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Ba Mei Shou (八枚手, bāméi shǒu) means “Eight Petals Hands” and is a Shaolin White Crane barehand form. This is an extended version that also includes Da Yao (Large Shaking) and Ti Gua (Kicking Trigram). Da Yao and Ti Gua are intermediate sequences, while Ba Mei Shou is an advanced one.
Bagua Dao (八卦刀, bāguà dāo) means “Eight Trigrams Saber” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist saber form. It originates from Bagua, an internal style of martial arts, and was adapted into the Long Fist style. The Bagua saber is larger and heavier than its Long Fist counterpart.
Bai He (白鶴, báihè) simply means “White Crane.” This barehand form is a compilation of 4 Shaolin White Crane sequences: Qi Xing, Shan He, Gong He, and Ba Mei Shou. It introduces typical White Crane techniques and Jin patterns.
Beng Bu (崩步, bēngbù) means “Forceful Stepping” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist barehand form. Although there are many similarities to the Beng Bu of the Praying Mantis style, this form is an alternative version trained in Long Fist.
Chai Shou (拆手, cháishǒu) means “Barehand Breakdown.” The name implies the analysis barehand techniques. Students are expected to create a 2-person matching set utilizing both White Crane and Long Fist philosophies. White Crane should be used primarily when in short range, while Long Fist should be used when in long range.
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. It includes joint locks and cavity press techniques. Altogether, it is estimated that over 800 Chin Na techniques exist in martial arts. The YMAA system consists of about 120. As this is an introductory level, the goal is to understand the correct angles for successfully locking an opponent and a building a general awareness for methods of entry without exposing vulnerabilities. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Small Wrap Hand (小纏手, xiǎochánshǒu)
- Roast Peking Duck (北京烤鴨, Běijīng kǎoyā)
- Feudal Lord Invites to Dinner (霸王請客, bàwáng qǐngkè)
- Upper Hooking Hand (上刁手, shàngdiāoshǒu)
- Push the Boat to Follow the Stream (順水推舟, shùnshuǐ tuīzhōu)
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this level, students must execute techniques with improved fluidity and less hesitation. Speed is not necessary, as accuracy and attention to detail are more important at this stage. Students should already have a preliminary understanding of correct Chin Na angles. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Back Wrap Hand (反纏手, fǎnchánshǒu)
- Large Wrap Elbow (大纏肘, dàchánzhǒu)
- Turn Back to Seize the Ape (回頭擒猿, huítóu qínyuán)
- Bow to Show Courtesy (鞠躬行禮, jūgōng xínglǐ)
- Old Man Promoted to General (老漢拜將, lǎohàn bàijiàng)
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this rank, students should have already have a gained solid understanding of how to smoothly apply Chin Na in various martial contexts. Of the roughly 120 YMAA Chin Na techniques, students should select only 10 for study. The primary goal of Chin Na 1, 2, and 3 is not to simply learn as many techniques as possible, but rather to refine a very select subset. If students can master a few techniques well, then they should be able to apply the same learning process to achieve a high level of quality in other techniques later.
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this level, students must counterattack 10 Chin Na techniques with another Chin Na technique. Students must yield and redirect an opponent’s power in order to practically and successfully setup a counterattack technique. You may use Chin Na techniques that were not in previous ranks.
Dagger Defense (匕首防身法, bǐshǒu fángshēn fǎ) consists of 10 Chin Na techniques against opponents with a dagger or other short weapon. Concepts include maintaining correct distance, awareness of vulnerabilities, and stepping strategies. After learning this set, students are encouraged to explore additional dagger defense strategies utilizing techniques from Chin Na and Shuai Jiao.
Dan Dao Dui Qiang (單刀對槍, dāndāo duìqiāng) means “Single Saber vs. Spear” and is a traditional Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It gives students an example how a short weapon can defend against a long weapon. Sometimes this form is also called Dan Dao Po Hua Qiang (單刀破花槍, dāndāo pò huāqiāng), meaning “Single Saber Destroys Lively Spear.”
Jiandan Daofa Duilian (簡單刀法對練, jiǎndān dāofǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Saber Matching Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the saber. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in correct saber theory.
Er Lu Mai Fu (二路埋伏, èrlù máifú) means “The Second Way of Ambush” and is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist sequence that is very similar to Yi Lu Mai Fu. It introduces a few new techniques and strategies that expand upon the Mai Fu forms’ style of practice. Speed and agility are still the goals of this level, in addition to the power and form developed in previous sequences.
Er Lu Qiang (二路槍, èrlù qiāng) means “The Second Way of Spear.” It originated from the Yang family during the Song dynasty and is considered a Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. The Yang family was famous for their spear abilities and had 13 spear sequences. This form is believed to be the second. Spear is considered the king of long weapons.
Gong Li Quan (功力拳, gōnglì quán) means “Power Sequence.” It is the second barehand sequence trained in Northern Shaolin Long Fist. Like Lian Bu Quan, this sequence was developed by the Jingwu Association. While Lian Bu Quan serves as a student's first introduction to forms, Gong Li Quan is an introduction to martial applications and power. Power generation in the legs and hips is especially important.
Gun Dui Dan Dao (棍對單刀, gùnduì dāndāo) means “Staff vs. Single Saber.” Using the knowledge learned from previous staff and saber training, students should now create a matching sequence for staff vs. saber. Every technique must have a purpose. The analysis, discussion, and refinement of each movement in the form will help students deepen their understanding and skill for both weapons.
Gun Dui Shuang Jian (棍對雙鐧, gùnduì shuāngjiǎn) means “Staff vs. Double Rods.” At this level, students must have a firm grasp of fundamental Shaolin White Crane principles and should be capable of constructing a 2-person matching set based on Qi Mei Gun and Sha Shou Jian. The applications presented must be realistic, practical, and logical.
Jiandan Gun Fa Duilian (簡單棍法對練, jiǎndān gùnfǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Staff Matching Practice” and is a 2-person exercise. The goal is to solidify staff handling, stances, and footwork. The first 4 techniques are from the Qi Mei Gun sequences. The fifth form consists of attacking and defending in a more freestyle manner, as if in a light contact sparring session. Students should develop an awareness of attacking various targets while still being able to defend the 4 major points.
- Tangle Staff - Circle and Press Down (絞棍 - 轉圈下壓法, jiǎogùn - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Intercept Upward - Circle and Press Down (上架 - 轉圈下壓法, shàngjià - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Slide Sideways - Circle and Press Down (側滑 - 轉圈下壓法, cèhuá - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Neutralize Low and Lift Upward (下化上撩法), xiàhuà shàngliáo fǎ )
- Four Points Free Sparring (四點自由對擊, sìdiǎn zìyóu duìjī)
Ziyou Gunfa Fanying Xunlian (自由棍法反應訓練, zìyóu gùnfǎ fǎnyìng xùnliàn) means “Freestyle Staff Reaction Training.” You and your partner must attack each other with staffs while advancing or retreating only in a straight line. You must be able to react naturally and accurately without too much guessing or anticipation. Body protective gear is required, specifically for the fingers, wrists, eyes, and head.
