In this premiere episode of Mantis Chronicles, we explore the often-overlooked world of Daitang Quan, a traditional Chinese ground fighting method embedded in the roots of praying mantis kung fu. Whether you're a martial artist or just curious about the deeper layers of kung fu, this episode breaks down the historical, technical, and philosophical aspects of ground combat in Chinese martial arts. We unpack how Daitang quan parallels systems like Brazilian jiu-jitsu, catch wrestling, and sambo, and why it faded from mainstream kung fu instruction. You'll hear reflections on learning from Sifu Raymond Fogg and peers who emphasized these lost techniques, and how modern influences like Hawaiian Kempo and MMA helped revive and reinterpret them. This episode highlights the importance of training for real-world scenarios—including how fighters end up on the ground unexpectedly—and why stand-up-only practitioners often find themselves unprepared. From rolling, sweeping, and kicking from the ground to integrating striking and grappling transitions, we dive deep into the "hidden ground game" of kung fu. Tune in and discover how traditional martial arts still have secrets waiting to be unlocked—if you're willing to go to the ground.