About_Shaolin_Duanwei_of_EPOS
Shaolin Duanwei Evaluation & Certification System
The Shaolin Duanwei Evaluation and Certification System is the official framework for recognizing and certifying skill levels in Shaolin Kung Fu in Greece. It has been designed and implemented by the Hellenic Shaolin Cultural Organization (E.P.O.S.), with the primary goal of preserving the authenticity and promoting the tradition of Shaolin Kung Fu nationwide.
🏛️ Background & Purpose
Established in 2011 by Shi Yan Zhuo, officially recognized Greek Master of the 34th Generation of the Songshan Shaolin Monastery, the system operates under the supervision of the Shaolin Monastery in China.
Its objectives include:
Promoting the development of authentic Shaolin martial arts in Greece.
Enhancing both the technical and theoretical knowledge of practitioners.
Establishing a consistent and reliable evaluation standard nationwide.
📊 Structure of the Duanwei System
The system is divided into five main levels, based on the age, experience, and progression of each practitioner:
Pre-Duanwei
For beginners aged 5 and above with at least 6 months of training.
Primary Duanwei
Levels 1 to 3 – For practitioners aged 9 and above with at least 1.5 years of experience.
Middle Duanwei
Levels 1 and 2 – For practitioners aged 13 and above, holding the 3rd Primary Duan for at least 1 year.
Senior Duanwei
Levels 3 and 4 – For practitioners aged 20 and above, holding the 2nd Middle Duan for at least 4 years.
Advanced Duanwei
Levels 5 and 6 – For practitioners aged 35 and above, holding the 4th Senior Duan for at least 5 years.
Honorary Duanwei:
Awarded to distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Shaolin Kung Fu.
🎯 Evaluation Criteria
Evaluation is based on clearly defined and multidimensional criteria:
Technical Skills: Execution of hand and weapon forms.
Theoretical Knowledge: Understanding of Shaolin philosophy, history, and core principles.
Ethics & Discipline: Adherence to moral values, respect for teachers, and commitment to tradition.
Teaching Ability: Assessed at higher levels for the ability to instruct and guide others.
All evaluations are conducted by certified high-level Duanwei panels and are approved by the Hellenic Shaolin Cultural Organization.
🧭 Importance & Benefits of the System
✅ Preservation of Tradition: Ensures the continuation of authentic Shaolin instruction.
✅ Official Certification: Recognizes the skill levels of practitioners through formal accreditation.
✅ Guided Progression: Provides a clear pathway for student and teacher development.
✅ Community Strengthening: Fosters collaboration and unity among schools and practitioners.
✅ International Recognition: Enhances the global recognition of Greek Shaolin institutions.
✅ Educational Standards: Establishes pedagogical benchmarks for teaching and assessment.