Lau Gar Keun is a Southern, hard, external style, derived from a form of boxing practised at the Kuei Ling Temple in the Kong Sai Province of West China. The fighting techniques are based upon the movements of the five Shao-ling Animals: Dragon, Tiger, Snake, Leopard and Crane. The Buddist philosophical concepts of change and emptiness are also of particular importance.

Lau Gar therefore specialises in short fist techniques delivered form a firm posture. However, training also includes a number of important kicking techniques. Weapons also play an important part for senior grades, and Lau Gar excels in stickwork. Other weapons include broadsword, butterfly knifes, trident and bamboo spear.

As with all Shao-lin derived styles, Lau Gar has a significant internal aspect with soft techniques. These require much more training to develop since their power lies outside of the obvious, external type. Although there is emphasis on development of the body, development of mind and spirit are also important.

The classes at Blackburn and Keighley are taught by Sifu David Eccles, a 4th degree Black Sash and Lau Gar Guardian who has been training in Lau Gar for some 20years.