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It is believed that the ancient Chinese internal martial art of Hsing-I Chuan was created by Ji Ji-Ke many centuries ago. Ji Ji-Ke is said to have designed this very powerful martial art based on the movement of the spear. Originally, Hsing-I Chuan was called Hsin-I Liu-He Chuan (Heart and Mind Six Harmonies Fist). After many generations, Hsing-I Chuan was improved and simplified during the latter part of the 18th century for the purpose of training convoy guards and personal bodyguards. Hsing-I Chuan literally means "Form and Intention Boxing" which stands for the essence of its training - forms on the outside and intention on the inside. This martial art is said to be a linear style of fighting because most of its moves follow straight lines. Compared to other internal styles, the forms of Hsing-I Chuan have been well-documented and preserved in many books in the Chinese language, some of which have been translated into English during the last century. The forms of Hsing-I Chuan include the Five Elements and the Twelve Animals. There are also one-person and two-person forms and drills that are designed to develop particular skills. Some styles also teach various types of weapon sets. Today there are many styles of Hsing-I Chuan. The most common are the Shansi, Hebei, and Henan styles. The Shansi styles have more forms and its moves are smoother in execution. On the other hand, the Hebei style, the most popular among the three, has often been taught as an excellent foundation to Baguazhang which is another internal martial art that features circular maneuvers. On the other hand, the Henan style of Hsing-I Chuan contains only ten animal forms. Various styles of Hsing-I Chuan may have a lot of technical differences in the forms but retain the same essence. |