Traditional Praying Mantis, or Tang Lang Quan, is a Chinese martial art inspired by the movements of the praying mantis insect. Known for its agility, speed, and precision, it features rapid hand strikes, trapping, and joint locks. The style emphasizes dynamic footwork and includes various forms that combine offensive and defensive techniques. Training focuses on conditioning, sparring, and practicing forms to build strength and technique. Rooted in traditional Chinese philosophy, Praying Mantis martial arts highlight adaptability and strategic use of an opponent’s force.
Bagua Zhang stands out as one of the most distinctive and advanced styles in Chinese martial arts. It is one of the three “internal styles,” alongside Tai Chi Quan and Xing Yi Quan. This style was developed with inspiration from the Bagua diagram found in the YiChing. Bagua Zhang is renowned for its circular walking patterns and its continuous, fluid movements. Unlike many other Kung Fu styles, its offensive and defensive techniques are embedded in the turns made during its seamless motions.
Bajiquan is a unique style within Chinese martial arts, characterized by its offensive nature, direct approach, and short-range explosive power. The forms often include distinctive stomping steps. Historically, Bajiquan masters have served as head trainers for the bodyguards of notable figures such as Qing Dynasty emperor PuYi, communist leader Mao Tse-Tung, and Taiwan’s founding president Jiang Kai-Shek.
Pigua Zhang is considered the counterpart to Bajiquan. In Taiwan, these two styles are frequently taught together as complementary disciplines. There’s a well-known Chinese martial arts saying: “When Pigua is combined with Baji, even gods and demons will be terrified. When Baji is combined with Pigua, heroes will lament their inferiority.” Pigua Zhang is recognized for its long-range techniques, rapid speed, precision, and flexibility.
At Wu Tan, we view weapons as extensions of our limbs, which is why we emphasize mastering hand techniques before weapon training. The weapons we study include the Jian (straight sword), Dao (saber), Xuang Dao (double saber), Qiang (spear) and Guen (staff).