Cuong Nhu - (Contributors: Elizabeth Roman and Robert First)

Summary:
Cuong Nhu is another eclectic, fairly new martial art, founded in 1965 by Master Ngo Dong in Vietnam.  The first US school opened in Gainesville FL in 1971.  Cuong Nhu is an integrated martial art blending hard aspects ("cuong" in Vietnamese) from Shotokan Karate, Wing Chun Gongfu, and American Boxing, with influences from the soft ("nhu" in Vietnamese) arts of Judo, Aikido, and Taiji, in addition to Vovinam, a Vietnamese martial art using both hard and soft techniques. In keeping with its inclusive nature, Cuong Nhu instruction extends beyond the traditionally martial to public speaking, poetry, paintint, and philosophy.  There is a strong emphasis on developing self control, modesty, and a non-defeatist attitude.

Beginning students focus on the hard, linear arts, mostly modified Shotokan Karate techniques and katas.  Experienced students add movements from more advanced softer, circular arts such as Aikido and Taiji.  All levels get some exposure to the entire range of styles.
Training emphasizes moral and philosophical development, and students discuss the "Code of Ethics" and selections from Cuong Nhu philosophy
in class. As with other styles, belt color indicates rank as certified by regional testing.