Baguazhang, or Eight Trigram Palm, is the most evasive and fluid of China's three internal martial arts. Created by Dong Haichuan in the 19th century, it is based on the Yi Jing (Book of Changes) and Daoist circle walking meditation. The hallmark of Bagua is continuous circular walking while executing palm changes, making it extremely difficult for opponents to target the practitioner.
Training begins with circle walking (Ding Shi), where students walk in a circle while holding specific postures. This develops leg strength, balance, and the ability to generate power while moving. Students then learn the Eight Mother Palms, which are the foundational techniques of the system. Advanced training includes the 64 Palms, various weapons (particularly the deerhorn knives and straight sword), and free-form sparring. Bagua emphasizes twisting and coiling movements, using the waist as the primary generator of power. The art is particularly effective for fighting multiple opponents, as the constant movement makes it difficult to be surrounded. Bagua practice promotes joint health, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance.