SEVEN MOUNTAINS TAI CHI Wu-Tang Arts of Centre County

THE WUDANG WIKI

Wudang Gongfu (Wu-Tang Kung Fu)

Wu-Tang Kung Fu, known in its traditional context as Wudang Gongfu or Wudang Wuxue (武当武学), is a collection of martial arts styles rooted in the Daoist traditions of Wudang Mountain, a sacred site in China. Over the centuries, Daoist practitioners have called their martial arts by various names, reflecting shifts in cultural, spiritual, and practical focus. At Seven Mountains Tai Chi, we honor this legacy by referring to these practices as Wudang Wuxue, meaning "Wudang Martial Studies." This name emphasizes the theoretical and spiritual depth of the art, distinguishing it from the performance-oriented discipline of Wushu (武术).

Core Styles of Wu-Tang Kung Fu

Wudang Wuxue encompasses a wide array of martial arts styles, each offering unique approaches to combat, internal cultivation, and Daoist philosophy. At Seven Mountains Tai Chi, the primary styles included under Wu-Tang Kung Fu are:

• Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan) - Often the most recognized of Wudang arts, Taijiquan emphasizes soft, flowing movements and internal energy cultivation. It is a martial art, meditation, and health practice wrapped into one. The movements embody the principles of Yin and Yang, promoting balance, fluidity, and harmony.
• Xingyiquan (Form and Intent Boxing) - Known for its linear and direct movements, Xingyiquan focuses on explosive power and efficiency. It aligns physical forms with mental intention, drawing from the Five Elements and animal-inspired techniques for dynamic combat applications.
• Baguazhang (Eight Trigrams Palm) - Characterized by circular footwork and spiraling movements, Baguazhang is both graceful and powerful. Its emphasis on constant motion and adaptability reflects the Daoist principle of change, making it highly versatile in combat.
• Sanfengquan (Three Peaks Boxing) - Named after the legendary Wudang founder Zhang Sanfeng, this style integrates the principles of Taijiquan with dynamic, flowing techniques. It highlights both soft and hard applications, embodying the balance of Yin and Yang.
• Taiyiquan (Supreme Unity Boxing) - A rare and profound style that emphasizes harmonizing body, breath, and mind, Taiyiquan focuses on unity and transcendence, drawing practitioners deeper into Daoist spiritual practice.
• Liangyiquan (Two Extremes Boxing) - Exploring the interplay between Yin and Yang, Liangyiquan balances dynamic, forceful movements with soft, yielding techniques. Its forms are martial yet meditative, reflecting the duality of existence.
• Bajiquan (Eight Extremes Boxing) - Known for its explosive and close-range strikes, Bajiquan adds a more external, powerful element to the Wudang repertoire. Despite its external focus, it still incorporates internal energy principles, making it a dynamic and practical style.

Philosophical Underpinnings of Wu-Tang Kung Fu

The practice of Wudang Wuxue is deeply intertwined with Daoist principles, particularly the concepts of Yin and Yang, Qi (life energy), and harmony with the Dao (the Way). Each movement, technique, and form serves as a reflection of these natural principles, teaching practitioners to flow with rather than resist the forces of the universe.

Unlike many external martial arts systems, Wu-Tang Kung Fu prioritizes internal development. Practitioners cultivate their Qi through breathwork, meditation, and movement, aiming to achieve balance within themselves and with the world around them. This focus on internal energy not only enhances martial effectiveness but also supports physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth.

Training in Wudang Wuxue

Training in Wu-Tang Kung Fu begins with foundational exercises to build strength, flexibility, and internal awareness. Core practices include:

• Standing meditation to develop rootedness and internal energy.
• Basic forms and drills to cultivate body mechanics and martial applications.
• Partner work to explore timing, distance, and sensitivity.

As practitioners advance, they delve into the specific forms and techniques of each style, learning how to harmonize their movements with their intention and breath. Advanced training includes weapon forms, sparring, and integrating martial principles into everyday life.

Legends and Legacy of Wu-Tang Kung Fu

The rich history of Wudang Wuxue is steeped in legend, particularly the story of Zhang Sanfeng, the Daoist sage often credited with founding the Wudang martial arts. According to tradition, Zhang Sanfeng observed a crane and a snake in combat, inspiring him to develop techniques that emphasize yielding and adaptability over brute force. These principles remain at the core of Wu-Tang Kung Fu.

Throughout history, Wudang Mountain has been a hub for martial arts innovation, attracting practitioners seeking both martial mastery and spiritual enlightenment. The lineage of Wudang Wuxue has been preserved through generations of Daoist masters, ensuring its principles and practices endure.

Conclusion: Embracing the Path of Wudang Wuxue

Wudang Wuxue, or Wu-Tang Kung Fu, is more than a collection of martial arts—it is a living philosophy. By integrating physical movement, internal energy cultivation, and spiritual insight, it offers practitioners a holistic path to self-discovery and harmony with the Dao. Whether you are drawn to its martial applications, its health benefits, or its spiritual depth, the practice of Wudang Wuxue provides a timeless gateway to balance and mastery.