Qian Kung Taiji Fan is a newer form from Kong Tong Mountain in Gansu Province. Though the fan is traditionally used for dancing and performing, Qian Kung Taiji Fan is a Kungfu fighting form, still beautiful yet fierce. Movements include cutting, thrusting, fanning and hitting.
Kongtong Mountain in Gansu Province is the birthplace of Kongtong Martial Arts, a branch of the Taoist school for lay disciples. The weapons used in Kongtong martial arts are small and short, soft and light, and somewhat strange, such as fans, dusters, and whips. This validates the fan as a traditional weapon from this mountain system.
The form represents a fusion of Kong Tong Mountain techniques with Wudang internal martial arts principles.
Section 1: Opening and Foundation
Opening Gesture - Qi Shi
起势 (Qǐ Shì)
Movement Description: Stand in natural stance with the fan closed, held at the side. Begin with three regulated breaths, drawing the fan across the body in a slow, ceremonial arc while shifting weight to establish root and center.
Deeper Meaning: The opening represents the transition from ordinary consciousness to martial awareness. In Daoist philosophy, this moment connects the practitioner with the primordial qi of heaven and earth, establishing the foundation for all subsequent movements.
Martial Application: This preparatory stance allows immediate assessment of surroundings while disguising combat readiness. The fan position provides instant protection of the centerline while maintaining deceptive casualness.
Reverence to Good, Dispel Evil
拜善除邪 (Bài Shàn Chú Xié)
Movement Description: Open the fan with a sharp flick while stepping forward into a bow stance. The fan sweeps in a purifying circle above the head, then cuts down diagonally to clear the space around the body.
Deeper Meaning: This movement embodies the Daoist principle of moral cultivation - honoring virtue while banishing negative influences. The circular motion represents the eternal cycle of yin and yang, while the cutting motion symbolizes the warrior’s commitment to righteousness.
Martial Application: The fan opening creates a distraction while the practitioner moves into attack range. The overhead sweep can deflect incoming weapons or strikes, while the diagonal cut targets the opponent’s neck or weapon arm.
Rest on the Ivory Bed
憩象床 (Qì Xiàng Chuáng)
Movement Description: Shift weight back into a cat stance while the fan closes partially. Draw the fan close to the chest in a protective embrace, then slowly extend it forward like placing something precious on a platform.
Deeper Meaning: The ivory bed represents purity and the receptive nature of the feminine principle (yin). This movement teaches the value of stillness and receptivity - sometimes the greatest strength lies in peaceful repose and patient observation.
Martial Application: This defensive position draws opponents forward while preparing a counter-attack. The fan position protects the vital organs while the extended motion can trap an opponent’s arm or deliver a sudden thrust to the solar plexus.
Wind Sweeps Residue of Cloud
風掃殘雲 (Fēng Sǎo Cán Yún)
Movement Description: Open the fan fully and sweep it horizontally from right to left, following with the body in a flowing turn. The movement should be like wind clearing away scattered clouds - effortless yet complete.
Deeper Meaning: This technique embodies the Daoist concept of wu wei (effortless action). Like wind naturally dispersing clouds, the martial artist should act with minimum effort for maximum effect, flowing around obstacles rather than forcing through them.
Martial Application: The sweeping motion can clear multiple attackers or weapons from one’s path. It can also be used to deflect projectiles or create space for escape. The fan’s edge can strike pressure points along the opponent’s arms or torso.
Turn Around to Pluck the Fruit
回身摘果 (Huí Shēn Zhāi Guǒ)
Movement Description: Execute a complete 180-degree turn while the fan traces a vertical circle. As the turn completes, “pluck” with a precise closing motion of the fan, as if gathering a precious fruit from a high branch.
Deeper Meaning: This movement represents the patience and timing required for spiritual cultivation. Like fruit that must ripen naturally, wisdom and skill cannot be forced but must be gathered at the proper moment through careful observation and perfect timing.
Martial Application: The spinning motion disorients attackers and changes the line of engagement. The plucking action can capture an opponent’s weapon, grab clothing, or deliver a precise strike to nerve points along the neck or arms.
Ride the Horse and Watch Flowers
騎馬觀花 (Qí Mǎ Guān Huā)
Movement Description: Sink into horse stance while the fan moves in figure-eight patterns at eye level. The movements should be relaxed and contemplative, like a leisurely rider observing beautiful scenery.
