How many moves does a martial art need?
For Xing Yi (Hsing I) the answer is five. One of the oldest forms of Kung Fu, Xing Yi is one of the three major internal arts along with Bagua and Tai Chi. However unlike Bagua & Tai Chi, which are often said to require years of study before they can be used properly, Xing Yi can be learned in a fairly short period of time.
Like many Chinese martial arts the origins of Xing Yi are shrouded in fable and folklore. However it is generally agreed that Xing Yi was developed by the famous general Yue Fei (March 24, 1103 – January 27, 1142.) Because of its military origins Xing Yi was designed to be simple and quick to learn. However in-spite of it’s apparent simplicity Xing Yi has health benefits, a depth of understanding & an effectiveness that rivals the other internal arts. Xing Yi is also one of the hardest hitting martial arts in existence.
Hsing I master Kuo Yun Shen was known as the "Divine Crushing Hand' because of his incredible power.
Xing Yi is based on only five simple movements:
- Pi Chuan – Chopping Fist
- Tsuan Chuan – Drilling Fist
- Beng Chuan – Crushing Fist
- Pao Chuan – Pounding Fist
- Heng Chuan – Crossing Fist
Over the years many intricate forms, animal styles, nei gung & chi kung methods have been derived from these five movements and used to lengthen Xing Yi training. However the five movements and an understand of their internal principles & application is all that is needed to master this powerful & profound form of internal Kung Fu.