Different Kinds of Kungfu

There are several ways to categorise the different types of martial arts in China. There a Northern Styles, Southern Styles, animal styles, Buddhist styles, Daoist styles, Muslim styles, Tibetan styles, Emei Mountain styles, Wudang Mountain styles, clan styles, and more.

One of the common distinctions that is often made is the one between “External Styles” (Waijia) and “Internal Styles.” (Neijia)

Neijiaquan literally means “internal family fist” and has two different meanings. It can refer to a specific style. But the term is usually used in a generic sense to refer to several different styles that gained fame in Beijing during the late Qing Dynasty.

In the Imperial palace during the 1800’s there were a number of elite martial artists who were hired to teach royalty, imperial guards, and the military. These great martial artists are known to have shared information and students and to have found a great deal of common ground. This is to be expected, just as mountain climbers who start at different points find more common ground with each other as they reach the top.

Such was the case with masters of styles like Xingyiquan, Baguazhang, Taijiquan, and Bajiquan, who each recognised familiar fundamental principles in the others. They also saw that what they taught was different from the average martial artist. They referred to the styles that they practised as being of the “Internal Family.” This was as much a recognition of elitism as much as a recognition of the subtle internal principles that these styles had in common. They did not know that there was another style on Wudang Mountain that was also called Neijiaquan, and this has led to a fair amount of confusion, with many people thinking that the internal styles of Beijing came from Wudang.

There are several styles from China and elsewhere which are now referred to as internal styles. These are generally defined as styles which emphasise the cultivation of “internal power.” This internal power can refer to a profound co-ordination of mind, body and spirit. But it can also mean a subtle alignment of connective tissue and stabiliser muscles, co-ordinated with deep awareness and a highly developed strategy of using softness and will to conquer brute force and aggression.

Neijiaquan was first mentioned as the name of a Daoist martial art that legend attributes to a mythical hermit named Zhang Sanfeng. A famous master of this style was Zhang Sonxi fo the Qing Dynasty, and the style is often called Songxi Neijiaquan to distinguish it from the more generic term Neijiaquan.

Styles of Wushu

The hundreds of different styles and schools of Chinese martial arts 中國武術 are collectively called Kung Fu 功夫, Wushu 武術, Kuoshu 國術, or Ch'uan Fa 拳法.

There are several ways to categorise the different types of martial arts in China. There are northern styles, southern styles, animal styles Buddhist styles, Daoist styles, Muslim styles, Tibetan styles, Emei Mountain Styles, Wudang styles, Shaolin styles, internal styles, and external styles....
Any martial art might fit into more than one of these categories. And all share some kind of common history. (Martial arts thrive on innovation. So, there is always a lot of research and development going on, with styles mutually influencing each other over thousands of years.

With the practical considerations of combat being so important to the ancient masters, all styles required the cultivation of power, speed, and technique. They also shared the need to protect vulnerable areas while maintaining offensive opportunities. Each of these requirements needed to be developed without compromising the others. One must not, for example develop speed at the expense of the proper alignment needed for power, and power must not interfere with the smooth changes needed to execute proper technique.

With all these common requirements, and the common weapon (the human body) it is not surprising that there are so many similarities between the different styles. Another unifying factor was the function of major learning centres such as Shaolin, Wudang, and Emei, where martial artists, warriors, healers, and clergy would often share knowledge and further develop their arts.

Damo 達摩(达摩)

Also known as Bodhidharma (?- 536CE), he was the 28th successor of Buddhism and the first patriarch of Chan (Zen). He taught exercises that strongly influenced what was to become Shaolin Kung fu.

History is written by those who can write. So it is not surprising that there is little known about martial arts of more than 2 millennia ago. There were indubitably many different martial arts that predated literacy, simply due to the need for clans and families to defend themselves. But all we really know about those arts comes carvings of wrestlers. But the grand systematic martial systems that we think of today were not seen until shortly after Damo.

Damo is said to have authored two exercise manuals, the Yijinjing易筋經(经) (Muscle/Tendon Changing Classic), and the Xiangsuijing洗髓經(经) (Marrow/Brain Washing Classic). The Shaolin monks later found these exercises to strengthen their bodies and spirits. They soon found that the training not only made them healthier, but it also made them stronger. Over the years, visiting martial artists and the monks combined this training with martial training and became formidable fighters. The temple subsequently spawned or influenced many styles of wushu and qigong.

The Shaolin temple was not the only influence in the development of wushu in China. There were many folk styles, Daoist styles, military styles, and sports which developed in relative degrees of isolation.