Deeper Meaning: This posture teaches the importance of maintaining inner calm while staying alert to one’s surroundings. The horse stance represents stability and endurance, while the flower-watching suggests appreciation of beauty even in martial situations.
Martial Application: The low stance provides maximum stability while the fan movements create a defensive barrier. The figure-eight pattern can trap multiple weapons simultaneously or deliver rapid strikes to different targets while maintaining continuous motion.
Section 2: Immortal Techniques
Gremlin Twines Foot
精怪纏足 (Jīng Guài Chán Zú)
Movement Description: Step forward into a twisted stance while the fan spirals around the supporting leg. The movement should suggest something mischievous and unpredictable wrapping around the foundation.
Deeper Meaning: This technique represents the trickster aspect of Daoist teaching - sometimes wisdom comes through playful misdirection rather than direct confrontation. The “gremlin” symbolizes the unpredictable forces that challenge us and ultimately make us stronger.
Martial Application: The twisting motion disguises attacks to the opponent’s legs while the fan can entangle their weapons or limbs. This technique is particularly effective against kicks or low attacks, using the attacker’s momentum against them.
Single Goose Leaves the Flock
孤雁離群 (Gū Yàn Lí Qún)
Movement Description: Rise up on one leg while the other extends behind. The fan spreads wide like a wing, and the practitioner moves forward with the grace and determination of a lone goose in flight.
Deeper Meaning: This movement embodies the courage to follow one’s own path even when it means leaving the safety of the group. In Daoist philosophy, true strength sometimes requires solitude and the willingness to venture into unknown territories.
Martial Application: The single-leg stance allows for rapid changes in direction while the extended leg can deliver powerful kicks. The fan position protects against attacks from multiple angles while enabling swift strikes to the head and neck region.
Spirit Dragon Extends Its Claw
神龍探爪 (Shén Lóng Tàn Zhǎo)
Movement Description: Coil the body low, then explode upward with the fan shooting forward like a dragon’s talon. The movement should embody the dragon’s combination of wisdom, power, and divine authority.
Deeper Meaning: The dragon represents the highest yang principle - active, creative, and transformative power. This technique teaches that true strength comes not from constant aggression but from the ability to be still and contemplative, striking only when action is absolutely necessary.
Martial Application: The coiling motion gathers energy while evading attacks, and the extension delivers maximum power to vital points. The fan can pierce through defenses to strike the throat, heart, or nerve centers with lethal precision.
Cut Across Eyes
橫斬眼前 (Héng Zhǎn Yǎn Qián)
Movement Description: Execute a sharp horizontal cut with the fan across the field of vision while stepping sideways. The movement should be decisive and final, like severing an illusion.
Deeper Meaning: This technique represents the Daoist concept of cutting through maya (illusion) to perceive reality clearly. Sometimes we must be willing to “cut away” our preconceptions and comfortable assumptions to see truth.
Martial Application: The horizontal cut targets the opponent’s vision and breathing by striking across the eyes and nose. The sideways step changes the angle of attack while maintaining distance, creating opportunities for follow-up techniques.
Rotate Yin and Yang
旋轉陰陽 (Xuán Zhuǎn Yīn Yáng)
Movement Description: Create continuous circular motions with the fan while the body rotates slowly. One hand holds the fan while the other traces complementary circles, representing the eternal dance of opposing forces.
Deeper Meaning: This movement embodies the fundamental Daoist principle of yin-yang balance. All phenomena arise from the interaction of these complementary forces, and harmony comes from understanding their eternal dance rather than trying to force dominance of one over the other.
Martial Application: The rotating motions create a defensive sphere around the practitioner while generating momentum for powerful strikes. This technique can deflect attacks from any direction while building energy for devastating counter-attacks.
White Ape Offers Fruit
白猿獻果 (Bái Yuán Xiàn Guǒ)
Movement Description: Crouch low, then spring up with an offering gesture, extending the fan forward as if presenting a precious gift. The movement should combine the ape’s agility with an attitude of respectful generosity.
Deeper Meaning: This technique honors Immortal Sun Wukong (the Monkey King) and represents the paradox of strength through humility. The white ape symbolizes pure intention - power without ego, skill without arrogance.
Martial Application: The crouching position evades high attacks while gathering energy for explosive upward strikes. The offering motion can deliver deceptive thrusts to the opponent’s midsection or create openings by appearing non-threatening.
