Kung Fu is a term to describe this martial art as of Chinese origin. Southern styles of kung - fu were comprised of low stances, kicks, and strong hand techniques. This was so because the population that practiced southern - style kung - fu was shorter and stockier than the Northern (Mandarin) population. On the other hand, Northern style Kung - Fu is comprised of more difficult and stylish patterns with acrobatic legwork. This was so because it was presumed to be much colder in the North therefor much hand movement was restricted by the thicker robes that were worn and the terrain enforced the development of stronger legs.