About Cuong Nhu
Cuong Nhu (literally meaning “Hard Soft”) is a Vietnamese martial art that aims to train the mind, body, and spirit.
It draws aspects from 7 different martial arts: Shotokan Karate, Aikido, Judo, Wing Chun, Vovinam, Tai Chi Chan, and Western Boxing.
Cuong Nhu was founded in 1965 in Vietnam by O’ Sensei Dong and was brought to Gainesville, FL – the first dojo in the United States!
The curriculum in Cuong Nhu expands to cover a diverse set of skills. Some areas that we commonly work on include (but is not limited to): kata (forms), sparring, weapons (tambo, bo, knife, etc.), combinations, judo throws, and self-defense escapes. As Cuong Nhu literally means "Hard Soft", we spend time focusing on both hard and soft techniques used in different situations. Emphasis is also placed on the style's philosophies as it helps us face the correct mindset to strive and improve as individuals, and as martial artists.
As a club, our members come from all sorts of cultural backgrounds and levels of experiences, whether this was our first exposure in martial arts or we've attained high ranks in other styles. Members also range from first-years to professors and alumni. Regardless, we all come together over our love of the style and enjoy having fun while we train. Outside of practices, we regularly volunteer to help the community around us and hold casual events to bond as a club. We also travel to attend regional tests and the annual international training camp in North Carolina.
Curious to learn more? Explore the official Cuong Nhu website here.