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Kung fu and wushu are popular terms that have become synonymous with Chinese martial arts. The origins of Chinese martial arts can be traced to self-defense needs, hunting activities, and military training in ancient China. Hand to hand combat and weapons practice were important components in the training of Chinese soldiers. It reigns as one of the most traditional and popular national sports in China, practiced by the young and old alike. Eventually, Chinese martial arts have developed into an important element of Chinese culture.

It includes hundreds of different styles and is undoubtedly the most versatile martial art in the world. Some of the Chinese martial arts styles still practiced today are in the Kung Fu family and include Bagua, Drunken Boxing, Eagle Claw, Lau Gar, Monkey, Praying Mantis, White Crane, and Tai Chi Chuan, etc. Some styles are copied from the movements of animals, while others are inspired by Chinese philosophical thoughts, myths, and legends.

	For girls, practising Martial Arts can be used for fitness and self-defence.

Chinese martial arts can be classified in two major categories. They are External (soft) and Internal (hard). Sometimes, they are divided by location, Northern & Southern. Each category is distinct in style and technique. Apart from general classification, modern contests or performances are divided into six categories. These are empty-handed forms, weapon forms, choreographed forms, group practice, sparring competition, and power demonstration. Four general steps can describe all the various techniques of these arts; kicking, throwing, striking and controlling.

As forms have grown in complexity and quantity over the years, the emphasis of modern martial arts has shifted from combat to performance. It is practiced for improving health, self-defense skills, mental discipline, or recreational pursuit. The styles primarily aimed at exhibition and competition often include more acrobatic jumps and movements added for enhanced visual effect compared to the traditional styles.

In modern times, Chinese martial arts have spawned the genre of cinema known as "Kung Fu movies". The films of Bruce Lee were instrumental in the initial burst of Chinese martial arts' popularity in the West in the 1970s. Martial artists and actors such as Jet Li and Jackie Chan have continued the appeal of movies of this genre.