Wudang Ziwu Qian - The Wudang Spear Form

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Introduction

The Wudang Ziwu Spear (武当紫武枪, Wǔdāng Zǐwǔ Qiāng) is one of the treasured weapon forms from Wudang Mountain’s martial arts tradition. Consisting of 72 postures, this elegant yet deadly form embodies the internal principles that make Wudang martial arts distinctive. The spear, known in Chinese as “qiang” (枪, qiāng), is revered as the “King of Weapons” in Chinese martial arts due to its battlefield effectiveness, reach, and versatility.

Wudang Ziwu Spear
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Historical Background

The spear has a rich history in Chinese warfare and martial arts. Famous generals throughout Chinese history were known for their spear prowess, making it one of the most respected weapons in traditional combat. The Wudang tradition incorporated the spear into its extensive weapons curriculum, developing the Ziwu Spear form as one of its advanced weapons training methods.

Wudang Mountain is known for its internal martial arts that emphasize the cultivation of qi (internal energy), smooth flowing movements, and the unity of mind and body. While Shaolin Temple became known for its staff techniques, Wudang Mountain gained fame for its sword and internal martial arts. The Ziwu Spear form represents the application of these internal principles to spear combat.

Characteristics of the Wudang Ziwu Spear

The Wudang Ziwu Spear form has several distinguishing characteristics:

  1. Unity of Body and Weapon: When practiced properly, the body and spear cannot be separated from each other. The spear moves in harmony with the body, becoming an extension of the practitioner.

  2. Smooth and Swift Movements: The entire set flows smoothly like “a leisure dragon playing with water,” combining grace with martial effectiveness.

  3. Internal Power: Unlike external styles that rely on brute force, the Wudang Ziwu Spear utilizes internal energy (qi) channeled through the body into the weapon.

  4. Versatile Techniques: The form includes techniques to parry overhead, press downward, thrust forward, and strike backward, making it effective for both offense and defense.

  5. Red Tassel: Traditional Chinese spears feature a red horsehair tassel just below the spearhead. This serves multiple purposes: it shows elite status, blurs the opponent’s vision during quick movements, and prevents blood from flowing down the shaft and making it slippery.

Traditional Chinese Spear Design

The traditional Chinese spear (qiang) typically consists of:

  • A long wooden shaft (usually made from waxwood for flexibility and strength)
  • A leaf-shaped metal blade at the tip
  • A red horsehair tassel beneath the blade
  • Sometimes a metal counterweight at the butt end

The length of a combat spear in ancient times could range from 1.8 meters to as long as 5 meters, though most modern practice weapons are around 2-2.5 meters in length.

Basic Spear Techniques

Before exploring the 72 postures of the Ziwu Spear form, it’s important to understand the fundamental techniques used in Chinese spear combat:

  1. Beng (崩, bēng) - Flicking or deflecting
  2. Chuo (戳, chuō) - Straight thrust
  3. Lan (拦, lán) - Blocking horizontally
  4. Na (拿, ná) - Controlling or seizing
  5. Zha (扎, zhā) - Stabbing downward
  6. Tiao (挑, tiāo) - Lifting upward
  7. Pi (劈, pī) - Chopping downward
  8. Dian (点, diǎn) - Point/poke
  9. Liao (撩, liāo) - Lifting upward from below
  10. Yun (云, yún) - Circling
  11. Jiao (绞, jiǎo) - Twisting or entwining
  12. Qian (牵, qiān) - Dragging or pulling

These basic techniques are combined and elaborated upon throughout the 72 postures of the Ziwu Spear form.

Training Methodology

The training of the Ziwu Spear form follows a specific progression:

  1. Stance Training: Developing a solid foundation through proper stance work
  2. Basic Techniques: Mastering the fundamental spear techniques
  3. Form Sequences: Learning the sequences of movements that make up the form
  4. Refining Mechanics: Focusing on the proper body mechanics and coordination
  5. Developing Internal Power: Cultivating the ability to channel internal energy through the spear
  6. Partner Drills: Practicing applications with a partner
  7. Free Expression: Spontaneous application of the principles and techniques

The 72 Postures of the Wudang Ziwu Spear Form

Below are the 72 postures of the Wudang Ziwu Spear form. Each posture is presented with its Chinese name, pinyin pronunciation, and English translation, followed by a brief explanation of the movement and its martial application.

