BaGua Zhang Introduction

Baguazhang, compared with other systems of martial arts like Shaolin and Wudang, is a young art. It only came into being in the mid 19th century and was developed by a Master little known even in his own time. Yet, Baguazhang has developed quickly. It is now an internationally known system of martial arts and is learnt and practiced by people of all ages and races.

 

The beauty of Baguazhang lies in its continuous use of the hands and palms rather than the use of fierce punching fists. It moves in circles by using a unique movement of walking steps called “Tangnibu” (趟泥步) – literally translated as Mud Wading Steps. This means to walk by sliding each step a bit as soon as the foot touches ground as if to test that it is touching firm ground. Walk along the circumference of an imaginary circle with the inner foot (in this direction, the left foot) pointing forward while the outer foot (i.e. the right foot)pointing slightly inward.

The motion of completing a circle in eight steps brings out the symbolism of the Trigrams –the ancient symbol of Bagua from time immemorial. Another characteristic is that a series of routines or movements may be practiced independently as separate routines or may be linked into one single continuous routine producing Baguazhang’s distinctively beautiful and unique form of martial art system. 

 

From these basics come the descriptive terms of “The Eight Trigrams”, “moving smoothly and elegantly like a body swimming in water”, ”rings linking up like a chain” and “palms” and the routine is beautifully named as “The Bagua Swimming Body Motion Linking Palms”.

When stretching out the arms, one arm is put forward at full length, and the other stretches half way behind the other one defending the other arm from the rear. The fingers are to point upward and to bend slightly with the thumb spreading out far from the other four. At the same time the palm is to face outward in a concave form making the back of the palm curved like a roof tile and the palm facing outward. This posture of the hands enables the palms to strike out with force. This posture is known as the “Dragon Claw Palm” which is a typical palm posture of Cheng Style Bagua Zhang.

 

As a form and system of martial arts, Baguazhang may be practiced in solo, in pairs and with weapons such as sword, saber and staff. Yet, complementing its martial aspect, it is also a form of gymnastic exercise which, when practiced properly, brings benefits to those who practice it, bringing good health to both body and mind.