Ziyou Gunfa Fanying Xunlian (自由棍法反應訓練, zìyóu gùnfǎ fǎnyìng xùnliàn) means “Freestyle Staff Reaction Training.” You and your partner must attack each other with staffs while moving in either a straight line or circles. Both linear and circling techniques must be present. Sticking and coiling techniques should be applied in defense, and your reaction should feel comfortable and natural. Students should wear protective gear, particularly for the fingers, wrists, eyes, and head.
Jiandan Jianfa Duilian (簡單劍法對練, jiǎndān jiànfǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Swordplay Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the Chinese sword. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in correct sword theory.
Jiandan Jian-Dao Fa Duilian (簡單劍刀法對練, jiǎndān jiàndāofǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Sword Saber Matching Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the sword and saber. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in each weapon.
Kong Shou Dui Gun (空手對棍, kōngshǒu duìgùn) means “Barehand vs. Staff.” It is a 2-person Shaolin White Crane form designed to train a barehand fighter in maneuvering in and out of a staff opponent's effective fighting range. While the form mostly emphasizes the barehand side, the staff practitioner does train footwork and distancing. White Crane fundamentals are a requisite.
Kongshou Dui Dandao (空手對單刀, kōngshǒu duì dāndāo) means “Barehand vs. Single Saber.” At this level, students should have learned enough techniques to construct a 2-person barehand vs. saber matching set. Together with a partner, students must work together to analyze and compile techniques together into a workable sequence.
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this level, the primary goal is to maintain a safe distance. You will need to avoid 7 out of 10 arbitrary knife attacks. The attacker is allowed to use any technique, including swings, stabs, fakes, and hand switching. Students must learn how to read and react to the motions of the attacker. All of the fundamental training and conditioning from prior levels will be absolutely essential.
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this second level of barehand against dagger, the goal is still to avoid 7 out of 10 arbitrary knife attacks but now with a focus on not only successfully escaping and dodging, but also intercepting and counterattacking.
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this final level of barehand against dagger, you must once again be able to escape, dodge and counterattack any arbitrary knife attack 7 out of 10 times. However, this time you must utilize intercept attacks with a belt. This involves wrapping and deflection techniques covering the 8 corners of defense and attack.
Kun Wu Gun (崑吾棍, Kūnwú gùn) means “Kun Wu Staff.” Kun Wu is the name of a mountain in the Shandong province of China, where this form is believed to have originated from. This form is a basic staff sequence of Northern Shaolin Long Fist. The handling of the staff, application of power, and stepping all focus on long range fighting.
Kun Wu Jian (三才對劍, Kūnwu jiàn) means “Kun Wu Sword” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. Kun Wu is the name of a mountain in the Shandong province of China, where this form is believed to have originated from. This sword sequence teaches intermediate level techniques.
Lian Bu Quan (連步拳, liánbù quán) means “Continuous Stepping Sequence.” It is the first and most fundamental Northern Shaolin Long Fist form and was trained in the Jingwu Association. This form is usually taught as an introduction to footwork and postures, particularly strategies for advancing and withdrawing in long-range fighting. Stability and fluency in stances is essential prior to learning this sequence.
Pan Shou (盤手, pánshǒu) means “Bridging Hands,” or “Connecting Hands” and is a set of 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand exercises designed to train specific blocks and strikes. It is also know as Qiao Shou (橋手, qiáoshǒu) -- meaning literally “Bridge Hands,” or Da Qiao (搭橋, dāqiáo) -- meaning “Building a Bridge.” The Wing Chun style variant is called Qi Sao. This Pan Shou set is one of the first exercises a beginner student should learn to become acquainted with a limited set of basic stances and hand forms.
- Single Low Cover Hand (單下蓋手, dān xiàgàishǒu)
- Double Low Cover Hand (雙下蓋手, shuāng xiàgàishǒu)
- Left and Right Intercepting Hand (左右截手, zuǒyòu jiéshǒu)
- Left, Right, and Low Intercepting Hand (左右下截手, zuǒyòuxià jiéshǒu)
- Upper Neutralizing Hand (上化手, shàng huàshǒu)
Pan Shou (盤手, pánshǒu) means “Bridging Hands,” or “Connecting Hands” and is a set of 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand exercises designed to train specific blocks and strikes. It is also know as Qiao Shou (橋手, qiáoshǒu) -- meaning literally “Bridge Hands,” or Da Qiao (搭橋, dāqiáo) -- meaning “Building a Bridge.” The Wing Chun style variant is called Qi Sao. This Pan Shou set introduces 5 more practice drills to further develop a student’s White Crane hand skills, including hooking, coiling, sticking, and adhering.
- Double Sticking Hands (雙纏手, shuāng chánshǒu)
- Single Sticking Hand (單纏手, dān chánshǒu)
- Sparrow Limbs (麻雀肢, máquè zhī)
- Low Neutralizing Hand (下化手, xià huàshǒu)
- Passing the Mountain Limbs (過山肢, guòshān zhī)
Qi Mei Dui Gun (齊眉對棍, qíméi duìgùn) means “Eyebrow Staff Matching.” It is a choreographed Shaolin White Crane staff versus staff form based on movements from Qi Mei Gun. This form train students to develop a better sense of distance, power, rooting, and martial applications.
Qi Mei Gun (齊眉棍, qíméigùn) means “Equal Eyebrow Staff” and is a Shaolin White Crane staff form. The techniques are designed for a staff as tall as the practitioner's eyebrows. It is a basic form that introduces students to long weapons practice.
Qi Men (戚門劍, Qīmén jiàn) means “Qi Family Sword” and is the a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. It was created in the Ming Dynasty by General Qi, who was very famous for his spear and sword techniques.
Qi Xing (七星, qīxīng) means “Seven Stars” and is a Shaolin White Crane form. It is the first barehand solo sequence in White Crane. Although there are only a few techniques, the sequence includes 3 basic Jins that are essential for all White Crane stylists so master.
Qi Xing Dao (七星刀, qīxīng dāo) means “Seven Star Saber.” It is a basic saber form in Northern Shaolin Long Fist that introduces students to the art of short weapons practice. The saber is considered the leader of short weapons. At least 60 percent of saber techniques are shared by all other short weapons.
San Cai Dui Jian (三才對劍, sāncái duìjiàn) means “Three Powers Sword Matching” and is a 2-person Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword versus sword form. It naturally follows the practice of San Cai Jian, the solo version. The first and second halves of San Cai Jian actually match each other in exchanging offensive and defensive techniques. Through this practice, students will gain a better understanding of sword applications.
San Cai Jian (三才劍, sāncáijiàn) means “Three Powers Sword” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. The three powers are what the Chinese consider to be the three most powerful forces in this world: Heaven, Earth, and Man. San Cai Jian is a basic yet well-known sequence in Long Fist. The Chinese straight sword is very flexible, so the application of Qigong techniques are necessary to defend against heavier, longer, or stronger weapons.
