Pigua Zhang, also written as Pi Kua Chang, is a Northern Chinese martial arts style that originated in Cang Zhou, the famous martial arts region of Hebei Province. The name literally means Split-Deflect Palm but can also be translated as Axe-Hitch Palm. The style is also known as Pigua Quan (Split-Deflect Boxing). The characteristics of Pigua Zhang are wide sweeping, swinging, and chopping…
The Traditional Taiji Quan forms, or routines, are lengthy. Not only do they require considerable time to learn and memorize, but they also need far more time to refine. Since the 1930s, masters saw the need for condensing the forms to make them available to the public. This was achieved by eliminating repetitive movements. Perhaps…
There are two types of Qigong, namely Dong Qigong (Dynamic Qigong) and Jing Qigong (Static Qigong). Each type has a number of methods. A common Static Qigong is Zhan Zhuang Gong, which is translated as Standing Pile Skill. What is Zhan Zhuang Gong? Zhan means to Stand, Zhuang means Pile or Post, and Gong means…
There is saying in China “Ren Lao Xian Lao Tui,” which means that people age first in their legs. Evermore, people lead sedentary lives with prolonged seating and little or no exercise. This is especially true for middle-aged and elderly people. Studies have shown that loss of muscle strength in the legs results in declining…
I recall meeting Grandmaster William C.C. Chen (Chen Chi-Cheng) for the first time more than 40 years ago. In our first meeting he asked that I call him “William.” I was taken aback by such humility, but I have always addressed him as “Master Chen” out of the respect that I have for him. There…
The Chinese Martial Arts Center is a traditional Wushu Guan (武術館) (Kwoon in Cantonese), or martial arts training hall, which has a rich history that is governed by strict adherence to etiquette known as Wude, and the observation of rules and regulations. The Guan is the place where Kung Fu, or Gong Fu, is on…
Chinese Martial arts have a rich history that spans millennia. Many different Gong Fu styles have developed over this time as well as a countless variety of weapons. In ancient times, proficiency with weapons was necessary as one did not go into battle barehanded. In time, many weapons that were once used on the battlefield…
The art of Taiji Quan is intricate and sublime. Practice is governed by many principles, which for a beginner can be overwhelming. Having a place to start from, where you can build your foundation and increase your understanding will help keep you interested in Taiji practice. Following are Four Key Words that will build your…
There are many types of Qigong, also written as Qi Gong or Chi Kung. Some types require bodily movements and others are static. Regardless of method, all Qigong practice incorporates breathing techniques. What are Breathing Methods in Qigong? There are three types of breathing methods in Qigong: Natural Breathing, Abdominal Breathing, and Reverse Breathing. Since…
Chinese martial arts have had a strong influence on the development of other Asian fighting arts. Ancient China was the cradle of Asian culture, and many of its neighbors either paid tribute or were vassal states. Daoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, the various arts and crafts, calligraphy, sword making, and martial arts all found their way to…
