Kung Fu instructor Faraz Pourreza-Jorshari is continuing to expand his horizons by bringing his skills to a second venue in Bermuda.

Already established at Marsden Church in Smiths on Monday and Thursday evenings, Eight Winds Kung Fu now holds Monday classes at Tree House in the City of Hamilton with sessions open to anyone aged 13 and over. All are welcomed regardless of experience levels, fitness backgrounds and genders, with the first session available at no cost.

Pourreza-Jorshari is a third-degree black belt in Ba Feng Quan and studied the martial art in London for more than two decades before moving to Bermuda, where he has built a dedicated following.

“Eight Winds Kung Fu (Ba Feng Quan) was originally established in London,” he said.

“The Bermuda school was founded following my relocation from the UK after more than 20 years of training under Sifu Leppard, the school’s chief Instructor.

“After arriving in Bermuda, I encountered strong local interest in learning Kung Fu and began informal training sessions with a small group at the Arboretum. Following a year of regular evening training in the park, it became clear that there was both commitment and momentum and at that point I decided to formally establish the school.”

As with most martial arts Ba Feng Quan is steeped in ancient philosophy but Pourreza-Jorshari is keen to explain how it can be adapted to modern times.

The name Ba Feng Quan literally translates to “Eight Winds Fist”., he said.

“It reflects both the dynamic, multidirectional nature of the art and a deeper philosophical concept drawn from traditional teachings. It also reflects the way martial knowledge travels across regions and generations, carried from teacher to teacher much like the wind itself, while the core principles of the art remain unchanged.

“In addition, it references the Buddhist concept of the “eight worldly winds” — the external forces that influence human behaviour. These include the pursuit of pleasure, wealth, recognition, and status, as well as the fear of discomfort, financial loss, criticism, and damage to one’s reputation. The aim of training is to recognise these forces without allowing them to control you.

“The school prioritises structure, depth and inclusivity, deliberately fostering an environment free from ego or machismo.”

The organisation is eager to attract new members with a focus on learning and support rather than competition.

“Training is conducted in a friendly, supportive, and structured environment,” Pourreza-Jorshari said.

“While technical development is important, equal emphasis is placed on respect, self-awareness, and personal growth. Beginners are encouraged to progress at their own pace and to view martial arts as a long-term practice rather than a quick result.

“Classes typically begin with a structured warm-up to prepare both body and mind. Training then progresses through fundamental movements, striking drills, paired applications, and classical forms. As students advance, additional elements such as qigong breathing, weapons training, and controlled sparring are introduced.

“We integrate modern fitness and conditioning methods — particularly those focused on injury prevention and performance optimisation — within a traditional kung fu framework. This ensures training remains historically grounded while being effective for real-world self-defence and long-term physical health.

But martial arts does not only focus on the practical aspect with values and mutual respect a crucial facet of the sport.

“Core values include respect for oneself and others, self-awareness, discipline, calm confidence and the ability to respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally under pressure,” Pourreza-Jorshari said.

“Through practices such as qigong, training cultivates centreness and mindfulness. This helps individuals manage stress, improve focus and develop a grounded confidence that extends well beyond the training hall.

“While formal testimonials are not yet published, social media highlights clear progress among students. Personally, I have observed a noticeable deepening of combat understanding and mental resilience in those training consistently.

“But discipline develops naturally through consistent practice, respect for the art, and shared accountability among students. The goal is to temper unhealthy ego while reinforcing structured learning and personal responsibility.”

With a clear pathway for progression, Ba Feng Quan offers students the chance for continual growth.

“Students progress from white belt through coloured belts — yellow, green, blue, and brown — before first-degree black belt,” Pourreza-Jorshari said.

“Grading is based on demonstrated effort, understanding, and competence rather than time served. Planned activities include regular grading examinations and Bermuda hosting an international Eight Winds training camp this summer, offering an intensive week of training for members of all experience levels.”