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Hsing I
Introduction : History : Curriculum : Articles
General History
There are a great many different versions of Hsing I's ancient origins,as it is generally regarded as the
oldest of the traditional Chinese internal arts. but much of the art is usually attributed to Yueh Fei. Apart from that, Ji Long-Feng, also
known as "Ji Jige," of the western-most part of Shanxi Province in China, along the Chung-nan mountain-range, is found in written
documentation as the first to teach the art of Hsing I during the early 1600's (Ming Dynasty).
Known as a "divine" master of spear-combat, Ji pondered: "I have protected myself in violent times with my
spear. Now that we are in a time of peace and our weapons have all been destroyed, if I am unarmed and meet the unexpected, how shall I defend
myself?"
He applied much of his spear tactical knowledge to unarmed combat, using what is called the
"Six Harmonies," or "Liu He," which are a set of linked internal and external mechanics to help produce the desired effects.
Two of Ji's famous students were from different provinces in China: Cao Jiwu was from Hebei and Ma Xueli
was from Henan province. These 3 provincial origins of the beginning players in Hsing I are what lends themselves to the names of the three
popular styles of Hsing I.
Although the art has been passed down through the ages and various modifications have been made to the
different sub-styles of Hsing I, much of the core of the art has been left intact.
Henan or Honan
Powerful swinging movements of the arms and the usage of many body parts for striking effectively.
Hebei or Hopei
Emphasis on larger and more extended postures, and strict yet precise movements.
Shanxi or Shansi
Smaller postures and the arms are held closer to the body. Light and agile footwork, with techniques practiced a bit "softer".
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