Kung Fu

martial artist:
Kung Fu instructor Patrick Writer demonstrates a kick during his class at the Anderson Community Center on Thursday.

Kung Fu isn't about aggression or hurting people, it's about being able to defend yourself in dangerous situations and following a moral code, says young Kung Fu instructor Patrick Writer.

"Our Kung Fu is strictly defense," said Writer. "It's not like you go out and beat someone up. We are taught that fighting is a last resort. If you are really in danger, then you fight."

The 16-year-old instructor has been studying Kung Fu for more than three years.

"I really love it, and my teacher has taught me how to become a teacher for this art," Writer explained.

Writer teaches two separate classes at the Anderson Community Center on Thursdays. He teaches a class for younger children early in the evening, which involves games and activities. Then he designs a more rigorous course for his older students, whom he said can learn at a faster pace. Writer also teaches Kung Fu at Redding Martial Arts Center.

"During my class, I teach the kids courage, integrity, moral code. They also get physically fit," he said.

Learning the basics of Kung Fu can help athletes in any sport, Writer said. Kung Fu especially helps to improve eye-hand coordination.

The instructor said he wants to pass on his knowledge to his students, but he also wants them to enjoy themselves as they learn.

"I want them to have fun and know how to protect themselves," Writer said.

"I'm all about having fun. So when I teach, even though it's a really important subject, they can have fun while I teach it," he said.