Weapons in Wu Shu

Some of our Wu Shu....

Weapons are taught as part of the Chinese Wu Shu tradition. Though these weapons are not used today, they play an important role in the development of strength, dexterity, concentration and coordination. Weapons require much more skill to perfect than regular open hand forms and some are quite complex. Chinese weapons are classified into several major groups, however, there are Four Major Weapons and these are taught at our School. The mastery of a weapon takes a lot of time and practice as well as dedication.

The spear is the "King of all weapons" because it is the one weapon that can defeat all other weapons. It is long like the staff, but cutting and quick like the sword. The spear can fight both long range and short and its techniques include, cutting, poking, leaping, swinging, floating and many others. In spear play, one must be swift and strong. The balance of body movements, suppleness and strength are very important in spear play.

The Cudgel, is called the "father of all weapons", being that many other weapons were developed from it. This is a very popular weapon since it is easy to make and very practical. The sweeping motion of the cudgel is heavily stressed although cudgel play include motions such as chopping, swinging, hanging, jumping, piercing, floating and lifting. Cudgel play combines offence with defence and is constantly changing the ways of play.

The sword is the "gentleman of all weapons." and is the most widely used of all weapons. Sword play is brisk, agile, elegant, and natural in action. Attention is paid to both motion and stillness. There are many techniques to sword play, such as pointing, hitting, piercing, chopping, blocking and leaping. These actions, accompanied with body movements and footsteps, form various combinations of sword play.

Broadsword/Sabre- The Sabre is the "marshal of all weapons" and is often compared to a "fierce tiger". It is vigorous and quick in defence and offence, and includes chopping, cutting, blocking, pushing and knocking. In sabre play, cooperation between sabre and hand is essential in order to maintain speed and balance. Strength, power and speed are very important but suppleness is also needed in sabre play.

Last Updated: 07/08/00