Following is a list of some of the many styles of wushu.

Bafaquan 八法拳 (eight methods fist): developed by Li De Mao (李德茂) during the Qing dynasty. He combined the techniques of Fanziquan (翻子), Paochui (炮捶), Tantui (弹腿), Tongbeiquan (劈挂) and Xingyiquan (形意) into a new style based on eight methods 八法 - outer trap, inner trap and stab, flick, support, shake, chop and reel. lan 攔 (block)、na拿(capture)、zha 扎 (pierce)、beng 崩 (burst)、tuo 托 (support)、dou 抖 (shake)、pi 劈 (split)、chan 纏 (reel).

Baguazhang 八卦掌 (Eight Trigrams Palm): An internal style of wushu that originated from Emei. This style was made famous by Dong Haichuan (1813-1882) the personal bodyguard to the Empress Dowager of the late Qing Dynasty. There are many styles of baguazhang, thanks in no small part to the fact that Dong taught mostly experienced masters whose own styles influenced their baguazhang. There are also other styles of baguazhang that originated from Emei.

Baihequan 百鶴拳 (White Crane Fist): A southern style characterised by light and agile movements, quick hand changes, waist movement, and a whip-like power.

Baimeiquan 白眉拳 (white eyebrow style): Popular in Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Southeast Asia. This style is said to have been created by Baimei, a legendary Daoist priest.

Bajiquan 八極拳 (World's end style or Eight extremities style): Considered an internal style and characterised by explosive power, stomping feet, and close range applications, this style is said to have been passed down to Wu Zhong (吳鐘) by a wandering Daoist.

Beipai 北派 (northern styles/factions): a general term referring to styles that developed north of the Yangtze River, as opposed to nanquan南拳 (southern styles)

Benglong Wushu 崩龍武術 also known as Zuoquan 左拳(left fist): a general term referring to styles developed by the Deang 德昂族 people of Yunnan Province.

Boziquan 跛子拳(lame person style): Created by Jingyun (凈雲禪師)this 80 movement routine imitates an injured or handicapped person.

Cailifoquan 蔡李佛拳: a southern style created by Chen Gen and based on fojiaquan佛家拳, liquan李拳, and caiquan蔡拳. This style is know for the great number of routines that it contains.

Caiquan 蔡拳: Created by two monks from Fujian Shaolin Temple this style is one of the most influential southern styles.

Canbimen 蠶閉門, 蠶門, 蠶絲門 (silk reeling style):From Jiangxi Province, this style focuses on coiling and neutralising like a silkworm making a cocoon.

Canzhou Wushu 滄洲武術: A general term referring to the styles of the Cangzhou area in Hebei Province.

Changquan 長拳(s长拳) (Long Fist) A general term referring to the many Northern Style Wushu including: Chaquan, Huaquan, Paoquan, Hongquan, Liuhequan, Yanqingquan, etc. These styles are usually characterised by fast, agile movements that are long, open, and extended. They are also known for high jumps and aerial kicks.

Chaquan 查拳: A major Wushu style developed by the Hui people. One of the primary requirements at the Central Guoshu Institute.

Choy Lay Fut see Cailifoquan

Chuanquan 船拳 (Boat Fist): A style, including many forms, that evolved in the Wuxing, Zhejiang Province, where competitions are often held on a platform set between two boats.

Chuojiao 戳腳 s戳脚 (Piercing Feet): A changquan style primarily using feet, attributed to the legendary Song Dynasty hero, Wu Song.

Dabeiquan 大悲拳 An internal style based on the teachings of the Buddhist Mantra Dabeizhou大悲咒 of Avalokitesvara 观世音菩萨. this style is said to have been developed by the monks at the Henan Shaolin Temple and Wutaishan during the Ming Dynasty.

Dachengquan 大成拳 (Great achievement style) aka Yiquan 意拳 (Intent/meaning Style). Created by Wang Xiang-zhai (1885-1963) based on the essential principles of internal styles, especially Xingyiquan. The name dachengquan was given to the style by other martial artist who recognised the distilled principles demonstrated by the founder.

Daopai 道派 (style of the way) A Shaolin style taught by a monk named Ruilong 瑞龍.

Diaojiaquan 刁家拳 (Diao family style). A style said to have originated in Jiangxi Province before spreading to Meixian and Xingning in Guangdong Province.

Dishuquanfa地術拳法 (s地术拳法) (Ground tactic fist method) a.k.a. Digongquan 地功拳 and Gouquan狗拳. There are more than ten known routines in this style, which is known for kicking from the ground and intentional falls and flips.

Ditangquan 地趟拳 (plowing earth style) A style dating back at least to the Ming Dynasty, using offensive ground fighting techniques.

Dumen杜門 (Du family style) From Chengdu, Sichuan, this style uses the Zhijiqishen 知機其神 philosophy from Yijing易經(s易经).

Dunhuangquan敦煌拳 A style based on the Dunhuang Bihua 敦煌壁畫 (frescos of the Dunhuang Grottos). The movements are performed in a slow graceful manner similar to taijiquan and contain defensive and offensive applications. Like taijiquan, this style is often practised for physical exercise, toning the body, weight loss, and illness prevention.

Eagle Claw Style see Yingzhuaquan

Eight Trigram Palm see Baguazhang

Emei Piercer see Emeici

Emei Shaolin wushu 峨嵋少林武術 The Shaolin Wushu of the Emei Mountains) Inherited from the Shaolin Temple, yet no longer taught in the Henan Shaolin Temple, this style includes both hard methods and intricate neutralizing. The routines use exclusively practical Sanshou applications. The known routines include: Tiangan , Qixing , Heihu , Tianhe , Feilong , and Bafa .

Emei Shierzhuang 峨嵋十二樁 (Emei Twelve Stakes) Indigenous to Emei, this style combines Daoist, Medical, and Buddhist philosophy with Qigong, and dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279).

Emei Wudang Neijiaquan 峨嵋武當內家拳 (Internal Wudang and Emei Style). Supposedly a version of Wudang Neijiaquan which was further developed at Emei.

Emei Wushu 峨嵋武術 A general term referring the more than 300 styles from the Emei Mountains. Emei Wushu along with Shaolin and Wudang are the three major Wushu groups in China. Emei is also known for a great many Buddhist and Daoist temples.

Fangmen 方門 (Fang Family Style) An Emei Style created by Fang Shunyi combining Shaolin with Xingyiquan and Xiao 肖 style.

Fanziquan 翻子拳 (Turning Body Fist) A form of Changquan, that was called Bashanfan during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Fanziquan routines are usually short and fast as a whip.

Fushi Wushu 傅氏武術 (Fu Zhensong Style Wushu) One of the "Five tigers that went south of the Yangtze River," Fu Zhensong was a native of Henan Province who learned under many famous masters. He absorbed the essence of the other styles and founded Fushi Wushu.

Great Accomplishment Fist see Dachengquan

Ground Style see Ditangquan

Hongmen 洪門 Attributed either to Emperor Zhao Taizu, whose face was always red, ,or to Zheng Chenggong, a defeated Ming General whose counterrevolutionary organisation was named Hongmen in honour of the Ming emperor, Hongwu . There are two distinct divisions - Northern and Southern.

Hongquan 紅拳 (Red Fist). A popular form of changquan that is popular in Shanxi and Sichuan. Said to date from the Yuan Dynasty.

Hongzhimen 鴻志門 Attributed to the Daoist, Hong Jun Laozu 鴻鈞老祖 and later combined with Zhi 志 style to become Hongzhimen. Known for its emphasis on Qigong training and for its open and extended movements.

Houquan 猴拳 (Monkey Style) also known as Dashengmen大聖門(Great Sage gate) Believed by some to be several thousand years old, this famous style was first recorded in the Ming Dynasty book, Jixiaoxinshu by Qi Jiguang. Mimicking the movements of a monkey.

Hsing Yi Chuan see Xingyiquan

Huakoumen 化口門 (disolving doorway style) An Emei style focusing on one handed applications and neutralization it follows the philosophy of Taiji, Wuxing, and Bagua.

Huanglinpai 黃林派 (Yellow Forest Style) An Emei Style attributed to a Daoist priest of the Wannian Temple during the reign of Yongzheng (1723-1735) The known barehanded routines include: Sipingquan , Dengzhuangquan , and three Hulongquan , a weapon routine known as Yanlindao , and a training method referred to as Meirenzhuang .

Huaquan 花拳 (Flower Fist) A short-range style Attributed to Gan Fengchi of the Qing Dynasty.

Huaquan 華拳 (Hua Mountain Fist) A form of changquan originating in Sandong during the Song Dynasty named either for the Hua mountains or the sanhua 三華 (three essences) - jing, qi, and shen.

Huatao Wuyi 花套武藝 (fireworks based on martial arts) A performance art derived from traditional Wushu. It is also referred to as Huaquan Xiutui 花拳繡腿 (flowery fist and embroidered feet.)