San Lu Pao (三路跑, sānlùpǎo) means “Three Ways of Running” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Sometimes Pao is translated as 炮 (pào), which means explosiveness. This form trains speed, root, and power (Jin). This level requires a strong sense of opponent. The techniques must become more alive and less like a recited exhibition. Notably longer than previous sequences, San Lu Pao requires endurance. This form will serve as the foundation to all of your subsequent advanced Long Fist training.
Sha Shou Jian (殺手鐧, shāshǒu jiǎn) means “Killing Hands Rods” and is sometimes also called Shuang Jian (雙鐧, shuāng jiǎn), meaning “Double Rods.” It is a Shaolin White Crane double-weapon form. The rods can be either wood or metal. Techniques in this form can be readily applied to other double weapons, including double saber, double sword, and double hook sword.
Shang Xia Zhi (上下肢, shàngxià zhī) means “Upper and Lower Limbs” and is a 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand form. It emphasizes simple techniques that teach the student how the hands are used in the White Crane style. This sequence is primarily made up of 8 punches and 8 blocks, but from this limited set of movements comes the 64 basic White Crane hand techniques. It will form the basis for more advanced White Crane practice. There are 2 sections to this sequence, simple and complex.
Shi Zi Tang (十字趟, shízì tàng) means “Cross-shaped Trip” and is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Initial versions of the sequence followed a cross-shaped walking pattern, like the Chinese character for the number 10 (十). Although the form evolved over time, the name was never changed.
Shuai Jiao (摔跤), shuāijiāo) encompasses wrestling and takedowns. It is one of the 4 major categories of martial arts. There are 10 takedown techniques in this set. From these 10, others can be derived. Because it involves close-range fighting, many techniques naturally leverage off of Chin Na as well. Students must also learn how to properly break their falls and to condition their muscles, tendons, and joints.
Si Lu Ben Za (四路奔砸, sìlù bēnzá) means “Four Ways of Running and Smashing” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Alternative names include 四路奔打 (sìlù bēndá) -- meaning “Four Ways of Running and Striking” and 四路蹦打 (sìlù bēngdá) -- meaning “Four Ways of Jumping and Striking.”
This form is considered one of the most difficult to truly master and is usually taught as the last Long Fist barehand form in the YMAA curriculum. It is characterized by clean, sharp, continuous, and compact movements with hard power (Jing).
Si Lu Cha Quan (四路查拳, sìlù Cháquán) means “Fourth Way of Cha's Fist” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It originated from the Cha family and is one of the more famous styles of Long Fist, amongst Hua (華拳, Huáquán), Hong (紅拳, Hóngquán), and Pao (炮拳, Pàoquán). Training this form with a strong sense of opponent will help lead a student to a higher level of long range fighting.
Taizu Changquan (太祖長拳, Tàizǔ chángquán) means “Taizu Long Fist” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It is said that Emperor Taizu created this sequence in the Song Dynasty. The techniques should enhance a student's Long Fist knowledge and abilities.
Ti Fa Dui Lian (踢法對練, tīfǎ duìliàn) means “Kicking Matching Practice” and is a 2-person barehand exercise. The goal is to train reaction, timing, and distance in defending against straight kicks. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Crane Low Hooking Hand (鶴下鉤手, hè xià gōushǒu)
- External Up Hooking (外上鉤, wài shànggōu)
- Internal Up Hooking (內上鉤, nèi shànggōu)
- Low Intercepting Hand (下截手, xià jiéshǒu)
- Low Neutralizing Leg (下化腿, xiàhuà tuǐ)
Xiao Hu (嘯虎, xiàohǔ) means “Tiger Roar.” Yan (燕, yàn) means “swallow,” but may also indicate a surname. This intermediate barehand form is from Northern Shaolin Long Fist. It is a Praying Mantis sequence that was adapted into Long Fist.
Yao Gu (搖鼓, yáogǔ) means “Shake the Drum” and is an intermediate Shaolin White Crane barehand form. It is a Taizuquan sequence based on the Tiger Claw and White Crane styles. The entire form emphasizes short Jin training and was originally designed for a short, stocky student.
Yi Lu Mai Fu (一路埋伏, yīlù máifú) means “The First Way of Ambush.” It is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist sequence that includes some middle-level kicking techniques. Not only are power and form required, but also speed and agility. At this level, students must also develop a more natural understanding of martial applications. This sequence will build your foundation for Long Fist.
Bai He (白鶴, báihè) simply means “White Crane.” This barehand form is a compilation of 4 Shaolin White Crane sequences: Qi Xing, Shan He, Gong He, and Ba Mei Shou. It introduces typical White Crane techniques and Jin patterns.
Yao Gu (搖鼓, yáogǔ) means “Shake the Drum” and is an intermediate Shaolin White Crane barehand form. It is a Taizuquan sequence based on the Tiger Claw and White Crane styles. The entire form emphasizes short Jin training and was originally designed for a short, stocky student.
Qi Xing (七星, qīxīng) means “Seven Stars” and is a Shaolin White Crane form. It is the first barehand solo sequence in White Crane. Although there are only a few techniques, the sequence includes 3 basic Jins that are essential for all White Crane stylists so master.
San Lu Pao (三路跑, sānlùpǎo) means “Three Ways of Running” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Sometimes Pao is translated as 炮 (pào), which means explosiveness. This form trains speed, root, and power (Jin). This level requires a strong sense of opponent. The techniques must become more alive and less like a recited exhibition. Notably longer than previous sequences, San Lu Pao requires endurance. This form will serve as the foundation to all of your subsequent advanced Long Fist training.
Kong Shou Dui Gun (空手對棍, kōngshǒu duìgùn) means “Barehand vs. Staff.” It is a 2-person Shaolin White Crane form designed to train a barehand fighter in maneuvering in and out of a staff opponent's effective fighting range. While the form mostly emphasizes the barehand side, the staff practitioner does train footwork and distancing. White Crane fundamentals are a requisite.
Chai Shou (拆手, cháishǒu) means “Barehand Breakdown.” The name implies the analysis barehand techniques. Students are expected to create a 2-person matching set utilizing both White Crane and Long Fist philosophies. White Crane should be used primarily when in short range, while Long Fist should be used when in long range.
Beng Bu (崩步, bēngbù) means “Forceful Stepping” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist barehand form. Although there are many similarities to the Beng Bu of the Praying Mantis style, this form is an alternative version trained in Long Fist.
Xiao Hu (嘯虎, xiàohǔ) means “Tiger Roar.” Yan (燕, yàn) means “swallow,” but may also indicate a surname. This intermediate barehand form is from Northern Shaolin Long Fist. It is a Praying Mantis sequence that was adapted into Long Fist.
Kongshou Dui Dandao (空手對單刀, kōngshǒu duì dāndāo) means “Barehand vs. Single Saber.” At this level, students should have learned enough techniques to construct a 2-person barehand vs. saber matching set. Together with a partner, students must work together to analyze and compile techniques together into a workable sequence.