Black Dragon Waves Its Tail
黑龍擺尾 (Hēi Lóng Bǎi Wěi)
Movement Description: Turn the body while the fan sweeps in a powerful arc behind, like a dragon’s tail creating wind and thunder. The movement should express both grace and tremendous latent power.
Deeper Meaning: The black dragon represents the yin aspect of dragon energy - mysterious, deep, and connected to water and wisdom. This movement teaches that power expressed through curves and spirals can be more effective than direct force.
Martial Application: The tail sweep can clear attackers from behind while the turning motion redirects frontal attacks. The fan can strike with devastating force to the kidneys, spine, or back of the head while maintaining fluid motion.
Turn Over the River and Ocean
翻江倒海 (Fān Jiāng Dǎo Hǎi)
Movement Description: Execute a dramatic overhead throw of the fan followed by a sweeping recovery motion, as if overturning massive bodies of water through sheer force of will.
Deeper Meaning: This technique represents the Daoist teaching that internal cultivation can give one power over external circumstances. When inner harmony is achieved, even the greatest obstacles can be overcome with apparent ease.
Martial Application: The overhead motion can break through high defenses while the sweeping recovery creates a protective barrier. This technique can disarm opponents or deliver crushing blows to the collar bone and shoulders.
Section 3: Advanced Combinations
Embrace the Moon Under the Arms
懷中抱月 (Huái Zhōng Bào Yuè)
Movement Description: Draw the fan close to the chest in a protective embrace while stepping back into a deeper stance. The position should suggest holding something precious and luminous against the heart.
Deeper Meaning: The moon represents the receptive, intuitive wisdom of the feminine principle. This movement teaches that sometimes the greatest power comes from drawing inward, cultivating inner light rather than projecting external force.
Martial Application: This defensive position protects the vital organs while drawing opponents into vulnerable positions. From this stance, the fan can launch sudden attacks to the face and throat while the body remains protected.
Come Out Up and Down
上下齊出 (Shàng Xià Qí Chū)
Movement Description: Simultaneously extend the fan upward while stepping into a low stance, creating vertical opposition. The movement suggests energy flowing in both directions like a tree growing toward heaven while roots deepen into earth.
Deeper Meaning: This technique embodies the Daoist principle of connecting heaven and earth through human action. True power comes from being grounded in earth while reaching toward celestial wisdom, maintaining connection to both realms.
Martial Application: The dual-level attack confuses opponents by threatening high and low simultaneously. The fan can strike the head while the low stance enables leg sweeps or attacks to the opponent’s foundation.
The Monstrous Python Comes Out of Its Cave
巨蟒出洞 (Jù Mǎng Chū Dòng)
Movement Description: Begin coiled and low, then unwind in a sinuous extension forward, the fan leading like a serpent’s head emerging from its lair. The movement should embody both patience and sudden explosive power.
Deeper Meaning: The python represents the kundalini energy that lies dormant at the base of the spine. This movement teaches about awakening hidden power through patient cultivation and proper timing - power that has been conserved emerges with tremendous force.
Martial Application: The coiled position gathers maximum potential energy while presenting minimal target. The extension delivers piercing attacks with the fan while the body follows in an unpredictable serpentine path that’s difficult to counter.
Slice Robe and Break Off Friendships
割袍斷義 (Gē Páo Duàn Yì)
Movement Description: Execute a precise vertical cutting motion with the fan while stepping decisively away. The movement should express the sometimes painful necessity of severing attachments that no longer serve.
Deeper Meaning: This technique references the historical story of cutting one’s robe to end a friendship, representing the Daoist teaching that spiritual progress sometimes requires releasing even cherished relationships that hold us back from growth.
Martial Application: The vertical cut can slice through an opponent’s defenses or clothing to create vulnerabilities. The stepping motion creates distance while the cutting action can sever weapon straps or strike nerve points along the arms and torso.
Remove Flower and Replace with New
移花接木 (Yí Huā Jiē Mù)
Movement Description: Use the fan to deflect or redirect an imaginary attack while simultaneously launching a counter-attack from an unexpected angle. The motion should be like grafting - seamlessly joining what was separate.
Deeper Meaning: This movement teaches the art of transformation - taking what appears to be harmful and converting it into something beneficial. In Daoist alchemy, this represents the ability to transform lead into gold through inner cultivation.