Huheshuanxingquan 虎鶴雙形拳 (Tiger and crane paired shape style) A southern style created during at the end of the Qing Dynasty, based Hongiaquan and Foquan , with the characteristics of the tiger and crane.

Huimen 慧門 (Wisdom gate) A style created by Song Luhua of Shandong and including meditation, visualization, and intention training. Characterised by small steps and lower stances. The known routines include: Yangjianquan , Nazhaquan , Hamaquan , Hudiequan , Shetouquan , and Rope Dart.

Hung Gar see Hongjiaquan

Huquan 虎拳 (Tiger Style). This routine mimics the characteristics of a tiger or leopard. There are many Huquan routines including: Huquan , Heihuquan , Huxingquan , Xingyi Hubaoquan, Menghu Xiashanquan , Ehuquan , Baihuquan , and Huzhuaquan .

Huxingquan (Tiger shape style) A Southern Styles style imitating the tiger’s characteristics. It focuses on short range applications emphasizing the strength of the fingers.

Internal Style see Neijiaquan

Jeet Kune Do see Jiequandao

Jianghequan 江河拳(River Style). It originated from Kaifeng in Henan Province. There are four known routines in this style.

Jiangxi Huimen 江西 會門 (Secret school of Jiangxi) An aggressive style created in the Jiangxi Province by Liu Jiangxi.

Jiequan 節拳(Sectional Fist) Based on Tantui, this style developed during the Qing Dynasty.

Jiequandao a.k.a. Jeet Kune Do 截拳道 (intercepting fist way) A new style created by Bruce Lee (1940-1973) who regarded Jiequandao less as a style than a philosophy and concept.

Jinbashou 緊八手(Tight Eight Hands) A popular style during the middle Qing Dynasty around the Hubei Province.

Jingpo Wushu 景頗武術 The Wushu developed by the ancient Jingpo tribe, who developed effective blade techniques still practised by their descendants and often seen during ethnic holiday celebrations.

Jinjiagong 金家功 (Jin family art) a.k.a Jinjiao Shiershi 金家十二式 (Jin Family twelve shapes) A style created during the reign of the Qing Emperor, Daoguang , (1823 - 1850) by a failed revolutionary named Ji Yiwang.

Karate-do 空手道 (empty hand way) originally called tangshoudao 唐手道 (China hand way): A Japanese system combining Chinese wushu with indigenous Okinawan martial arts.

Kejiaquan 客家拳 (Hakka Fist) A general term referring to Southern Styles practiced by the Kejia people, especially those Southern Styles of Guangdong.

Kexingzhang 克星拳 (unbeatable rival style) A wushu, qigong, energy healing technique, and probability prediction style.

Kongmenquan 孔門拳 (Confucius Style) Popular in Wuhan in Hubei, this style was created during the beginning of the Qing Dynasty.

Kunlunpai 昆侖派 (Kunlun Mountain Style) Attributed to the legendary Daoist, Tongtian and now existing in two branches—Eastern and Western Kunlunpai.

Lamapai 喇嘛派 A esoteric system developed Tibetan Lamas 西藏密宗喇嘛 in the 14th century. Based on the movements of a white crane and an ape.

Langzi Yanqingquan 浪子燕青拳 (Prodigal Yangqing Style) A an aggressive style characterised by many agile turning movements and high, medium, and low stances, and many hand techniques. Power is often generated from the shoulders and back. "Prodigal Yanqing" is the name of a character in THE WATER MARGIN 水滸傳 (s水浒传), one of the four great classic novels in Chinese Literature.

Lanshoumen 攔手門 (Intercepting Hand) A Shaolin Style with open and extended movements. The two distinct divisions are Hedongpai 河東派 (east of the Yellow River) and Hexipai 河西派 (west of the Yellow River).

Lianmenquan 聯門拳 (United Fist) A style from Sichuan Province.

Lianshouduanda 連手短打 (Continuous Hands and Short Strikes) A style from Cangzhou, Hebei. Also known as Gouguaizi 勾拐子 .

Liquan 李拳 (Li Family Fist) Created by a monk from Fujian Shaolin Temple, Li Ci, Liquan is now one of the popular Southern Styles in Guangdong.

Liuhebafa 六合八法 (Six harmonies Eight directions) a.k.a. shuiquan 水拳 (Water Boxing) a.k.a. Xinyi Liuhebafa 心意六合八法 (Heart intent / six harmonies Eight directions) An Internal Style attributed to Chen Bo 陳博 of Hua Shan during the Song Dynasty. Using power similar to Xingyiquan, stepping patterns of Baguazhang and neutralizing power like Taijiquan. Movements change from high to low and fast to slow resembling floating clouds and flowing water.