Ba Mei Shou (八枚手, bāméi shǒu) means “Eight Petals Hands” and is a Shaolin White Crane barehand form. This is an extended version that also includes Da Yao (Large Shaking) and Ti Gua (Kicking Trigram). Da Yao and Ti Gua are intermediate sequences, while Ba Mei Shou is an advanced one.
Pan Shou (盤手, pánshǒu) means “Bridging Hands,” or “Connecting Hands” and is a set of 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand exercises designed to train specific blocks and strikes. It is also know as Qiao Shou (橋手, qiáoshǒu) -- meaning literally “Bridge Hands,” or Da Qiao (搭橋, dāqiáo) -- meaning “Building a Bridge.” The Wing Chun style variant is called Qi Sao. This Pan Shou set is one of the first exercises a beginner student should learn to become acquainted with a limited set of basic stances and hand forms.
- Single Low Cover Hand (單下蓋手, dān xiàgàishǒu)
- Double Low Cover Hand (雙下蓋手, shuāng xiàgàishǒu)
- Left and Right Intercepting Hand (左右截手, zuǒyòu jiéshǒu)
- Left, Right, and Low Intercepting Hand (左右下截手, zuǒyòuxià jiéshǒu)
- Upper Neutralizing Hand (上化手, shàng huàshǒu)
Pan Shou (盤手, pánshǒu) means “Bridging Hands,” or “Connecting Hands” and is a set of 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand exercises designed to train specific blocks and strikes. It is also know as Qiao Shou (橋手, qiáoshǒu) -- meaning literally “Bridge Hands,” or Da Qiao (搭橋, dāqiáo) -- meaning “Building a Bridge.” The Wing Chun style variant is called Qi Sao. This Pan Shou set introduces 5 more practice drills to further develop a student’s White Crane hand skills, including hooking, coiling, sticking, and adhering.
- Double Sticking Hands (雙纏手, shuāng chánshǒu)
- Single Sticking Hand (單纏手, dān chánshǒu)
- Sparrow Limbs (麻雀肢, máquè zhī)
- Low Neutralizing Hand (下化手, xià huàshǒu)
- Passing the Mountain Limbs (過山肢, guòshān zhī)
Ti Fa Dui Lian (踢法對練, tīfǎ duìliàn) means “Kicking Matching Practice” and is a 2-person barehand exercise. The goal is to train reaction, timing, and distance in defending against straight kicks. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Crane Low Hooking Hand (鶴下鉤手, hè xià gōushǒu)
- External Up Hooking (外上鉤, wài shànggōu)
- Internal Up Hooking (內上鉤, nèi shànggōu)
- Low Intercepting Hand (下截手, xià jiéshǒu)
- Low Neutralizing Leg (下化腿, xiàhuà tuǐ)
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this level, the primary goal is to maintain a safe distance. You will need to avoid 7 out of 10 arbitrary knife attacks. The attacker is allowed to use any technique, including swings, stabs, fakes, and hand switching. Students must learn how to read and react to the motions of the attacker. All of the fundamental training and conditioning from prior levels will be absolutely essential.
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this second level of barehand against dagger, the goal is still to avoid 7 out of 10 arbitrary knife attacks but now with a focus on not only successfully escaping and dodging, but also intercepting and counterattacking.
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this final level of barehand against dagger, you must once again be able to escape, dodge and counterattack any arbitrary knife attack 7 out of 10 times. However, this time you must utilize intercept attacks with a belt. This involves wrapping and deflection techniques covering the 8 corners of defense and attack.
Si Lu Ben Za (四路奔砸, sìlù bēnzá) means “Four Ways of Running and Smashing” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Alternative names include 四路奔打 (sìlù bēndá) -- meaning “Four Ways of Running and Striking” and 四路蹦打 (sìlù bēngdá) -- meaning “Four Ways of Jumping and Striking.”
This form is considered one of the most difficult to truly master and is usually taught as the last Long Fist barehand form in the YMAA curriculum. It is characterized by clean, sharp, continuous, and compact movements with hard power (Jing).
Gun Dui Dan Dao (棍對單刀, gùnduì dāndāo) means “Staff vs. Single Saber.” Using the knowledge learned from previous staff and saber training, students should now create a matching sequence for staff vs. saber. Every technique must have a purpose. The analysis, discussion, and refinement of each movement in the form will help students deepen their understanding and skill for both weapons.
Ziyou Gunfa Fanying Xunlian (自由棍法反應訓練, zìyóu gùnfǎ fǎnyìng xùnliàn) means “Freestyle Staff Reaction Training.” You and your partner must attack each other with staffs while moving in either a straight line or circles. Both linear and circling techniques must be present. Sticking and coiling techniques should be applied in defense, and your reaction should feel comfortable and natural. Students should wear protective gear, particularly for the fingers, wrists, eyes, and head.
Ziyou Gunfa Fanying Xunlian (自由棍法反應訓練, zìyóu gùnfǎ fǎnyìng xùnliàn) means “Freestyle Staff Reaction Training.” You and your partner must attack each other with staffs while advancing or retreating only in a straight line. You must be able to react naturally and accurately without too much guessing or anticipation. Body protective gear is required, specifically for the fingers, wrists, eyes, and head.
Jiandan Gun Fa Duilian (簡單棍法對練, jiǎndān gùnfǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Staff Matching Practice” and is a 2-person exercise. The goal is to solidify staff handling, stances, and footwork. The first 4 techniques are from the Qi Mei Gun sequences. The fifth form consists of attacking and defending in a more freestyle manner, as if in a light contact sparring session. Students should develop an awareness of attacking various targets while still being able to defend the 4 major points.
- Tangle Staff - Circle and Press Down (絞棍 - 轉圈下壓法, jiǎogùn - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Intercept Upward - Circle and Press Down (上架 - 轉圈下壓法, shàngjià - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Slide Sideways - Circle and Press Down (側滑 - 轉圈下壓法, cèhuá - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Neutralize Low and Lift Upward (下化上撩法), xiàhuà shàngliáo fǎ )
- Four Points Free Sparring (四點自由對擊, sìdiǎn zìyóu duìjī)
Jiandan Jianfa Duilian (簡單劍法對練, jiǎndān jiànfǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Swordplay Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the Chinese sword. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in correct sword theory.
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this level, students must counterattack 10 Chin Na techniques with another Chin Na technique. Students must yield and redirect an opponent’s power in order to practically and successfully setup a counterattack technique. You may use Chin Na techniques that were not in previous ranks.
Jiandan Daofa Duilian (簡單刀法對練, jiǎndān dāofǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Saber Matching Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the saber. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in correct saber theory.
Dagger Defense (匕首防身法, bǐshǒu fángshēn fǎ) consists of 10 Chin Na techniques against opponents with a dagger or other short weapon. Concepts include maintaining correct distance, awareness of vulnerabilities, and stepping strategies. After learning this set, students are encouraged to explore additional dagger defense strategies utilizing techniques from Chin Na and Shuai Jiao.
