Xingyiquan

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Xingyiquan, a traditional Chinese martial art, was founded by Ji Longfeng, a native of Shanxi Province. As the art was passed down through generations, it gradually developed into distinct regional styles in Shanxi, Henan, and Hebei.

In the Shanghai area, Zhinanwei Xingyiquan originated from Ji Longfeng of Shanxi. It was transmitted through the lineage from Zhang Danshi to Zhang Shilin, maintaining an unbroken tradition for nearly 200 years.

This style is characterized by an ancient aesthetic, a complete system, high-level combat techniques, and intense internal and external energy.

With its deep historical roots and clear lineage of over two centuries, Zhinan Wei Chuan Xingyiquan has preserved the complete theory, routines, and combat methods of Xingyiquan in their original form.

Xingyiquan, a traditional martial art created by Ji Longfeng of Shanxi, flourished over time through successive generations of masters. As it evolved, it formed distinct schools in Shanxi, Henan, Hebei, and other regions. The principal inheritor of Zhinan Wei Xingyiquan in Shanghai is Mr. Wei Chunyuan. The Xingyiquan taught by Mr. Wei originates from Ji Longfeng and was passed down through Zhang Danshi to Zhang Shilin, forming a lineage of approximately 200 years. In the early 1950s, Zhang Shilin was invited to Shanghai to teach Xingyiquan. In 1954, Mr. Wei Chunyuan became his formal disciple.

Zhinan Wei Chuan Xingyiquan stands out with its classical style, comprehensive structure, high-level technicality, and powerful expression. Originating in the mid-to-late Qing Dynasty, this tradition includes twelve complete Xingyiquan routines, each composed of more than six movements. In addition to the twelve main forms, it features advanced techniques such as the Mandarin Duck Leg, Thirty-Six Elbows, Yue-style Eight Palms, Eight Elbows, Eight Knees, Eight Shoulders, and more. Particularly in combat applications, the Eight Hidden Leg Techniques and Eight Stamping Leg Techniques are exceptionally refined and unique.

A key feature of Zhinan Wei Chuan Xingyiquan is its explosive power. The techniques passed down by Mr. Wei Chunyuan are distinctive and aggressive, including coordinated attacks using the shoulders, elbows, and knees. The rare Eight Hidden Legs exemplify the depth of this system. Wei Chuan Xingyiquan incorporates both fixed stepping and rising stepping power, emphasizing whole-body coordination, fluid transformation, and simultaneous attack and change during combat.

With its ancient origin and clearly documented lineage over the past 200 years, Zhinan Wei Chuan Xingyiquan fully retains the philosophy, routines, and combat methods of traditional Xingyiquan. The richness and completeness of this heritage make it a valuable subject of study for those interested in the history of Xingyiquan and the authentic style of traditional Chinese martial arts.

Original Chinese text source:
https://www.ichshanghai.cn/