Chinese Martial Arts
In
China, the term martial arts is often interchangeably used with
the terms Kung Fu and Wushu. But both the terms
have different meanings attached to them, with different martial
arts traditions and can also sometimes be used in a context other
than martial arts. In a colloquial language, Kung Fu refers to any
skill accomplished by an individual, while Wushu refers to general
martial activities, especially Gymnastics involving the usage of
Chinese bare-handed weapons.
The
tradition of martial arts have been into practice in China since the
time immemorial, or maybe two to four thousand years ago, with a
number of varied styles developed, each having different techniques
and ideas. All styles in martial arts share common themes such as
families, sects and schools. These often resemble the movements of
animals, Chinese philosophies, myths and beliefs. The styles in
martial arts emphasize on binding Qi energy, competition and
exhibition and working towards self-defence, health and
self-sufficiency.
Chinese martial arts can be divided into many categories, the
primary ones being internal martial arts and external martial arts.
Some martial arts are characterised by the location type, that is,
northern region or southern region. Thereafter, they are further
classified on the basis of their province or city. Chinese martial
arts of northern style focus on using fast and strong kicks, high
jumps and all movements done in a rapid manner. For instance,
Changquan and Xingyiquan. The southern-styled martial arts involve
strong arm and hand techniques, stable and immovable stances and
fast footwork. For instance, Nanquan and Wing Chun. Many Chinese
martial arts are also categoried by religion, imitative styles and
such other aspects.
Different training classes are executed to learn all types of
martial arts. There are traditional schools of martial arts in
China, such as the popular Shaolin monks. Such schools undergo an
in-depth study of martial arts to provide its students with
self-defence, ethical and mental training. Martial arts have a
strong connection with moral values. The term Wude further
describes this relationship, where wu signifies martial and de
means morality. This term denotes martial morality and it deals with
two things, viz. Morality of deed and Morality of mind. By morality
of deed, Wude focuses on social relations, and by morality of mind,
it means harmonising wisdom and emotions with each other. The vital
purpose of Chinese martial arts is to reach beyond any extremity.
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