Shuai Jiao (摔跤), shuāijiāo) encompasses wrestling and takedowns. It is one of the 4 major categories of martial arts. There are 10 takedown techniques in this set. From these 10, others can be derived. Because it involves close-range fighting, many techniques naturally leverage off of Chin Na as well. Students must also learn how to properly break their falls and to condition their muscles, tendons, and joints.
Shang Xia Zhi (上下肢, shàngxià zhī) means “Upper and Lower Limbs” and is a 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand form. It emphasizes simple techniques that teach the student how the hands are used in the White Crane style. This sequence is primarily made up of 8 punches and 8 blocks, but from this limited set of movements comes the 64 basic White Crane hand techniques. It will form the basis for more advanced White Crane practice. There are 2 sections to this sequence, simple and complex.
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this rank, students should have already have a gained solid understanding of how to smoothly apply Chin Na in various martial contexts. Of the roughly 120 YMAA Chin Na techniques, students should select only 10 for study. The primary goal of Chin Na 1, 2, and 3 is not to simply learn as many techniques as possible, but rather to refine a very select subset. If students can master a few techniques well, then they should be able to apply the same learning process to achieve a high level of quality in other techniques later.
Sha Shou Jian (殺手鐧, shāshǒu jiǎn) means “Killing Hands Rods” and is sometimes also called Shuang Jian (雙鐧, shuāng jiǎn), meaning “Double Rods.” It is a Shaolin White Crane double-weapon form. The rods can be either wood or metal. Techniques in this form can be readily applied to other double weapons, including double saber, double sword, and double hook sword.
Jiandan Jian-Dao Fa Duilian (簡單劍刀法對練, jiǎndān jiàndāofǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Sword Saber Matching Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the sword and saber. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in each weapon.
Taizu Changquan (太祖長拳, Tàizǔ chángquán) means “Taizu Long Fist” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It is said that Emperor Taizu created this sequence in the Song Dynasty. The techniques should enhance a student's Long Fist knowledge and abilities.
Bagua Dao (八卦刀, bāguà dāo) means “Eight Trigrams Saber” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist saber form. It originates from Bagua, an internal style of martial arts, and was adapted into the Long Fist style. The Bagua saber is larger and heavier than its Long Fist counterpart.
Shi Zi Tang (十字趟, shízì tàng) means “Cross-shaped Trip” and is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Initial versions of the sequence followed a cross-shaped walking pattern, like the Chinese character for the number 10 (十). Although the form evolved over time, the name was never changed.
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. It includes joint locks and cavity press techniques. Altogether, it is estimated that over 800 Chin Na techniques exist in martial arts. The YMAA system consists of about 120. As this is an introductory level, the goal is to understand the correct angles for successfully locking an opponent and a building a general awareness for methods of entry without exposing vulnerabilities. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Small Wrap Hand (小纏手, xiǎochánshǒu)
- Roast Peking Duck (北京烤鴨, Běijīng kǎoyā)
- Feudal Lord Invites to Dinner (霸王請客, bàwáng qǐngkè)
- Upper Hooking Hand (上刁手, shàngdiāoshǒu)
- Push the Boat to Follow the Stream (順水推舟, shùnshuǐ tuīzhōu)
Er Lu Mai Fu (二路埋伏, èrlù máifú) means “The Second Way of Ambush” and is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist sequence that is very similar to Yi Lu Mai Fu. It introduces a few new techniques and strategies that expand upon the Mai Fu forms’ style of practice. Speed and agility are still the goals of this level, in addition to the power and form developed in previous sequences.
Yi Lu Mai Fu (一路埋伏, yīlù máifú) means “The First Way of Ambush.” It is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist sequence that includes some middle-level kicking techniques. Not only are power and form required, but also speed and agility. At this level, students must also develop a more natural understanding of martial applications. This sequence will build your foundation for Long Fist.
Dan Dao Dui Qiang (單刀對槍, dāndāo duìqiāng) means “Single Saber vs. Spear” and is a traditional Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It gives students an example how a short weapon can defend against a long weapon. Sometimes this form is also called Dan Dao Po Hua Qiang (單刀破花槍, dāndāo pò huāqiāng), meaning “Single Saber Destroys Lively Spear.”
Kun Wu Jian (三才對劍, Kūnwu jiàn) means “Kun Wu Sword” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. Kun Wu is the name of a mountain in the Shandong province of China, where this form is believed to have originated from. This sword sequence teaches intermediate level techniques.
Kun Wu Gun (崑吾棍, Kūnwú gùn) means “Kun Wu Staff.” Kun Wu is the name of a mountain in the Shandong province of China, where this form is believed to have originated from. This form is a basic staff sequence of Northern Shaolin Long Fist. The handling of the staff, application of power, and stepping all focus on long range fighting.
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this level, students must execute techniques with improved fluidity and less hesitation. Speed is not necessary, as accuracy and attention to detail are more important at this stage. Students should already have a preliminary understanding of correct Chin Na angles. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Back Wrap Hand (反纏手, fǎnchánshǒu)
- Large Wrap Elbow (大纏肘, dàchánzhǒu)
- Turn Back to Seize the Ape (回頭擒猿, huítóu qínyuán)
- Bow to Show Courtesy (鞠躬行禮, jūgōng xínglǐ)
- Old Man Promoted to General (老漢拜將, lǎohàn bàijiàng)
Qi Men (戚門劍, Qīmén jiàn) means “Qi Family Sword” and is the a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. It was created in the Ming Dynasty by General Qi, who was very famous for his spear and sword techniques.
San Cai Jian (三才劍, sāncáijiàn) means “Three Powers Sword” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. The three powers are what the Chinese consider to be the three most powerful forces in this world: Heaven, Earth, and Man. San Cai Jian is a basic yet well-known sequence in Long Fist. The Chinese straight sword is very flexible, so the application of Qigong techniques are necessary to defend against heavier, longer, or stronger weapons.
San Cai Dui Jian (三才對劍, sāncái duìjiàn) means “Three Powers Sword Matching” and is a 2-person Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword versus sword form. It naturally follows the practice of San Cai Jian, the solo version. The first and second halves of San Cai Jian actually match each other in exchanging offensive and defensive techniques. Through this practice, students will gain a better understanding of sword applications.
Qi Mei Gun (齊眉棍, qíméigùn) means “Equal Eyebrow Staff” and is a Shaolin White Crane staff form. The techniques are designed for a staff as tall as the practitioner's eyebrows. It is a basic form that introduces students to long weapons practice.
Si Lu Cha Quan (四路查拳, sìlù Cháquán) means “Fourth Way of Cha's Fist” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It originated from the Cha family and is one of the more famous styles of Long Fist, amongst Hua (華拳, Huáquán), Hong (紅拳, Hóngquán), and Pao (炮拳, Pàoquán). Training this form with a strong sense of opponent will help lead a student to a higher level of long range fighting.
