Bajiquan's training methods

Usually the training begins with static horse stance training (ma bu). In the beginning the purpose is to make the legs and mind stronger, later to build the internal body structure characteristic for Baji. Ma bu is a foundational exercise which is used by everyone from beginners to masters. In addition to standing, form training is also started in an early stage of training.

1. Small form (Xiao jia) Form training starts with the small form which is more or less similar in all lineages of Baji. The purpose is first to learn to move correctly and then to learn Baji's power generation method and to develop it in ones body. See video.

2. Big form (Da Jia) Using the power generation method developed with the small form, one tries to find the small moment when contact with the opponent occurs and to concentrate all power into that moment. In this phase one also starts the systematic hardening training of the body which gets harder along the way until a level is reached where one does not need to think about the opponent's punches anymore.


3. Long distance striking (Piguazhang) This is in fact a separate style whose first form has been taken into the Baji curriculum. Pigua zhang's speciality is the usage of the arms as whips and the elbows as axes. See video.


4. Pre-arranged pair training (Duijie) This method is used for gaining an understanding of the applications of the big form. The training consists of a fixed form where half of the form is for defence and the other half for attack and power release.


5. Six big openings (Liu da kai) The purpose is to break the opponents defence and to prepare ones own attack with the same movement. In this way defence and attack are combined into one whole.


6. Eight important methods (Ba da zhao) Training to use power in a fight. On this stage one traditionally becomes an indoor student.


7. Free fighting (San shou) Pair training without pre-arranged forms or rules.

8. Weapons training (Bingqi)

- Sabre (Dao)

- Sword (Jian)

- Stick (Gun)

- Long spear (Qiang) which Baji was famous for before the arrival of fire weapons.