Wushu

For many years, Chinese martial arts have been known as "kung fu" in the U.S., whereas in China they are refered to as "wushu." "Wushu," means "martial arts" in Mandarin Chinese, while "kung fu" (prounounced gungfu) means to have proficient skill at something. Therefore, "wushu" is obviously a more suitable name. Wushu is comprised of over 300 traditional martial arts such as Shaolinquan, Baguazhang, Taijiquan, etc, and the various weapons of ancient China. It also has more modern components. Wushu was modernized 30 years ago for the sake of uniformity in competition. With so many martial arts in China, standard routines (forms) were essential. The main styles of modern wushu that are practiced internationally are changquan (Long fist), and nanquan (Southern boxing). Changquan is comprised of movements from the wushu styles of northern China, while nanquan is made up of movements from southern Chinese wushu styles. In addition to these empty hand forms, contemporary wushu also contains many standardized weapons routines. These weapons include:
  • Straight sword
  • Broadsword
  • Spear
  • Staff
    • Contemporary wushu also features a 42 step taijiquan competition routine. Combat, of course, has not been left out. The full-contact fighting event known as san-da can be seen at wushu tournaments around the world.
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    Wushu links.....

    Wu-Lin Academy, Nuevo Laredo, Mexico (My school!)
    Wu-Lin Academy, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
    USAWKF-The governing body of Wushu in America
    Pinkybabygirl's Kung Fu pages
    Chinese Wushu
    Shaolin Gungfu
    Raffi's Wushu pages
    Nanquan Homepage
    Monash University Wushu club, Melbourne, Australia
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    Email: jose.s@excite.com