The spear (qiang) is a weapon used in modern wushu, although there are also traditional spear styles. Athletes who train with the spear usually also practice the straightsword. Since 2001, these two disciplines have primarily been performed by women. Because wushu was expected to become an Olympic event by 2008, the International Wushu Federation (IWUF) decided that women would compete in straightsword, spear, and taiji, while men would compete in broadsword, staff, and nanquan. Most female wushu athletes have traditionally preferred spear and straightsword anyway.
For more wushu information and foundational techniques, visit the Wushu Main section.
Your qiang (spear) should be slightly taller than you. Like the staff, the wushu spear is made of wood, but it is thinner and more flexible.
Spear techniques are fast, fluid, and circular. However, some straight and aggressive movements are also included in spear routines.
Acrobatic jumps, such as the no-handed cartwheel, are performed while holding the spear—though only in modern spear forms.
Many staff techniques are similar to spear techniques, making it easier to transition between the two weapons.
Make sure to learn the basic wushu techniques and acrobatic jumps before starting spear or other weapon forms.
