First of all, just pursuing instruction in Kung Fu is like seeking instruction in "North American sports". Kung Fu represents the very broad world of Chinese martial arts and these arts can take the form of internal or external training or both. A familiar example of internal Kung Fu training is the practice of T'ai Chi. Internal martial arts represent training to develop your chi, the internal life-force or energy. In the Japanese martial arts this is referred to as ki. Breathing techniques are studied as well as the weak points within the body which, when applied in a physical sense, can inflict severe damage or death to an attacker. For the most part, however, schools (such as T'ai Chi) stress the holistic benefits of the art. For children, in particular, this can train discipline and self-control. These elements, however, are typically combined with external training since children are less likely to train exclusively for internal benefit.

External principles of Kung Fu are often demonstrated by Shaolin monks and its prime focus is to develop a being who can withstand physical attacks and unleash great power. Conditioning the body for such abuse is seen by many as abuse itself. Needless to say, this form of training is not for everybody, however, Kung Fu clubs, typically, do not practice to this level of physical conditioning.

Many forms of Kung Fu are available for study and the focus of a certain style has much to do with Chinese history and geography. For example, Northern Chinese styles (eg. Praying Mantis, eagle claw, pa kwa, Chang chuan, hsing-i, monkey style) make greater use of kicks and footwork. The Northern styles take on a "softer" approach to training (Refer to our section on Hard versus Soft martial arts). Southern Chinese styles of Kung Fu (eg. Choy-Li-Fut, Hung Gar, Wing Chun, Crane style) take a approach to training and, therefore, stress strength and power. Stances are also more static yet powerful.

Kung Fu has taken on a modern day name of Wushu. Wushu training is, typically, very acrobatic and flashy. It is, for the most part, a martial sport and presents an excellent alternative for very active children who want a taste of the acrobatics which Wushu offers.