In this section, you will learn a few basic Drunken Style techniques. Drunken Style is one of the most famous traditional wushu (kung fu) styles. In Chinese, it is called Zui Quan 醉拳 (Zui = Drunken = 醉, Quan = Fist = 拳).
Drunken Style has both traditional and modern forms. What you often see in kung fu performances, like Shaolin shows, are modern interpretations. These show-forms are typically shorter and include more acrobatic jumps, designed for visual appeal. However, many of the core movements remain the same.
Young wushu athletes usually begin with acrobatic versions because they’re more visually impressive and fun to perform. Unfortunately, the deeper meanings behind the movements are often lost in these modern versions.
True masters of traditional Drunken Style—those who know dozens of standardized forms and their applications—are rare, even in China.
Find more wushu styles on the [main Wushu page].
Currently, there is only one instructional Drunken Style video available from Tagou Shaolin Wushu School.
We plan to add step-by-step technique guides and animations soon.
Drunken Style is a smooth and relaxed wushu style. Keep your hips and shoulders loose. Sudden speed changes are a key characteristic. Techniques like swaying, "drinking," and falling are used to confuse your opponent’s timing.
You imitate the movement of a drunkard—such as pretending to drink from cups, bottles, or pots—but you do not actually carry any props. Drunken Style is a bare-hand form.
Good balance is essential. The style includes frequent falls and acrobatic jumps. These are often combined with attacks, making it look like you've lost control when, in fact, you’re executing precise techniques.