Martial Application: This sophisticated technique redirects an opponent’s force while simultaneously attacking their weak points. It embodies the highest level of combat artistry - using the enemy’s strength against them while conserving one’s own energy.
Break Heart with Palm
掌劈心房 (Zhǎng Pī Xīn Fáng)
Movement Description: Close the fan and execute a powerful palm strike toward the center chest while stepping forward with complete commitment. The movement should express decisive action without hesitation.
Deeper Meaning: This technique represents the sometimes necessary destruction of illusions or attachments that keep us bound to suffering. The “breaking heart” refers to breaking through the emotional barriers that prevent spiritual awakening.
Martial Application: The palm strike with the closed fan delivers concentrated force to the heart center, potentially stopping the opponent’s breathing and circulation. This is considered a finishing technique requiring precise control and proper ethical justification.
Strike the Drum in Reverse
反打戰鼓 (Fǎn Dǎ Zhàn Gǔ)
Movement Description: Execute a backward striking motion with the fan while turning away from the target. The movement should suggest the unconventional tactics that can catch enemies off guard.
Deeper Meaning: This technique embodies the Daoist principle that sometimes the most effective action appears contrary to conventional wisdom. Like water that conquers rock through yielding persistence, indirect approaches can overcome direct force.
Martial Application: The reverse strike targets attackers approaching from behind while the turning motion creates confusion about the direction of the next attack. This technique is particularly effective against multiple opponents.
Slanting Body Reflect Shadow
斜身映影 (Xié Shēn Yìng Yǐng)
Movement Description: Lean the body at an extreme angle while the fan moves in the opposite direction, creating the impression of a reflection in disturbed water. The position should suggest both evasion and preparation for sudden action.
Deeper Meaning: This movement teaches about the relationship between appearance and reality. Like shadows that change with the light, our perception of truth shifts depending on our perspective and understanding.
Martial Application: The angled body position evades linear attacks while positioning for devastating angle-based counter-strikes. The fan can attack from unexpected vectors while the body remains difficult to target effectively.
Section 4: Power and Flow
Dark Dragon Coils a Pillar - Wu Long Jiao Zhu
烏龍繞柱 (Wū Lóng Rào Zhù)
Movement Description: Circle around an imaginary pillar with the fan tracing spiraling patterns while the body moves in a coiling motion. The movement should suggest both protection and the gathering of tremendous power.
Deeper Meaning: The dark dragon represents the mysterious, hidden aspects of power - the deep currents that move beneath surface appearances. Coiling around a pillar suggests both protection of sacred space and the building of energy through circular motion.
Martial Application: This technique allows the practitioner to control the fighting distance while building momentum for powerful strikes. The coiling motion can trap opponents against obstacles while the fan delivers continuous attacks from changing angles.
Pluck Grass to Search for the Snake - Ba Cao Xun She
撥草尋蛇 (Bō Cǎo Xún Shé)
Movement Description: Use the fan to part imaginary grass while moving cautiously forward, as if searching for a hidden serpent. The movement should express careful observation and readiness for sudden action.
Deeper Meaning: This technique represents the careful investigation required for spiritual development - the willingness to look beneath surface appearances to discover hidden truths, even when those truths might be dangerous or uncomfortable.
Martial Application: The grass-parting motion can clear defensive positions while the searching movement keeps the practitioner ready for sudden attacks from concealment. The technique emphasizes awareness and preparation over aggressive action.
Clever Dragon Peeks Its Head
狡龍探首 (Jiǎo Lóng Tàn Shǒu)
Movement Description: Move forward cautiously with the fan leading like a dragon carefully emerging from its lair. The movement should combine wisdom, caution, and the readiness to strike or withdraw instantly.
Deeper Meaning: This technique embodies the dragon’s wisdom - the ability to assess situations carefully before committing to action. True intelligence lies not in reckless bravery but in knowing when to advance and when to retreat.
Martial Application: The cautious advance allows gathering of information about the opponent’s capabilities while maintaining maximum options for attack or escape. The fan position provides instant protection while enabling quick strikes to vital points.
Gold Cicada Down the Tree
金蟬下樹 (Jīn Chán Xià Shù)
Movement Description: Begin in a high position, then descend rapidly while the fan protects the body like folded wings. The movement should suggest the swift, unexpected descent of an insect from its perch.