Opening Section (1-10)

  1. 起势 (Qǐ Shì) - Opening Posture

    • Standing in wuji position, the practitioner centers the mind and prepares for the form.

  2. 挥枪式 (Huī Qiāng Shì) - Brandishing the Spear

    • The spear is brought to ready position with a circular flourish, establishing control and readiness.

  3. 左右望月 (Zuǒ Yòu Wàng Yuè) - Gazing at the Moon Left and Right

    • The spear tip traces circular patterns on both sides, establishing defensive perimeters.

  4. 青龙出水 (Qīng Lóng Chū Shuǐ) - Green Dragon Emerges from Water

    • A powerful upward thrust with forward stepping, resembling a dragon rising from beneath the water’s surface.

  5. 白蛇吐信 (Bái Shé Tǔ Xìn) - White Snake Flicks its Tongue

    • Quick, darting thrusts with the spear tip, mimicking a snake’s tongue.

  6. 猛虎下山 (Měng Hǔ Xià Shān) - Fierce Tiger Descends the Mountain

    • A forceful forward advance with descending spear pressure.

  7. 左右穿花 (Zuǒ Yòu Chuān Huā) - Threading Through Flowers Left and Right

    • The spear weaves through imaginary obstacles, developing precision and control.

  8. 回身点枪 (Huí Shēn Diǎn Qiāng) - Turn Body and Point Spear

    • A defensive turning movement followed by a precise counter-thrust.

  9. 推窗望月 (Tuī Chuāng Wàng Yuè) - Push Window and Gaze at Moon

    • A blocking movement followed by an upward circular pattern with the spear tip.

  10. 翻花舞枪 (Fān Huā Wǔ Qiāng) - Flower-Turning Spear Dance

    • A series of intricate circular movements demonstrating control and flexibility.

Middle Section (11-40)

  1. 顺水推船 (Shùn Shuǐ Tuī Chuán) - Push Boat Along Current

    • A flowing forward thrust that uses momentum and minimal force.

  2. 左右探海 (Zuǒ Yòu Tàn Hǎi) - Exploring the Sea Left and Right

    • Low sweeping movements with the spear to both sides.

  3. 卧龙摆尾 (Wò Lóng Bǎi Wěi) - Crouching Dragon Swings Tail

    • A low stance with sweeping horizontal spear movement.

  4. 仙人指路 (Xiān Rén Zhǐ Lù) - Immortal Points the Way

    • A precise pointing thrust with aligned body position.

  5. 燕子穿云 (Yàn Zi Chuān Yún) - Swallow Flies Through Clouds

    • Quick, darting movements with the spear tip at varying heights.

  6. 回马枪 (Huí Mǎ Qiāng) - Returning Horse Spear

    • A retreating step with a sudden counterattack.

  7. 拨草寻蛇 (Bō Cǎo Xún Shé) - Parting Grass to Seek Snake

    • Low probing movements with the spear tip, searching for targets.

  8. 金龙摆尾 (Jīn Lóng Bǎi Wěi) - Golden Dragon Swings Tail

    • A powerful sweeping motion with the spear from a solid stance.

  9. 白猿献果 (Bái Yuán Xiàn Guǒ) - White Ape Offers Fruit

    • An elevated spear position with precise control at the extended position.

  10. 青蛇出洞 (Qīng Shé Chū Dòng) - Green Snake Emerges from Cave

    • A sudden, direct thrust from a concealed position.

  11. 旋风扫叶 (Xuán Fēng Sǎo Yè) - Whirlwind Sweeps Leaves

    • Circular sweeping motions with the spear in all directions.

  12. 推山填海 (Tuī Shān Tián Hǎi) - Push Mountain Fill Sea

    • A powerful forward thrust using whole-body force.

  13. 玉女穿梭 (Yù Nǚ Chuān Suō) - Jade Lady Threads Shuttle

    • Intricate weaving patterns with the spear, demonstrating precision.

  14. 苍龙出岫 (Cāng Lóng Chū Xiù) - Azure Dragon Leaves its Den

    • A powerful emerging thrust from a low position.

  15. 猛虎扑食 (Měng Hǔ Pū Shí) - Fierce Tiger Pounces on Prey

    • A leaping attack with a direct forward thrust.