Liuhemen 六合門 (Six Harmony Style) Over 400 years old, this style contains more than eleven barehanded forms, nineteen weapons forms, three sparring forms, and several wushu qigong methods.

Liuhequan 六合拳 (Six Harmony Fist)

Liujiaquan 劉家拳 (Liu Family Fist) One of the popular Southern Styles in Guangdong.

Long Fist see Changquan

Longxingquan 龍形拳 (Dragon Style) This style, popular in Hong Kong and Fujian, employs the legendary characteristics of the dragon. It is popular in Hong Kong and Fujian Province.

Lulinpai 綠林派 (Forest Outlaw Style - literally "Green Forest Style"). Attributed to Liu Zhong, who failed in his attempt to assassinate the Qing Emperor Yongzheng (1723-1735)

Luohanquan 羅漢拳 (Arhat Fist) A well known Shaolin Style.

Luomen 羅門 (Luo Family Style) Attributed to General Luo Yi and his son General Luo Cheng at the beginning of the Tang Dynasty. Including two main branches - large frame old Luomen and small frame new Luomen - this style includes elements of both Northern and Southern Wushu.


Meihuaquan 梅花拳 (Plum Blossom Fist). A style of changquan created the beginning of the Qing Dynasty. Its training is often done on posts partially buried in the ground in the pattern of a plum blossom.

Meishiquan 梅氏拳 (Mei Style Style) Attributed to a nun who invented the style between at the end of the 19th century this style emphasises leg techniques.

Mianquan 綿拳 (Soft Fist) a.k.a Yanshou延手 (extended palm) A style that trains a high level of flexibility, referring to the characteristics of extending the arms during its applications.

Mianzhang 棉掌 (Cotton Palm) A style known for its use of palms. This style is also known for its spear techniques.

Miaoquan 苗拳 (Miao fist) The ethnic Miao people of Guanxi province trace this style to pre-dynastic China and a primordial combat style called Jiao Di (horn striking). Like many Southern styles of kungfu, this style is very powerful and has low, immovable stances. It also has powerful audible power generation.

Minghaiquan 明海拳 An Emei Style, named for the Shaolin monk who created this style when he combined Shaolin Wushu with Sichuan Wushu.

Mizongquan 迷蹤 (Lost Track Style) Made popular by Jet Li's movie "Fist of Legend"this is one of Shaolin's most popular and "advanced" styles. An aggressive style using deceptive footwork constant-changes.

Modern Wushu see Xiandai Wushu

Monkey Style see Houquan

Moquan 莫拳(Mo Family Fist) Created by a Zen Buddhist priest, of the Fujian Shaolin Temple, it is a popular Southern Style in Guangdong Province.

Mulanquan木蘭拳 (Lilly Mangolia style) A type of Huatao Wuyi created by Ying Meifeng of Shanghai. It is practised as an exercise combining Wushu with modern calisthenics.

Nanquan 南拳(Southern Style) A general term referring primarily to styles with their origin primarily south of the Yangtze River Including: Guangdong Nanquan : Hongjiaquan , Caiquan , Liquan , Moquan , Cailifoquan , Huheshuanxing , Xiaquan , Yongchunquan , Baimeiquan , Nanzhiquan , Ruquan , Fojiaquan , Diajiaquan , Zhujiajiao , Yuejiajiao , Zhongjiajiao , and Kunlunquan. Guangxi Nanquan : Zhoujiaquan , Tulongquan , Hongmen Fuhuquan , and Xiaocheda. Fujian Nanquan : Nanshaolin Wuxingquan including Dragon, Tiger, Leopard, Snake, and Crane; Wuzuquan , Luohanquan , Meihuazhuang , Lianchengquan , Diquanquan , Yongjiafa , Wumeiquan , Shiquan , Houquan , Yufa , Jifa , Rufa , and Fangwuji. Hunan Nanquan : Wujiaquan , Xuejiajiao, and Yuejiajiao. Hubei Nanquan : Hongmen , Kongmenquan , Yuemenquan , Yumenquan , Sunmenquan , Wujiayi , Naimen , Fomen , Yinxianmen , Shuihumen , Zhengmen , Yanmen , and Xiongmen .
Sichuan Nanquan : Cengmen , Yuemen , Zhaomen , Dumen , Hongmen , Huamen , Zimen , and Huimen .
Jiangxi Nanquan : Sanshiliulu Songjiangquan. Zhejiang Nanquan : Heihuquan , Jingangquan , Wenzhouquan , and Taizhaoquan. There are also Suzhou Nanquan , Wuxi Nanquan , Shanghai Difanquan , and Changzhouquan.
Together these Nanquan styles include more than one thousand barehanded and weapon routines.

