Dragon Form Baguazhang(Baguazhang training)
Dragon Form Baguazhang is a major style and training system within the traditional Chinese martial art of Baguazhang. Building upon Baguazhang's core principles of "using movement as function and palms as technique," it deeply incorporates the mythical characteristics and dynamic qualities of the Chinese dragon. This results in a distinctive style known for its agile, fluid body mechanics, a balance of hard and soft power, and highly effective combat techniques, making it one of the most elegant and technically comprehensive branches of Baguazhang.
Origins & Characteristics
The origins of Dragon Form Baguazhang can be traced to the lineage of Dong Haichuan, the founder of Baguazhang. Later masters, during its transmission, infused the palm system with the symbolic attributes of the dragon—its rising and falling, coiling movements, expansive and contracting nature, and powerful adaptability—into the footwork and body methods. This process gradually developed into a systematic set of forms. Its essence lies not merely in the outward imitation of the dragon's shape ("form imitation"), but more importantly in capturing its internal spirit ("intent capturing") through coordinated power and body mechanics.
Core Technical System
1. Dragon Body Method: Emphasizes a body that moves with "three bends and nine turns" like a dragon. Practitioners train the body to undulate, twist, coil, and issue sudden power while circling, forming the foundation for developing internal strength and whole-body coordination.
2. Palm Techniques & Applications: Based on the eight mother palms (e.g., Single Changing Palm, Double Changing Palm), it develops numerous unique techniques embodying the dragon's nature, such as Probing Claw, Cloud Dragon Reveals Itself, and Green Dragon Swings Tail. These techniques focus on the coordinated use of fingers, palms, wrists, and arms to deliver instantaneous power.
3. Footwork & Circle Walking: Masters the Baguazhang essence of "walking steps like treading through mud, circling like a coiling dragon." The footwork is both light and steady, emphasizing constant weight shifting and attacking weaknesses while in motion.
4. Power Characteristics: Focuses on combining short-range power ("inch power"), coiling energy ("silk-reeling energy"), and explosive force. Movements appear smooth and circular yet contain hidden strength, allowing for the seamless integration of defense and attack.
Training Value & Practical Meaning
Practicing Dragon Form Baguazhang significantly enhances flexibility, coordination, explosive power, and reaction speed. Its complex body method training offers deep insight into the internal martial arts principle of "using intent to guide energy, using energy to move the body." Its combat strategy emphasizes "using movement to control stillness, using speed to overcome slowness, and using change to counter change," giving it high practical value. Simultaneously, its graceful movements make it highly suitable for performance and demonstration.
In summary, Dragon Form Baguazhang is a brilliant gem within the Baguazhang tradition. It transcends simple mimicry, blending animal inspiration, traditional cultural symbolism, and sophisticated martial philosophy into an art that effectively builds health, cultivates the mind, and imparts practical self-defense skills.
