More about Yiquan & Xingyiquan

Yiquan (pronounced yee chuan), also known as Dachengquan, is based primarily on the ancient system of Xingyiquan. It was created by Wang Xiangzhai after a lifetime of practice and research into martial arts. His goal was to create a system where students would learn without being distracted by 'empty forms'. He therefore created Yiquan to re-focus on internal energy training. Yiquan is very effective as a martial art. Its effectiveness has been tested in numerous competitions and informal challenges. Wang Xiangzhai and his students were among the top martial artists in China.

Xinyiquan or Five elements boxing is a direct, no nonsense style which relies on the great Internal Power its practitioners (should) possess.This power is developed via practice of its standing posture, Santi. The basis of Xingyiquan is Wuxingquan which can be translated as Five Element Boxing. It contains five techniques or fists (quan) each of which is associated with one of the Elements:
 Piquan, translated as Splitting or Cutting Fist, is associated with Metal. It is used as a wedge with which to ‘split’ and deflect opponent’s attack while simultaneously attacking. The mental image the practitioners concentrate on is that of an axe splitting a log.  Tzuanquan, Drilling Fist, is associated with Water. The image is that of water suddenly bursting through the dam and sweeping all in its path. Bengquan, Crushing Fist, is associated with Wood. The image is that of an arrow hitting it’s target.  Paoquan, Cannon Fist, is associated with Fire. The image is that of a flame suddenly leaping out or a bullet leaving a barrel of a gun.  Hengquan, Crossing Fist, is associated with Earth. The image is that of a large rock rolling down a mountain.