History of the IGFLF

Introduction

The IGFLF was founded by a coalition of prominent Chinese martial arts leaders from several countries. Its development has received unprecedented support from local, national and international organizations. The IGFLF is the first organization to develop an operational structure to conduct Gung Fu LeiTai competitions and activities for Amateurs and Professionals in the United States and Internationally.

 

What is LeiTai?

The words LeiTai simply mean "great platform," however, the significance of the LeiTai is more than just a platform. The LeiTai was a formal place for martial artists of ancient China to perform their demonstrations and duels during feudal times. Originally, The LeiTai was a 24ft. x 24ft. platform which stood 13ft. high upon pillars. To compete, one had to climb the great platform without the assistance of a ladder. As time went on the height of the platform was reduced from 13ft. to 10ft., to 8ft., to 6ft., and now, in modern times, it is 3ft. in height. The platform is similar to a boxing ring but without the advantage of having any ropes and opponents are allowed to throw each other off the platform.

There are many, many stories about challenges made on the LeiTai. Some fathers were even looking for a husband for their unwed daughters. There are even tales of unmarried, female Sifus (teachers) challenging candidates, one after another, who wished to wed her. Of course, the best or the winner became her husband.

One of the most renowned Gung Fu Sifus, Fok Yuen Karp, set up a LeiTai to challenge the International Martial Arts heroes at Cheung's Garden in Shanghai. In contrast to the traditional height of LeiTai rings, Fok's ring was only 4 1/2ft. It was 1/3 or 1/2 the traditional height! This could have been a major factor in what led to the modern day 3ft. height.

Today the LeiTai exists around the world for martial artists to test their skills, in sporting combat, that is no different than boxing, judo or wrestling.