Gun Dui Shuang Jian (棍對雙鐧, gùnduì shuāngjiǎn) means “Staff vs. Double Rods.” At this level, students must have a firm grasp of fundamental Shaolin White Crane principles and should be capable of constructing a 2-person matching set based on Qi Mei Gun and Sha Shou Jian. The applications presented must be realistic, practical, and logical.
Gong Li Quan (功力拳, gōnglì quán) means “Power Sequence.” It is the second barehand sequence trained in Northern Shaolin Long Fist. Like Lian Bu Quan, this sequence was developed by the Jingwu Association. While Lian Bu Quan serves as a student's first introduction to forms, Gong Li Quan is an introduction to martial applications and power. Power generation in the legs and hips is especially important.
Qi Mei Dui Gun (齊眉對棍, qíméi duìgùn) means “Eyebrow Staff Matching.” It is a choreographed Shaolin White Crane staff versus staff form based on movements from Qi Mei Gun. This form train students to develop a better sense of distance, power, rooting, and martial applications.
Qi Xing Dao (七星刀, qīxīng dāo) means “Seven Star Saber.” It is a basic saber form in Northern Shaolin Long Fist that introduces students to the art of short weapons practice. The saber is considered the leader of short weapons. At least 60 percent of saber techniques are shared by all other short weapons.
Er Lu Qiang (二路槍, èrlù qiāng) means “The Second Way of Spear.” It originated from the Yang family during the Song dynasty and is considered a Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. The Yang family was famous for their spear abilities and had 13 spear sequences. This form is believed to be the second. Spear is considered the king of long weapons.
Lian Bu Quan (連步拳, liánbù quán) means “Continuous Stepping Sequence.” It is the first and most fundamental Northern Shaolin Long Fist form and was trained in the Jingwu Association. This form is usually taught as an introduction to footwork and postures, particularly strategies for advancing and withdrawing in long-range fighting. Stability and fluency in stances is essential prior to learning this sequence.
1st Rank
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. It includes joint locks and cavity press techniques. Altogether, it is estimated that over 800 Chin Na techniques exist in martial arts. The YMAA system consists of about 120. As this is an introductory level, the goal is to understand the correct angles for successfully locking an opponent and a building a general awareness for methods of entry without exposing vulnerabilities. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Small Wrap Hand (小纏手, xiǎochánshǒu)
- Roast Peking Duck (北京烤鴨, Běijīng kǎoyā)
- Feudal Lord Invites to Dinner (霸王請客, bàwáng qǐngkè)
- Upper Hooking Hand (上刁手, shàngdiāoshǒu)
- Push the Boat to Follow the Stream (順水推舟, shùnshuǐ tuīzhōu)
Pan Shou (盤手, pánshǒu) means “Bridging Hands,” or “Connecting Hands” and is a set of 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand exercises designed to train specific blocks and strikes. It is also know as Qiao Shou (橋手, qiáoshǒu) -- meaning literally “Bridge Hands,” or Da Qiao (搭橋, dāqiáo) -- meaning “Building a Bridge.” The Wing Chun style variant is called Qi Sao. This Pan Shou set is one of the first exercises a beginner student should learn to become acquainted with a limited set of basic stances and hand forms.
- Single Low Cover Hand (單下蓋手, dān xiàgàishǒu)
- Double Low Cover Hand (雙下蓋手, shuāng xiàgàishǒu)
- Left and Right Intercepting Hand (左右截手, zuǒyòu jiéshǒu)
- Left, Right, and Low Intercepting Hand (左右下截手, zuǒyòuxià jiéshǒu)
- Upper Neutralizing Hand (上化手, shàng huàshǒu)
Lian Bu Quan (連步拳, liánbù quán) means “Continuous Stepping Sequence.” It is the first and most fundamental Northern Shaolin Long Fist form and was trained in the Jingwu Association. This form is usually taught as an introduction to footwork and postures, particularly strategies for advancing and withdrawing in long-range fighting. Stability and fluency in stances is essential prior to learning this sequence.
Shang Xia Zhi (上下肢, shàngxià zhī) means “Upper and Lower Limbs” and is a 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand form. It emphasizes simple techniques that teach the student how the hands are used in the White Crane style. This sequence is primarily made up of 8 punches and 8 blocks, but from this limited set of movements comes the 64 basic White Crane hand techniques. It will form the basis for more advanced White Crane practice. There are 2 sections to this sequence, simple and complex.
2nd Rank
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this level, students must execute techniques with improved fluidity and less hesitation. Speed is not necessary, as accuracy and attention to detail are more important at this stage. Students should already have a preliminary understanding of correct Chin Na angles. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Back Wrap Hand (反纏手, fǎnchánshǒu)
- Large Wrap Elbow (大纏肘, dàchánzhǒu)
- Turn Back to Seize the Ape (回頭擒猿, huítóu qínyuán)
- Bow to Show Courtesy (鞠躬行禮, jūgōng xínglǐ)
- Old Man Promoted to General (老漢拜將, lǎohàn bàijiàng)
Pan Shou (盤手, pánshǒu) means “Bridging Hands,” or “Connecting Hands” and is a set of 2-person Shaolin White Crane barehand exercises designed to train specific blocks and strikes. It is also know as Qiao Shou (橋手, qiáoshǒu) -- meaning literally “Bridge Hands,” or Da Qiao (搭橋, dāqiáo) -- meaning “Building a Bridge.” The Wing Chun style variant is called Qi Sao. This Pan Shou set introduces 5 more practice drills to further develop a student’s White Crane hand skills, including hooking, coiling, sticking, and adhering.
- Double Sticking Hands (雙纏手, shuāng chánshǒu)
- Single Sticking Hand (單纏手, dān chánshǒu)
- Sparrow Limbs (麻雀肢, máquè zhī)
- Low Neutralizing Hand (下化手, xià huàshǒu)
- Passing the Mountain Limbs (過山肢, guòshān zhī)
Shuai Jiao (摔跤), shuāijiāo) encompasses wrestling and takedowns. It is one of the 4 major categories of martial arts. There are 10 takedown techniques in this set. From these 10, others can be derived. Because it involves close-range fighting, many techniques naturally leverage off of Chin Na as well. Students must also learn how to properly break their falls and to condition their muscles, tendons, and joints.
Gong Li Quan (功力拳, gōnglì quán) means “Power Sequence.” It is the second barehand sequence trained in Northern Shaolin Long Fist. Like Lian Bu Quan, this sequence was developed by the Jingwu Association. While Lian Bu Quan serves as a student's first introduction to forms, Gong Li Quan is an introduction to martial applications and power. Power generation in the legs and hips is especially important.
Qi Mei Gun (齊眉棍, qíméigùn) means “Equal Eyebrow Staff” and is a Shaolin White Crane staff form. The techniques are designed for a staff as tall as the practitioner's eyebrows. It is a basic form that introduces students to long weapons practice.
