Ba Gua Zhang: Old Eight Palm
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Dong Hai Chuan taught different techniques to different disciples. Among the first generation of students, such as Yin Fu (1840-1909) and Cheng Ting Hua(1848-1900) , there were only 3 old palm postures existed. They are Single Exchange Palm, Double Exchange Palm and Following Posture Palm. These are called old three palms. The first generation student, Liu Feng Chun practiced Single Exchange Palm alone for 3 years. He only used this palm method and defeated many people at the time. These stories testified the statement that "quality is always more important than quantity" in terms of martial arts practice. In the second and third generation of students, more palm postures were compiled. We now have 8 palm postures (discussed in this book), 64 palm postures, swimming body interlink palm routine etc.
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About the Book
Originally there were only 3 old palms. Over several generations of practitioners, 8 palm methods were compiled. From these 8 palm methods, 64 palm methods were derived. Thus we call the original 8 palm methods "old 8 palms" or "8 large palms". These palm methods are the foundation of Ba Gua Zhang fighting methods. Due to diversified schools and lineages, there are many variations of the 8 palm methods. In this book, the 8 palm methods from Cheng Ting Hua style are introduced. For anyone that is interested in Ba Gua Zhang fighting methods, the contents of this book are essential to know. The 8 palm methods may derive into more fighting methods. They are like the 8 diagrams in the book of change or Yi Jing. Thus they gained the name of Ba Gua Zhang(Eight Diagrams Palm).
About the Author
In early 1980s, I learned some basic moves of Ba Gua Zhang. I spent a lot of time in walking in circles and holding basic postures. Even decades later, I still do the same routine. The key of tactics and strategy in Ba Gua Zhang fighting methods rests upon walking. We also need to practice changing stance from horse riding stance to bow and arrow stance etc constantly. Your ability and strength in walking determine your skills of Ba Gua Zhang.