Nanzhiquan 難枝拳 Named for the Fujian Shaolin monk who created it.

Neijiaquan 內家拳 (Internal Fist) Attributed to the legendary Daoist immortal, Zhang Sanfeng this style is known as Songxi Neijiaquan to distinguish it from the generic term Neijiaquan, referring to all Internal Style Wushu

Neijiaquan 內家拳 (Internal Fist) A generic term referring to all Internal Style Wushu such as Taijiquan, Xingyiquan, Baguazhang, and Liuhebafa. It is a term used in contrast with Waijiaquan , External Style.

Northern Style see Beipai

Pa Kua Chang see Baguazhang

Panpomen 盤破門 A style popular in the southern and eastern Sichuan, characterised by high stances, small hand movements, constant changes, quick low kicks, quick footwork.

Paochui 炮捶 (Cannon fist) (a.k.a. Sanhuang Paochui) The history of this changquan style has been traced back to the Song Mountain Shaolin Temple.

Piguaquan (Split and hitch style) (a.k.a. Tongbei Piquaquan) This style uses short and long range techniques and emphasises the turning of the waist and back, and the development of smooth and continuous attacks.

Praying Mantis Style see Tanglangquan

Qingchengbuqimen A style created during the 18th century and combining elements of Shaolin, Emei, and Wudang wushu. It is now popular in Sichuan, Shanxi, and Yunnan.

Qingchengpai (Qingchen Mountain Styles) A general term referring to the styles of the Qingcheng Mountains. They include: Qingcheng Hongquan , Liuhe Sanshou , Qingcheng Baguazhang , Gubajiquan , Xuanmen Jiushi , and Erlu Hongquan . The known weapon routines include: Qixingjian , Baxianjian , Qingchengjian , Zimugun , Daqinglongdao , and Qiankunquan . Training methods include: Jianshen Yanshougong and Liuhe Neigong .

Qinglongquan 青龍拳 (Green Dragon Fist) A style which emphasises palms and finger techniques and resembling the movements of a swimming dragon.

Renjiajiao (Ren Family Teaching) (aka Renmenquan). Developed by Ren Sizhen, a Qing officer from Sichuan, based on Sunzi’s Art of War, the Yijing, and several martial styles.

Sengmen (Monastery Style) One of the most famous Emei Styles, and focusing on Qinna and short range applications.

Shandongjiao (Shandong Teaching) Attributed to General Qin Shubao of the early Tang Dynasty (618-907).

Shaolin Huimen. Created by the Henan Shaolin priest, Huang Fazhuang .

Shaolin Wuquan Attributed to Yuan Dynasty (1260-1368) Shaolin master, Bai Yufeng, who based it on the movements of the dragon, tiger, leopard, snake, and crane.

Shaolin Wushu: A general term referring to all the styles of Wushu that can trace their origin back to the Song Mountain Shaolin Temple. It is one of the oldest and most influential martial arts systems in the world. While Damo (Bodhidharma) is generally credited with creating the first Shaolin martial arts, it is widely accepted that Shaolin wushu is the result of centuries of collaboration by martial artists who sought the spiritual sanctuary and erudition of the Shaolin Temple.

Shaolin Xingyi Liuhe (Shaolin Shape-Intent Six Harmony) A derivative of Shaolin Wushu that is practiced in Hunan, Jiangxi, and Sichuan Provinces. Based on the jumping, flying, nesting, and hunting characteristics of animals. It focuses on the unity of the internal jing , qi , and shen ; as well as, the unity of the external hands, eyes, and body movements. There are two known barehanded routines, one Lianhuanziwu Panlonggun weapon routine, and three training methods.

Shape and Intent Fist see Xingyiquan

Shenda (Spiritual Strike) A name that refers to a number of styles: Maoshan , Fo , Dao , and Qirijiao. Shenda is known for its involvement in the failed Boxer Rebellion. Shenda relies heavily on chanting to increase the ability and strength of its practitioners.

Shenmenquan An Emei Style also known as Jinjiaquan (Jin Family Fist).

Shequan (Snake Fist) Shequan routines are based on the movements of a snake. It is part of some Shaolin and Emei styles.

Sichuan Huimen A style which uses the Five Elements to name its routines. The keys to this style are: tun , tu , feng , hua , and tie.

Sichuan Lijiaquan (Li Family Style of Sichuan) A Sichuan style from Gaozui Mountain. Characterised by short routines with low stances.