3rd Rank
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this rank, students should have already have a gained solid understanding of how to smoothly apply Chin Na in various martial contexts. Of the roughly 120 YMAA Chin Na techniques, students should select only 10 for study. The primary goal of Chin Na 1, 2, and 3 is not to simply learn as many techniques as possible, but rather to refine a very select subset. If students can master a few techniques well, then they should be able to apply the same learning process to achieve a high level of quality in other techniques later.
Ti Fa Dui Lian (踢法對練, tīfǎ duìliàn) means “Kicking Matching Practice” and is a 2-person barehand exercise. The goal is to train reaction, timing, and distance in defending against straight kicks. There are 5 techniques in this set.
- Crane Low Hooking Hand (鶴下鉤手, hè xià gōushǒu)
- External Up Hooking (外上鉤, wài shànggōu)
- Internal Up Hooking (內上鉤, nèi shànggōu)
- Low Intercepting Hand (下截手, xià jiéshǒu)
- Low Neutralizing Leg (下化腿, xiàhuà tuǐ)
Dagger Defense (匕首防身法, bǐshǒu fángshēn fǎ) consists of 10 Chin Na techniques against opponents with a dagger or other short weapon. Concepts include maintaining correct distance, awareness of vulnerabilities, and stepping strategies. After learning this set, students are encouraged to explore additional dagger defense strategies utilizing techniques from Chin Na and Shuai Jiao.
Yi Lu Mai Fu (一路埋伏, yīlù máifú) means “The First Way of Ambush.” It is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist sequence that includes some middle-level kicking techniques. Not only are power and form required, but also speed and agility. At this level, students must also develop a more natural understanding of martial applications. This sequence will build your foundation for Long Fist.
Er Lu Mai Fu (二路埋伏, èrlù máifú) means “The Second Way of Ambush” and is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist sequence that is very similar to Yi Lu Mai Fu. It introduces a few new techniques and strategies that expand upon the Mai Fu forms’ style of practice. Speed and agility are still the goals of this level, in addition to the power and form developed in previous sequences.
Qi Mei Dui Gun (齊眉對棍, qíméi duìgùn) means “Eyebrow Staff Matching.” It is a choreographed Shaolin White Crane staff versus staff form based on movements from Qi Mei Gun. This form train students to develop a better sense of distance, power, rooting, and martial applications.
4th Rank
Chin Na (擒拿, qínná) means “Seize and Control” and is applicable to all martial arts styles. In this level, students must counterattack 10 Chin Na techniques with another Chin Na technique. Students must yield and redirect an opponent’s power in order to practically and successfully setup a counterattack technique. You may use Chin Na techniques that were not in previous ranks.
Jiandan Gun Fa Duilian (簡單棍法對練, jiǎndān gùnfǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Staff Matching Practice” and is a 2-person exercise. The goal is to solidify staff handling, stances, and footwork. The first 4 techniques are from the Qi Mei Gun sequences. The fifth form consists of attacking and defending in a more freestyle manner, as if in a light contact sparring session. Students should develop an awareness of attacking various targets while still being able to defend the 4 major points.
- Tangle Staff - Circle and Press Down (絞棍 - 轉圈下壓法, jiǎogùn - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Intercept Upward - Circle and Press Down (上架 - 轉圈下壓法, shàngjià - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Slide Sideways - Circle and Press Down (側滑 - 轉圈下壓法, cèhuá - zhuànquān xiàyā fǎ)
- Neutralize Low and Lift Upward (下化上撩法), xiàhuà shàngliáo fǎ )
- Four Points Free Sparring (四點自由對擊, sìdiǎn zìyóu duìjī)
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this level, the primary goal is to maintain a safe distance. You will need to avoid 7 out of 10 arbitrary knife attacks. The attacker is allowed to use any technique, including swings, stabs, fakes, and hand switching. Students must learn how to read and react to the motions of the attacker. All of the fundamental training and conditioning from prior levels will be absolutely essential.
Xiao Hu (嘯虎, xiàohǔ) means “Tiger Roar.” Yan (燕, yàn) means “swallow,” but may also indicate a surname. This intermediate barehand form is from Northern Shaolin Long Fist. It is a Praying Mantis sequence that was adapted into Long Fist.
Qi Xing Dao (七星刀, qīxīng dāo) means “Seven Star Saber.” It is a basic saber form in Northern Shaolin Long Fist that introduces students to the art of short weapons practice. The saber is considered the leader of short weapons. At least 60 percent of saber techniques are shared by all other short weapons.
Kong Shou Dui Gun (空手對棍, kōngshǒu duìgùn) means “Barehand vs. Staff.” It is a 2-person Shaolin White Crane form designed to train a barehand fighter in maneuvering in and out of a staff opponent's effective fighting range. While the form mostly emphasizes the barehand side, the staff practitioner does train footwork and distancing. White Crane fundamentals are a requisite.
5th Rank
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this second level of barehand against dagger, the goal is still to avoid 7 out of 10 arbitrary knife attacks but now with a focus on not only successfully escaping and dodging, but also intercepting and counterattacking.
Ziyou Gunfa Fanying Xunlian (自由棍法反應訓練, zìyóu gùnfǎ fǎnyìng xùnliàn) means “Freestyle Staff Reaction Training.” You and your partner must attack each other with staffs while advancing or retreating only in a straight line. You must be able to react naturally and accurately without too much guessing or anticipation. Body protective gear is required, specifically for the fingers, wrists, eyes, and head.
Shi Zi Tang (十字趟, shízì tàng) means “Cross-shaped Trip” and is an intermediate Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Initial versions of the sequence followed a cross-shaped walking pattern, like the Chinese character for the number 10 (十). Although the form evolved over time, the name was never changed.
Kun Wu Gun (崑吾棍, Kūnwú gùn) means “Kun Wu Staff.” Kun Wu is the name of a mountain in the Shandong province of China, where this form is believed to have originated from. This form is a basic staff sequence of Northern Shaolin Long Fist. The handling of the staff, application of power, and stepping all focus on long range fighting.
Chai Shou (拆手, cháishǒu) means “Barehand Breakdown.” The name implies the analysis barehand techniques. Students are expected to create a 2-person matching set utilizing both White Crane and Long Fist philosophies. White Crane should be used primarily when in short range, while Long Fist should be used when in long range.
6th Rank
Kongshou Ru Bairen (空手入白刃, kōngshǒu rù báirèn) means “Barehand vs. Dagger.” In this final level of barehand against dagger, you must once again be able to escape, dodge and counterattack any arbitrary knife attack 7 out of 10 times. However, this time you must utilize intercept attacks with a belt. This involves wrapping and deflection techniques covering the 8 corners of defense and attack.
Ziyou Gunfa Fanying Xunlian (自由棍法反應訓練, zìyóu gùnfǎ fǎnyìng xùnliàn) means “Freestyle Staff Reaction Training.” You and your partner must attack each other with staffs while moving in either a straight line or circles. Both linear and circling techniques must be present. Sticking and coiling techniques should be applied in defense, and your reaction should feel comfortable and natural. Students should wear protective gear, particularly for the fingers, wrists, eyes, and head.
