Bajiquan & Piguazhang - Foundational Training Methods

[Xue Sheng]

Bajiquan (八極拳) - Eight Extremes Fist

Piguaquan, aka Piguazhang (劈掛拳) - Chop-Hitch Fist, Axe-hitch boxing

PART I : Foundational Training Methods

PART II : Foundational Training Methods

The art of traditional Chinese Wushu (martial arts) appears to becoming rapidly delegated to the archives of China past. As Qigong (energy work) and contemporary wushu gain footing in the literally global collective fantasies of video games, movies, and comics, the identity of traditional wushu is often blurred to the point of extinction. Therefore, preservation of the traditional art is of dire necessity for its long term viability and survival. One possible strategy for preserving and strengthening the identity of traditional wushu is to make public its foundational training methods.

In this article, the bajiquan/piguazhang northern Chinese system from the Li Shuwen and Liu Yunqiao lineage is made public. This system was employed extensively in the training of the bodyguards of Chiang Kai-shek, Mao Zedong and the last emperor, Pu Yi.

Part I of this two-part series illustrates how basic horse stance training is elaborated into power development and fighting techniques. The importance of structural development is further highlighted. Contrary to popular belief, basic training is not simply holding a horse stance for lengthy periods of time. Variations and movements of this simple posture can develop conditioning, fighting techniques and power in a relatively short time.