Deeper Meaning: The gold cicada represents transformation and rebirth - the ability to shed old forms and emerge renewed. This movement teaches about the power of change and the wisdom of knowing when to release old positions.
Martial Application: The rapid descent evades high attacks while positioning for low strikes to the opponent’s legs and foundation. The fan provides protection during the vulnerable transition while enabling immediate counter-attacks.
Spread the Wings and Fly at a Slant
展翅斜飛 (Zhǎn Chì Xié Fēi)
Movement Description: Open the fan wide while moving diagonally across the space, arms extended like wings in flight. The movement should express freedom, grace, and the ability to change direction effortlessly.
Deeper Meaning: This technique represents liberation from earthbound limitations. Like a bird that can see the landscape from above, spiritual cultivation gives us perspective that transcends immediate circumstances.
Martial Application: The diagonal movement creates confusion about the next attack direction while the wing-like extension can strike multiple targets simultaneously. This technique is particularly effective for escaping encirclement or attacking multiple opponents.
Sweep the Leaves in the Autumn Wind
秋風掃葉 (Qiū Fēng Sǎo Yè)
Movement Description: Execute broad, sweeping motions with the fan while moving across the space like wind clearing fallen leaves. The movement should express the natural, effortless power of seasonal change.
Deeper Meaning: This technique teaches about the power of natural timing and the wisdom of working with cosmic rhythms rather than against them. Autumn represents the time for clearing away what is no longer needed.
Martial Application: The sweeping motions can clear multiple attackers or weapons while the broad movement patterns make it difficult for opponents to predict the next strike direction. The technique emphasizes area control over precise targeting.
Section 5: Aerial Techniques
Phoenix Nods Head
鳳點頭 (Fèng Diǎn Tóu)
Movement Description: Execute a graceful dipping motion with the fan while the body bows slightly forward, like the majestic phoenix acknowledging worthy companions. The movement should express both dignity and humble recognition.
Deeper Meaning: The phoenix represents rebirth, transformation, and the feminine aspect of imperial power. This movement teaches about the balance between confidence and humility - true nobility acknowledges excellence wherever it appears.
Martial Application: The nodding motion can be a deceptive attack to the face or throat while appearing respectful. The movement also serves as excellent preparation for sudden upward strikes or as a way to draw opponents into vulnerable positions.
Dexterous Hands
巧手靈通 (Qiǎo Shǒu Líng Tōng)
Movement Description: Perform intricate hand and fan movements that showcase technical mastery, like a master craftsman demonstrating skill. The movements should flow together seamlessly, each gesture precise and purposeful.
Deeper Meaning: This technique celebrates the Daoist appreciation for skillful means - the ability to accomplish complex tasks through refined technique rather than brute force. Dexterity represents the mind’s ability to find elegant solutions to difficult problems.
Martial Application: The complex hand movements create multiple defensive barriers while disguising the preparation for decisive strikes. The technical mastery required for this technique often overwhelms opponents who cannot follow the rapid changes.
Black Bird Grazes Sand
玄鳥掠沙 (Xuán Niǎo Lüè Shā)
Movement Description: Move low and swift across the ground with the fan trailing like a wing touching the earth. The movement should suggest the bird’s ability to find sustenance even in barren places.
Deeper Meaning: The black bird (swallow) represents the ability to thrive in any environment through adaptability and persistence. This movement teaches about finding opportunities even in apparently resource-poor situations.
Martial Application: The low, swift movement evades high attacks while enabling strikes to the opponent’s legs and ankles. The trailing fan can trip opponents or strike vital points along the lower body while maintaining rapid mobility.
In Flies the Phoenix
鳳凰來儀 (Fèng Huáng Lái Yí)
Movement Description: Execute an ascending, spiraling movement with the fan creating elaborate patterns in the air, suggesting the arrival of the mythical phoenix with all its celestial majesty and grace.
Deeper Meaning: The phoenix’s arrival signifies auspicious times and the presence of virtue. This movement represents the cultivation of inner nobility that attracts positive circumstances and beneficial relationships.
Martial Application: The spiraling ascent creates a complex defensive pattern while building energy for powerful downward strikes. The elaborate fan movements can deflect multiple attacks while positioning for devastating aerial counters.
