How to Do the Duan Chuan Routine in Kung Fu

The Duan Chuan routine, or short attack fist form, is a series of stances, punches and kicks that are practiced in kung fu. Most of these techniques are easily mastered by themselves. It is when they are used in combination with each other that the drill becomes more difficult.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

First Half of Routine

1. Begin the Duan Chuan routine in the ready stance with fists at your side.

2. Block with the left arm by sweeping it open-handed, in a complete arc over your back and head, placing your hand between the shoulder and collar bone. Then execute a vertical punch straight out from your right side.

3. Block with right hand as described in Step 2, then immediately move into the Pu Tui stance with your left leg extended. Bring open palms facing inward and crossed in front of chest.

4. Shift your body weight to the left leg and rise into a mountain climbing stance. Extend you left arm out and raise it even with your shoulder. Keep your hand open and palm bent upward. Strike with the outer part of the hand. Meanwhile, the right arm is swung behind the back with the palm partially closed and wrist bent slightly.

5. Execute a front kick with your right leg while keeping your arms in the same position in Step 4. Put your right foot down to position yourself in a horse riding stance, which will place you facing 45 degrees counterclockwise from Step 4. Use an inner block with your right hand as you set your foot down. The left arm is pointed down in front, guarding the groin.

Second Half of Routine

6. Turn 45 degrees to your right and step forward with your left leg into a mountain climbing stance while punching with your left hand and pulling the right hand back. Grab with your left hand. Step forward with your right leg into a mountain climbing stance while punching with your right hand and pulling the left back.

7. Grab with your right hand, and then punch with the left while pulling the right back. Simultaneously, step forward into the skipping leg.

8. Drop your left leg. Step forward with your right into a mountain climbing stance while punching with your right hand and pulling the left back.

9. Turn 45 degrees counterclockwise and block with the left arm by sweeping your arm, open-handed, in a complete arc over your head and back, placing your hand between the shoulder and collar bone.

10. Move 90 degrees counterclockwise and return to the ready stance to end the Duan Chuan routine.

Tips & Warnings

• Always watch your posture and form to prevent injuries.

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