Chinese martial arts
Multiple fighting styles developed over centuries in Greater China.
Chinese martial arts, known under umbrella terms such as kung fu, kuoshu, or wushu, are multiple fighting styles that developed over centuries in Greater China. They are often classified by common traits into families, with examples including Shaolinquan physical exercises involving Five Animals mimicry, and training methods inspired by Old Chinese philosophies, religions, and legends. Styles focusing on qi manipulation are called internal, while those concentrating on muscle and cardiovascular fitness are external; geographical associations like northern and southern are another popular classification method.
- field
- Martial arts
- nationality
- Greater China
- known_for
- Multiple fighting styles, including internal and external classifications, and the modern sport of wushu
Lore & Background
The genesis of Chinese martial arts has been attributed to self-defense, hunting, and military training in ancient China. Since the 1950s, the People's Republic of China has organized them as an exhibition and full-contact sport under the heading 'wushu'. Legend attributes origins before the Xia dynasty, over 4,000 years ago, with the Yellow Emperor introducing early fighting systems. The earliest references appear in the Spring and Autumn Annals (5th century BC), mentioning hand-to-hand combat theory integrating 'hard' and 'soft' techniques. A combat wrestling system called juélì or jiǎolì is mentioned in the Classic of Rites. Between the 16th and 17th centuries, at least forty sources evidence martial practice as integral to Shaolin monastic life.
Reader's Guide
Chinese martial arts represent a diverse and historically significant tradition that evolved from ancient military training, self-defense, and hunting practices into a complex system of fighting styles. Their importance lies in their deep integration with Chinese philosophy, including Taoist and Confucian influences, and their role in shaping cultural identity. The classification into internal and external styles, as well as northern and southern schools, reflects a sophisticated understanding of physical and energetic training. The modern development of wushu as a regulated sport since the 1950s has globalized these arts, while historical records from the Nanjing decade and earlier provide a foundation for scholarly study. The legacy of Shaolin temple-based martial arts, with documented combat involvement from the 7th century, underscores the enduring connection between monastic life and martial practice. The philosophical bases drawn from texts like the Zhuangzi, Tao Te Ching, and The Art of War further elevate Chinese martial arts beyond mere combat to a discipline encompassing psychology, health, and ethics.
Did You Know?
- The term kung fu in Chinese refers to any skill acquired through learning or practice, not exclusively martial arts.
- The earliest references to Chinese martial arts are found in the Spring and Autumn Annals (5th century BC).
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