A comprehensive guide to the fundamentals, sequences, and applications
of Baguazhang.
Baguazhang is unquestionably one of the most esoteric disciplines in
martial arts. Based on the eight trigrams (bagua) of the Yi Jing, it
emphasizes the importance of maneuverability, evasion, and change to
deflect an aggressor's attacks. Unlike martial arts systems that employ
overt punches, kicks, and grappling techniques, most of the bodily
weapons of the baguazhang arsenal are well concealed, agile, and smooth.
Utilizing deceptive forms of footwork and body shifting, the principles
and techniques in this book will help readers develop a firm foundation
and build a critical skill set for this unique martial art.
Longtime martial arts practitioner and author Phillip Starr introduces
readers to the basics of baguazhang, showing how the movements of this
widely misunderstood art can be practically applied in self-defense.
Readers will learn:
- Key baguazhang principles
- Footholds
- Basic stepping techniques, walking exercises, and postures
- Proper alignments
- Mother palms, or basic exercises critical to the development of the
bagua body
Ideal for newcomers to baguazhang, this introduction elucidates the two
foundational Single Change and Double Change Palms and offers a
refresher for advanced practitioners looking to further explore
applications for movements they already know.