Sichuan Ziranmen (Natural Style of Sichuan). Said to have been developed as a result of a family feud in the Sichuan Nanchong area.

Six Unities and Eight Principles see Liuhebafa

Songxi Neijiaquan see Neijiaquan


Southern Style see Nanquan

Sujiajiao (Su Family Teaching) A style was created by Su Caifeng during the Ming Dynasty.

Sunbinquan Attributed to Sun Bin, a decendant of Sunzi (author of the Art of War).

Sunmenquan (Sun Family Fist) An Emei style supposedly based on the Southern Shaolin of Fujian Province and created by Sun Chunan of Sichuan Province. This style mostly uses arm strikes and limited short range kicks.

Tae Kwon Do: A Korean martial art that combines Karate with native Korean martial arts. Tae Kwon Do became an Olympic Exhibition event in 1988 and officially became an Olympic medal event in the 2000 Olympics.

Tai Chi Chuan see Taijiquan

Taijiquan An Internal Style Wushu, also romanized as Tai Chi Chuan, and translated as the Grand Ultimate Fist. This is one of the most influential Wushu styles in the world today. There are participants of Taijiquan in over 100 nations throughout the world today. The five major traditional Taijiquan styles include: Chen Style , Yang Style , Wu Style , W’u Style also known as Hao Style , and Sun Style .

Taixuquan (Ultimate Void Fist) Created by Wu Rongyu during the Qing Dynasty and based on the Taixu, Taiji, Sancai, Sixiang, Wu-yun, Liuqi, Bagua, and Tuwen-luoshu philosophies.

Taizuquan (Grand Ancestor Fist) Said to have originated with Emperor Zhao Kuangyin of the Northern Song Dynasty.

Tanglangquan (Praying Mantis Style) A style based on the movements of the mantis.

Tangpingquan a.k.a. Tangpingqishi. A style of the ethnic Hui and popular in Shanxi and Henan Provinces. Archeological evidence shows that it at least as early as the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

Tantuimen (Spring Leg Style) A style of changquan popular with the ethnic Hui, and said to have originated in the Longtan Temple in Shandong or the Tan Family Village in Henan Province. This style is named for its emphasis on powerful, spring like kicks. Tan from Longtan and tui for its kicks.

Tongbei Piquanquan see Piquaquan

Tongbiquan (Connected Arm Fist). Based on the swinging arm movements of an ape, this style is attributed to the Taoist Baiyuan Daoren of Sichuan Emei Mountain during the Spring-Autumn and Warring Kingdom era (770-221 B.C.). Its movements resemble the swinging arms of the ape.

Tujiazu Wushu A general term referring to the Wushu developed by the enthic Tujiazu people between Hunan, Hubei, and Sichuan. These styles are known for close range combat abilities and the ability to engage in combat in narrow paths, and cliffs.

Wangshi Wushu the style of Wang Ziping and his daughter, Wang Jurong.

Wing Chun see Yongchunquan

Wudang Hongmenquan Known to have spread from Sichuan Province to Hubei Province and influenced by Wudang Wushu.

Wudang Wushu A general term referring to the primarily Daoist styles from the Wudang Mountains (Taiheshan).

Wudangmen (Wudang Gate) (a.k.a. Lipai Gongfu) Created during the Qing Dynasty by Li Ruidong, the director of training for the imperial guards, and a student of Chuojiao, Shaolin, Tantui, Xinyi, Bagua, and Wudang Jinchanpai Taijigong .

Wuji Xiaoyaopai (a.k.a. Shusan Wuji Xiaoyaopai). Xiaoyao implies the state of free expression that occers at highest level of an art. "Wuji" refers to the unrestricted nature of the style. Inspired by the Wuji and Xiaoyao styles of the Song Dynasty, this system was founded by Liang Shou-Yu and is based on his extensive Wushu background and experience in many Wushu styles.

Wujiaquan A type of nanquan from the Fujian Shaolin Temple.

Wumeipai Attributed to Wu Mei, the daughter of a Ming general, who sought refuge at the White Crane Shaolin Temple in Guangxi when the Qing took control.

Wushouquan (Five Handed Fist) A popular style of Qingdao City of Shandong Province, with power similar to xingyiquan, and with more emphasis on practical applications than forms.

Wushu The official term for Chinese martial arts. It is also a general term meaning martial arts.

Wuzuquan (Five Ancestor Fist) a.k.a. Wuzuheyangquan (Ngor Chor in Fujian) A type of nanquan popular in Southern China, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines.

