How to Learn Bagua Kung Fu

A kung fu practitioner shows his stuff.

Bagua kung fu is a traditional style of martial arts that relies heavily on footwork. Through the development of fast-moving, circular footwork, bagua practitioners are able to skillfully evade their opponents' strikes while at the same time repositioning themselves to be able to catch their opponents off guard with their own strikes. Bagua is one of the most complete styles of traditional martial arts in terms of integrating classic theory into practical application.

Things You'll Need

• Books
• Videos
• Loose-fitting clothing
• Open space to work in
• Computer with Internet connection

Instructions

How to Learn Bagua Kung Fu

1. Acquire some books or instructional videos on bagua kung fu techniques. Many libraries will order such materials for you upon request. However, martial arts supply stores and websites are more likely to have such materials on hand already.

2. Clear a good space to work out in. If you have instructional videos or DVDs, you will need to clear some space in front of your television. If you have books, you might go into the backyard or even to a park. Just make sure you have adequate room to work in. Bagua is a highly mobile style of fighting and you will need room in which to learn its techniques.

3. Stretch before you begin your workout. It's important to be limber when doing any kind of martial arts-related activity. Once you have your instructional materials on hand, do some stretching exercises before you commence your activity.

4. Start with basics. Even if you have studied other styles of martial arts previously, it's always important to learn the basics in a new style. Bagua is no different. Grasping its key concepts, footwork and techniques will help you lay a firm foundation on which to build.

5. If possible try to find a good instructor. Learning through books and videos is all well and good. However, it's possible to learn much more from a qualified instructor. Use the phone book or the Internet to find out if there is a bagua kung fu dojo near you. If you like the feel of the place and you can afford it, try studying there. You will find that it is possible to progress much faster by taking a class.

Tips & Warnings

• Bagua kung fu depends on quick evasions and repositioning oneself. Maintaining good cardiovascular fitness is very important for the bagua practitioner. This will make it easier to "dance" around your opponent, evading his attacks and striking him or her as you please.

• Always remember to stretch before any kind of martial arts activity. Failure to do so may result in injury.

• Also remember that martial arts are about fighting. If you do find a dojo, make sure you are comfortable with the style of training they offer. Don't let yourself be pushed into a situation you are not comfortable with or prepared for.

References

• Inside Kung Fu