The Principles and Practice of Taijiquan: Volume Five - Weapons

This is the final installment of The Principles and Practice of Taijiquan series. The overarching concept of this five-volume series is that the art of taijiquan is governed by a set of guiding principles in conjunction with numerous practical methods for applying those principles. This approach to the study and practice of taijiquan pertains to both the civil and the martial aspects of the art. When we consider the martial applications of the art, we should strive to remain true to these guiding principles even while focusing on the practical methods of self-defense.This approach is particularly relevant to the study and practice of the weapons of taijiquan. Unlike the approach of most external styles of Chinese martial arts, in which the emphasis is on speed and the reliance upon muscular strength to overcome an armed opponent with one's own weapon, in taijiquan the practitioner must employ his or her weapon according to the principles laid down by the founders of the five major family styles. These principles are clearly explained in the first chapter of this volume as they apply to weapons in general. Subsequent chapters investigate the particular principles, methods for handling, and martial applications of each of the following weapons: -the single straight sword (dan jian) -the broadsword (dao) -the double broadswords (shuang jian) and the double straight swords (shuang jian)-the double cudgels (shuang jiǎn) and the double hook swords (shuang gou)-the short stick (bang)-the fan (shang)-the cane (zhang)-the long pole (chang gan)-the staff (gun)-the spear (qiang)-the halberd (guandao)-the two-section staff (chang xiao bang)As this list indicates, the range of weapons trained and practiced within the five family styles is quite extensive. Many taijiquan practitioners may only be familiar with the more common weapons, such as the straight sword, the broadsword, and the spear. The coverage in this volume is intentionally comprehensive in an attempt to present the full complement of taijiquan weaponry. A separate chapter is provided for each of the weapons identified in the above list, with the exception of the double straight swords and the double broadswords, which are covered in a single chapter, and also the double cudgels and the double hook swords, which are likewise addressed in a single chapter.For each weapon, there are specific sections describing the design and components of the weapon, exploring the history and derivation of the weapon, the methods for handling and wielding the weapon, the classically designated techniques for applying the weapon, and multiple examples illustrating the martial applications of the weapon. Hopefully, this level of detail will serve to further the understanding of those individuals who currently practice one or more weapons of the art. For novice practitioners seeking to take up their first weapon, or for those who want add another weapon to their arsenal, this survey should prove an invaluable tool in assisting them with making such a selection.