Xiandai Wushu (Contemporary Wushu) (Modern Wushu) (Sports Performance Wushu)

Today, the wushu competitions include divisions for solo routines, weapon routines, choreographed two-person routine, and Sanshou. There are separate divisions for men and women.

Xiangmen (Xiang Family Style). A style with continuous close-range movements, created by a Qing Dynasty security guard.

Xianhumen An Emei style.

Xiaquan 俠拳 (chivalrous fist). An Emei style said to have been created by a Zen Buddhist priest named Li Huzi of Sichuan, who named the style Xiaquan, in honour of his teacher, Da Xia.

Xibei Difangquan Northeast Region Style, a.k.a. Lanzhoudifang Laobashi and Bamen. A composite style containing elements of Paoquan, Siquan, Jiuhuanzi, Tongbeiquan, and Fengshoubakuai.

Xiliangquan Said to have been created by General Ma Chao during the Three Kingdom era, to train his troops. This style was made famous in the Qing dynasty by Tang Dianxiang, a well known fighter.

Xingyiquan (Shape and intent fist) An Internal Style known for explosive movements, and aggressive strategy. Based on the wuxing (five elements) and on the fighting movements of 12 different animals.

Xiyangzhang A style was from Anhui Province during the late Qing Dynasty. The movements are open, extended, and physically demanding.

Yaan Yujiaquan (Yu Family Fist of Yaan). Created by Yu Zhenggang of Yaan . This style focuses on the healing aspect of wushu as well as the fighting aspect.

Yangbalangquan A style practiced in the Chongqing City area.

Yaojia A style developed by the Yao ethnic people living in the mountain range between Hunan and Guangxi.

Yanqingquan a.k.a. (secret ancestry style): A type of changquan based on the movements of a macaque.

Yaxingquan (Duck Style) Based on the movements of a duck, this style was said to have been created by an Emei Mountain Daoist of Tang Dynasty.

Yingzhuaquan (Eagle Claw Fist) A style based on the movements of an eagle and emphasising rapid, flowing, and continous Qinna techniques.

Yiquan see Dachengquan

Yizu Wushu A general term referring to the Wushu of the ethnic Yizu.

Yongchunquan A close-range style from Fujian Province which requires hand movements to stay below the forehead and no lower than the crotch. Lateral movement of the arms is restricted to the width of the shoulders.

Yuejiajiao (Yue Family Teaching). A style from Hunan Province that spread to Meixian in Guangdong.

Yuemenquan (Yue Family Fist) Attributed to Marshal Yue Fei, this is one of the most famous Emei styles.

Yueshilianquan (Yue Family Connected Fist) a.k.a. Yushi Sanshou. A type of changquan attributed to Marshall Yue Fei.

Yujiaquan (Yu Family Fist) A Daoist / Confucian style of eastern Sichuan Province.

Yumen (Yu Family Style). A defensive style emphasising the use of empty stance and soft-neutralizing against hard attacks.

Yumenquan A style known to have many changing hand techniques but a few kicking techniques.

Yumenquan (Fish Style) a.k.a. Liujiayi. A style from Hubei Province, with elements similar to taijiquan, said to be inspired by observing swimming fish and fishermen.

Zangqiang Wushu: A general term referring to the wushu of the Xizhang and Qiang area.

Zhaomenquan (Zhao Family Fist). Attributed to the first Northern Song Dynasty Emperor, Zhao Kuanyin. This style emphasises kicking techniques, and tends to use offense as a defense.

Zhimen: Created in the mid 19th century by Deng Dingguo and known for open and extended movements.

Zhoujiaquan (Zhou Family Fist) Created by Zhou Yufeng of Chongqing City during the reign of the Qing Emperor, Qianlong , between 1736 and 1795.

Zhuangzu Wushu A general term referring to the Wushu of the ethnic Zhuangzu people.

Zhujiajiao (Zhu Family Teaching) A style popular in Xingning in Guangdong Province.

Zimen-1 A style from Henan that has no routines to speak of.

Zimen-2 A style from Henan with uncertain origins.

Zimu Nanquan (Mother and Son Nanquan) A style created by a Wudang Daoist named Peng Ying.

Ziranmen (Natural Style) An internal style from Sichuan attributed to Xu Xiake.

Ziwumen (Midnight and Noon Style) An Emei style combining internal and external elements of Wudang and Shaolin.

Zuiquan (Drunken Style) Based on a drunkard’s movements, this An ancient and difficult style is thought to have originated during the Tang Dynasty (618 -907) Each movement is said to express and attribute of the legendary Eight Drunken Immortals.