What to read after Chinese Combatives: An Anthology?

According to traditional Chinese martial arts custom, instruction in the lethal arts were transmitted under strict secrecy. At the turn of the twentieth century, the martial arts had started to be taught publically with a focus on health. However, many fighting techniques were not shown or taught. As a result, today some systems are more well-known than others. This anthology brings together some of the lesser-known arts in one volume and some aspects of their theory, application, and place historical place in society.

The first two chapters by Shannon Phelps give a wonderful presentation of the Fu family Wudang arts—including the unique sixiangquan, a blending of liangyiquan, baguazhang, xingyiquan, and taijiquan under the genius of Fu Zhensong (1872–1953) and family.

Dr. Daniel Amos authored the next two chapters reflecting his studies of Southern Praying Mantis. His first-hand experience and scholarly background offered him a special view as an insider into the social aspects involving the practitioners. These include association with criminal associations, spirit possession for fighting application and protection, and the changing relationships within the “gongfu family.”

Chapters 5, 6 and 7 cover important concepts and practices of baijiquan an piguzhang as transmitted by Li Suwen (1864–1934) and brought to Taiwan by Liu Yunqiao (1909–1990). The authors stress the importance of fundamental training methods, starting from the static horse stance, to dynamic changing stances while incorporating various techniques performed with explosive issuing energy (fajing). Of particular interest for many will be the sections dealing with big spear (daqiang) training.

The final chapter provides a comprehensive overview of tongbei boxing history, styles, and principles, including special highlights of the White Ape system. The authors emphasize the traditional mindset, inner feelings, and overall fighting spirit needed to train the real high-level skills. Training methods and sample applications bring life to tongbei theory.

By providing great detail on the styles presented—along with associations with other noted styles and masters—this special anthology is an important reference for any interested in Chinese martial arts. I personally thank the authors for sharing their exceptional work.