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Xingyiquan

Mind and form, straight ahead.

One of the three classic internal styles of China, with Tai Chi and Baguazhang: direct, explosive attacks based on the five elements and twelve animal forms.

Fact file

Country
China
Founder / origin
Ji Jike (Ji Longfeng) (tradition)
Year / period
17th century
Type
Internal arts
Style of
Kung Fu
Sources: Encyclopaedia Britannica

History

Xingyiquan, "form-intention fist", is an internal Chinese martial art traditionally credited to the general Yue Fei and historically to Ji Jike (Ji Longfeng) in the 17th century. It moves in straight lines with short, explosive strikes.

Its core is the "five elements" fists — metal, water, wood, fire and earth — and twelve animal forms. Masters such as Guo Yunshen and Sun Lutang made it famous.