Baguazhang facts for kids
Sun Lu-t'ang circle-walking
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| Also known as | Bāguà quăn, Bāguà zhăng, Pakua chang, Pa-kua chang |
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| Hardness | Internal (nèijiā) |
| Country of origin |  China |
| Creator | Dong Haichuan 董海川 (attributed) |
| Olympic sport | No |
Bāguàzhǎng (say "Bah-gwah-jong") is a cool and powerful Chinese martial art. It is known for its unique way of moving, especially walking in a circle. Baguazhang is one of the three main "internal" styles of martial arts. This means it focuses on inner strength and energy, not just muscle power.
The name Bāguà zhǎng means "eight trigram palm." This name comes from the trigrams found in the Yijing. The Yijing is an ancient Chinese book of wisdom. It uses eight special symbols, called trigrams, to explain how things change in the world. Baguazhang uses these ideas to guide its movements and fighting techniques.
Contents
What is Baguazhang?
Baguazhang is a martial art that uses lots of circular movements. Imagine walking in a circle while practicing different hand and body forms. This helps practitioners move smoothly and change direction quickly. It also helps them get close to an opponent or move away from danger.
The Eight Trigrams Connection
The "eight trigrams" are symbols from the I Ching. Each trigram represents something in nature, like heaven, earth, wind, or fire. In Baguazhang, these trigrams are like guiding principles. They help shape the different ways you can move and fight. For example, some movements might be like strong wind, while others are as steady as a mountain.
Who Created Baguazhang?
Many people believe that a man named Dong Haichuan created Baguazhang. He lived in China during the 1800s. Dong Haichuan was known for his amazing martial arts skills. He taught many students, and they helped spread Baguazhang across China.
How Baguazhang is Practiced
Baguazhang training involves several key parts. These help students become strong and skilled.
Circle Walking
The most famous part of Baguazhang is "circle walking." Students walk around a circle, often holding different hand positions. This practice helps improve balance, focus, and leg strength. It also teaches you how to move around an opponent.
Forms and Techniques
Baguazhang has many different "forms." These are like a series of planned movements that you practice alone. They include various hand strikes, kicks, and throws. Practicing forms helps you learn the techniques and improve your body control. The "palm" is very important in Baguazhang, as many techniques use open-hand strikes.
Internal Power
Like other "internal" martial arts, Baguazhang focuses on developing inner energy, often called qi (say "chee"). This is done through special breathing exercises and slow, flowing movements. Developing qi is believed to make your movements more powerful and your body healthier.
Images for kids
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Internalist Zhang Zhaodong, a famous Baguazhang master.
See also
In Spanish: Pa kua chang para niños
