Traditional wushu styles focus more on practical applications, while modern wushu emphasizes acrobatics, speed, and visually appealing movements. Some traditional styles highlight internal energy or qi flow, while others concentrate on combat applications.
You can find basic wushu instructions in the [Wushu Main] section. In traditional martial arts, every movement has a purpose and historical background.
Many practitioners of traditional wushu believe that modern wushu is no longer a true martial art and that young athletes are harming the art and culture. However, the reality is that many of these same athletes return to traditional wushu as they get older—completing the circle.
Well-known traditional hand styles include:
Animal Styles, Xing Yi, Taiji, Ba Gua, Tong Bi, Da Hong Quan, and more.
Traditional styles are often divided into four groups, based on popularity and availability:
Most traditional styles involve less acrobatics than modern wushu.
Exceptions include styles like Di Tang Quan and Eagle Claw, which are more dynamic.
Young athletes typically start with modern wushu and transition to traditional forms as they age.
Everyone can learn traditional martial arts, but advanced jumps and acrobatics become harder with age.
Tip: If you want to excel in wushu, don't spend too much time learning dozens of different traditional styles when you're still young enough to master jumps and difficult techniques.
Use every minute you can to focus on acrobatic difficulty, and save traditional training for when you're tired, overtrained, or recovering from injury.
Visit the Wushu Video Section to see demonstrations and tutorials.