Remove the Clouds and Steal Fog
撥雲竊霧 (Bō Yún Qiè Wù)
Movement Description: Use the fan to create clearing motions in the air while stepping through the space as if parting mist and cloud. The movement should suggest the ability to see clearly through confusion and uncertainty.
Deeper Meaning: This technique represents the power of clear perception to dispel illusion and confusion. In Daoist philosophy, clouds and fog symbolize mental obscurations that prevent us from seeing reality clearly.
Martial Application: The clearing motions can deflect projectiles or weapons while the stepping pattern creates unpredictable movement that’s difficult to track. This technique is particularly effective in low-visibility situations.
Cut Off the Rope
斬斷繩索 (Zhǎn Duàn Shéng Suǒ)
Movement Description: Execute a sharp, decisive cutting motion with the fan while stepping forward with complete commitment. The movement should express the liberation that comes from severing binding attachments.
Deeper Meaning: The rope represents the karmic bonds and habitual patterns that keep us trapped in cycles of suffering. This movement teaches about the sometimes difficult but necessary action of cutting through limiting beliefs and relationships.
Martial Application: The cutting motion can sever weapon straps, clothing, or strike vital points along the arms and neck. The forward step demonstrates commitment to decisive action rather than tentative half-measures.
Wind Whirls Around Tree
風繞樹旋 (Fēng Rào Shù Xuán)
Movement Description: Circle around a fixed point while the fan creates continuous spiraling patterns, like wind swirling around a great tree without being able to move it from its roots.
Deeper Meaning: This movement teaches about the relationship between flexibility and stability. Like the tree that bends but doesn’t break, we can remain centered while adapting to changing circumstances.
Martial Application: The circling motion allows control of distance and timing while the spiraling fan creates continuous defensive barriers. This technique can exhaust opponents while conserving the practitioner’s energy through efficient movement.
Section 6: Master Level Techniques
The Swan Stands Erect Above the Chickens
鶴立雞群 (Hè Lì Jī Qún)
Movement Description: Rise into a one-legged stance with the fan held high and proud, expressing the natural superiority that comes from inner cultivation rather than external competition.
Deeper Meaning: This movement represents the state of enlightened awareness that naturally distinguishes itself without effort or arrogance. True nobility comes from inner development, not from putting others down.
Martial Application: The elevated position provides excellent vantage for observing multiple opponents while the single-leg stance enables rapid kicks and direction changes. The raised fan can strike downward with tremendous force.
Round the Mountain to Reveal Another Mountain
山重水複 (Shān Chóng Shuǐ Fù)
Movement Description: Execute a complex pattern that circles back on itself, suggesting the endless revelation of new perspectives as one travels the spiritual path.
Deeper Meaning: This technique teaches about the spiral nature of spiritual development - we often revisit the same issues at deeper levels, each time gaining new understanding and perspective.
Martial Application: The complex pattern confuses opponents about the true direction of attack while building momentum for powerful strikes. The circular movements can trap multiple attackers while maintaining continuous motion.
The Water Flows Downstream
水向低流 (Shuǐ Xiàng Dī Liú)
Movement Description: Allow the fan to flow downward and around obstacles with the natural grace of water finding its course. The movement should express effortless persistence and adaptability.
Deeper Meaning: This movement embodies the Daoist principle that yielding can overcome hardness, just as water eventually wears away the strongest stone through persistent, gentle action.
Martial Application: The flowing movement redirects the opponent’s force while finding openings in their defense. Like water, this technique finds the path of least resistance while maintaining constant pressure.
Fly Through the Air to Ferry the River
凌空渡水 (Líng Kōng Dù Shuǐ)
Movement Description: Execute a leaping motion with the fan extended for balance, suggesting the legendary ability of advanced practitioners to move across water without sinking.
Deeper Meaning: This technique represents the mastery of natural laws through spiritual cultivation. Advanced practitioners can transcend ordinary limitations through deep understanding of cosmic principles.
Martial Application: The leaping motion allows attacks from unexpected elevations while the extended fan provides balance and striking capability. This technique can overcome ground-based defenses and create dramatic tactical advantages.
Black Dog Swift Through Legs
烏犬穿襠 (Wū Quǎn Chuān Dāng)
Movement Description: Drop low and move swiftly through or around the opponent’s stance like a clever dog avoiding capture. The movement should express both humility and tactical intelligence.