Sha Shou Jian (殺手鐧, shāshǒu jiǎn) means “Killing Hands Rods” and is sometimes also called Shuang Jian (雙鐧, shuāng jiǎn), meaning “Double Rods.” It is a Shaolin White Crane double-weapon form. The rods can be either wood or metal. Techniques in this form can be readily applied to other double weapons, including double saber, double sword, and double hook sword.
Beng Bu (崩步, bēngbù) means “Forceful Stepping” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist barehand form. Although there are many similarities to the Beng Bu of the Praying Mantis style, this form is an alternative version trained in Long Fist.
Gun Dui Shuang Jian (棍對雙鐧, gùnduì shuāngjiǎn) means “Staff vs. Double Rods.” At this level, students must have a firm grasp of fundamental Shaolin White Crane principles and should be capable of constructing a 2-person matching set based on Qi Mei Gun and Sha Shou Jian. The applications presented must be realistic, practical, and logical.
7th Rank
Jiandan Daofa Duilian (簡單刀法對練, jiǎndān dāofǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Saber Matching Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the saber. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in correct saber theory.
Qi Xing (七星, qīxīng) means “Seven Stars” and is a Shaolin White Crane form. It is the first barehand solo sequence in White Crane. Although there are only a few techniques, the sequence includes 3 basic Jins that are essential for all White Crane stylists so master.
San Lu Pao (三路跑, sānlùpǎo) means “Three Ways of Running” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Sometimes Pao is translated as 炮 (pào), which means explosiveness. This form trains speed, root, and power (Jin). This level requires a strong sense of opponent. The techniques must become more alive and less like a recited exhibition. Notably longer than previous sequences, San Lu Pao requires endurance. This form will serve as the foundation to all of your subsequent advanced Long Fist training.
Bagua Dao (八卦刀, bāguà dāo) means “Eight Trigrams Saber” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist saber form. It originates from Bagua, an internal style of martial arts, and was adapted into the Long Fist style. The Bagua saber is larger and heavier than its Long Fist counterpart.
Kongshou Dui Dandao (空手對單刀, kōngshǒu duì dāndāo) means “Barehand vs. Single Saber.” At this level, students should have learned enough techniques to construct a 2-person barehand vs. saber matching set. Together with a partner, students must work together to analyze and compile techniques together into a workable sequence.
8th Rank
Jiandan Jianfa Duilian (簡單劍法對練, jiǎndān jiànfǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Swordplay Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the Chinese sword. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in correct sword theory.
Jiandan Jian-Dao Fa Duilian (簡單劍刀法對練, jiǎndān jiàndāofǎ duìliàn) means “Simple Sword Saber Matching Practice” and is an exercise for evaluating a student's understanding of the sword and saber. With a partner, students must create 5 short repeating routines that demonstrate offensive and defensive techniques based in each weapon.
San Cai Jian (三才劍, sāncáijiàn) means “Three Powers Sword” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. The three powers are what the Chinese consider to be the three most powerful forces in this world: Heaven, Earth, and Man. San Cai Jian is a basic yet well-known sequence in Long Fist. The Chinese straight sword is very flexible, so the application of Qigong techniques are necessary to defend against heavier, longer, or stronger weapons.
Taizu Changquan (太祖長拳, Tàizǔ chángquán) means “Taizu Long Fist” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It is said that Emperor Taizu created this sequence in the Song Dynasty. The techniques should enhance a student's Long Fist knowledge and abilities.
Bai He (白鶴, báihè) simply means “White Crane.” This barehand form is a compilation of 4 Shaolin White Crane sequences: Qi Xing, Shan He, Gong He, and Ba Mei Shou. It introduces typical White Crane techniques and Jin patterns.
San Cai Dui Jian (三才對劍, sāncái duìjiàn) means “Three Powers Sword Matching” and is a 2-person Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword versus sword form. It naturally follows the practice of San Cai Jian, the solo version. The first and second halves of San Cai Jian actually match each other in exchanging offensive and defensive techniques. Through this practice, students will gain a better understanding of sword applications.
9th Rank
Si Lu Cha Quan (四路查拳, sìlù Cháquán) means “Fourth Way of Cha's Fist” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It originated from the Cha family and is one of the more famous styles of Long Fist, amongst Hua (華拳, Huáquán), Hong (紅拳, Hóngquán), and Pao (炮拳, Pàoquán). Training this form with a strong sense of opponent will help lead a student to a higher level of long range fighting.
Yao Gu (搖鼓, yáogǔ) means “Shake the Drum” and is an intermediate Shaolin White Crane barehand form. It is a Taizuquan sequence based on the Tiger Claw and White Crane styles. The entire form emphasizes short Jin training and was originally designed for a short, stocky student.
Kun Wu Jian (三才對劍, Kūnwu jiàn) means “Kun Wu Sword” and is a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. Kun Wu is the name of a mountain in the Shandong province of China, where this form is believed to have originated from. This sword sequence teaches intermediate level techniques.
Gun Dui Dan Dao (棍對單刀, gùnduì dāndāo) means “Staff vs. Single Saber.” Using the knowledge learned from previous staff and saber training, students should now create a matching sequence for staff vs. saber. Every technique must have a purpose. The analysis, discussion, and refinement of each movement in the form will help students deepen their understanding and skill for both weapons.
10th Rank
Si Lu Ben Za (四路奔砸, sìlù bēnzá) means “Four Ways of Running and Smashing” and is an advanced Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. Alternative names include 四路奔打 (sìlù bēndá) -- meaning “Four Ways of Running and Striking” and 四路蹦打 (sìlù bēngdá) -- meaning “Four Ways of Jumping and Striking.”
This form is considered one of the most difficult to truly master and is usually taught as the last Long Fist barehand form in the YMAA curriculum. It is characterized by clean, sharp, continuous, and compact movements with hard power (Jing).
Ba Mei Shou (八枚手, bāméi shǒu) means “Eight Petals Hands” and is a Shaolin White Crane barehand form. This is an extended version that also includes Da Yao (Large Shaking) and Ti Gua (Kicking Trigram). Da Yao and Ti Gua are intermediate sequences, while Ba Mei Shou is an advanced one.
Qi Men (戚門劍, Qīmén jiàn) means “Qi Family Sword” and is the a Northern Shaolin Long Fist sword form. It was created in the Ming Dynasty by General Qi, who was very famous for his spear and sword techniques.
Er Lu Qiang (二路槍, èrlù qiāng) means “The Second Way of Spear.” It originated from the Yang family during the Song dynasty and is considered a Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. The Yang family was famous for their spear abilities and had 13 spear sequences. This form is believed to be the second. Spear is considered the king of long weapons.
Dan Dao Dui Qiang (單刀對槍, dāndāo duìqiāng) means “Single Saber vs. Spear” and is a traditional Northern Shaolin Long Fist form. It gives students an example how a short weapon can defend against a long weapon. Sometimes this form is also called Dan Dao Po Hua Qiang (單刀破花槍, dāndāo pò huāqiāng), meaning “Single Saber Destroys Lively Spear.”
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