Deeper Meaning: The black dog represents loyalty, intelligence, and the willingness to take humble positions when necessary. This movement teaches that there’s no shame in using low tactics when facing superior force.
Martial Application: The low movement evades high attacks while positioning for strikes to the groin, kidneys, and back of the legs. This technique is particularly effective against larger or stronger opponents.
Section 7: Closing Mastery
Flying Dragon Move Towards Phoenix
飛龍朝鳳 (Fēi Lóng Cháo Fèng)
Movement Description: Execute an ascending spiral with the fan while the body follows in graceful flight, suggesting the meeting of masculine and feminine cosmic principles in perfect harmony.
Deeper Meaning: This movement represents the union of opposites - the active, creative force of the dragon meeting the transformative, regenerative power of the phoenix. This union creates new possibilities beyond either principle alone.
Martial Application: The spiraling ascent builds tremendous momentum while the dragon-phoenix combination suggests attacks that are both powerfully direct and gracefully adaptive, overwhelming opponents through superior technique rather than mere force.
Cross
十字 (Shí Zì)
Movement Description: Create a cross pattern with the fan while standing in a centered, stable position. The movement should express the intersection of earthly and heavenly forces within the practitioner.
Deeper Meaning: The cross represents the intersection of horizontal (earthly) and vertical (heavenly) forces. This movement teaches about becoming the bridge between different realms of existence through balanced cultivation.
Martial Application: The cross pattern can deflect attacks from four directions simultaneously while creating opportunities for strikes along multiple vectors. This position provides maximum defensive coverage with minimum movement.
Taishan Mountain Press
泰山壓頂 (Tài Shān Yā Dǐng)
Movement Description: Raise the fan high overhead, then bring it down with the full weight and authority of China’s most sacred mountain. The movement should express irresistible natural force applied with precise timing.
Deeper Meaning: Mount Taishan represents the cosmic axis connecting heaven and earth. This movement teaches about applying force with the backing of natural law rather than personal ego - becoming a channel for cosmic justice.
Martial Application: The overhead position builds maximum gravitational force while the downward strike can crush through any defense. This technique represents the culmination of power development within the form.
Break Heart with Palm (Reprise)
掌劈心房 (Zhǎng Pī Xīn Fáng)
Movement Description: Close the fan and execute a final, decisive palm strike with complete commitment and focus. This represents the ultimate technique - direct, honest, and without hesitation or doubt.
Deeper Meaning: The repetition of this technique represents the circular nature of mastery - we return to simple, direct action but now with the backing of complete understanding and development.
Martial Application: As a finishing technique, this palm strike embodies all the power and wisdom developed through the entire form. It represents the ability to end conflict decisively when all other options have been exhausted.
The Wind Sways Water Lily
風搖荷花 (Fēng Yáo Hé Huā)
Movement Description: Create gentle, swaying motions with the fan like a lotus blossom moved by a soft breeze. The movement should express both delicacy and unshakeable rootedness.
Deeper Meaning: The water lily grows from mud but blooms in pure beauty, representing the soul’s ability to transcend difficult circumstances through spiritual cultivation. The wind’s gentle movement shows that flexibility preserves what rigidity would break.
Martial Application: The swaying motion makes targeting difficult while positioning for sudden, powerful strikes. The technique emphasizes timing and rhythm over force, using the opponent’s expectations against them.
Silk Thread Violently Sways
絲線狂搖 (Sī Xiàn Kuáng Yáo)
Movement Description: Create rapid, vibrating movements with the fan like a silk thread caught in a violent wind storm. The movement should express the power that can be generated through seemingly delicate motion.
Deeper Meaning: This final technique teaches that even the most delicate things contain tremendous potential energy. Like a silk thread that can cut through rock when vibrated at the proper frequency, refined technique can overcome brute force.
Martial Application: The rapid vibrations create an impenetrable defensive barrier while generating tremendous striking power through accumulated momentum. This technique represents the highest level of technical mastery within the form.
The Qian Kung Taiji Fan form represents a complete system of martial and spiritual development, integrating the wisdom of Kong Tong Mountain with Wudang internal cultivation methods. Each movement contains layers of meaning that unfold through dedicated practice, revealing deeper insights into both combat effectiveness and philosophical understanding. This style embodies the movement styles of the Eight Immortals, representing advanced training in the Wudang Sanfeng lineage.