  16. 回身穿枪 (Huí Shēn Chuān Qiāng) - Turn Body and Thread Spear

    • A defensive turning movement followed by a threading attack.

  17. 流星赶月 (Liú Xīng Gǎn Yuè) - Meteor Chases Moon

    • A quick, diagonal upward thrust with forward momentum.

  18. 卧虎藏龙 (Wò Hǔ Cáng Lóng) - Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon

    • A low stance with concealed spear position, ready to strike.

  19. 海底针 (Hǎi Dǐ Zhēn) - Needle at Sea Bottom

    • A low, precise thrust aimed at the opponent’s lower areas.

  20. 迎风点枪 (Yíng Fēng Diǎn Qiāng) - Point Spear Against Wind

    • A precise thrust that penetrates opposing force.

  21. 凤凰点头 (Fèng Huáng Diǎn Tóu) - Phoenix Nods Head

    • A bobbing motion with the spear tip, creating unpredictability.

  22. 掠草寻蛇 (Lüè Cǎo Xún Shé) - Skimming Grass Seeking Snake

    • Low, horizontal movements searching for targets.

  23. 宿鹰捕兔 (Sù Yīng Bǔ Tù) - Perched Eagle Catches Rabbit

    • A sudden downward strike from an elevated position.

  24. 回身扑枪 (Huí Shēn Pū Qiāng) - Turn Body and Thrust Spear

    • A defensive turning movement with immediate counter-thrust.

  25. 白猿献桃 (Bái Yuán Xiàn Táo) - White Ape Offers Peach

    • An extended upward position demonstrating balance and control.

  26. 青龙探爪 (Qīng Lóng Tàn Zhǎo) - Green Dragon Extends Claws

    • A reaching movement with the spear extending the practitioner’s range.

  27. 猛虎出山 (Měng Hǔ Chū Shān) - Fierce Tiger Leaves Mountain

    • A powerful advancing thrust with forward momentum.

  28. 燕子抄水 (Yàn Zi Chāo Shuǐ) - Swallow Skims Water

    • A low, quick thrust that barely touches its target.

  29. 金针度海 (Jīn Zhēn Dù Hǎi) - Golden Needle Crosses Sea

    • A precisely aimed long-distance thrust.

  30. 百花献瑞 (Bǎi Huā Xiàn Ruì) - Hundred Flowers Offer Auspicious Signs

    • Complex flourishing movements demonstrating the practitioner’s mastery.

Final Section (41-72)

  1. 螳螂捕蝉 (Táng Láng Bǔ Chán) - Mantis Catches Cicada

    • A quick, precise capturing movement with the spear.

  2. 黄蜂入洞 (Huáng Fēng Rù Dòng) - Yellow Bee Enters Cave

    • A direct, penetrating thrust to a vulnerable target.

  3. 仙人指路 (Xiān Rén Zhǐ Lù) - Immortal Points the Way

    • A repeated position showing directional clarity.

  4. 猿猴摘果 (Yuán Hóu Zhāi Guǒ) - Monkey Picks Fruit

    • An elevated position with precise control at the extended range.

  5. 顺水推舟 (Shùn Shuǐ Tuī Zhōu) - Push Boat with Current

    • A variation of the earlier posture, using flowing momentum.

  6. 风摆荷叶 (Fēng Bǎi Hé Yè) - Wind Sways Lotus Leaf

    • Gentle swaying movements with the spear tip creating unpredictability.

  7. 青龙摆尾 (Qīng Lóng Bǎi Wěi) - Green Dragon Swings Tail

    • A sweeping motion with the spear from one side to another.

  8. 白蛇吐信 (Bái Shé Tǔ Xìn) - White Snake Flicks Tongue

    • Repeated quick, darting thrusts with the spear tip.

  9. 金猴献果 (Jīn Hóu Xiàn Guǒ) - Golden Monkey Offers Fruit

    • An extended upward position with balance and precision.

  10. 回身劈枪 (Huí Shēn Pī Qiāng) - Turn Body and Split with Spear

    • A turning defensive move followed by a downward splitting action.

  11. 左右穿花 (Zuǒ Yòu Chuān Huā) - Threading Flowers Left and Right

    • Repeating the earlier weaving pattern with greater complexity.

  12. 雁落平沙 (Yàn Luò Píng Shā) - Wild Goose Lands on Sandbar

    • A controlled downward movement with the spear.

  13. 回马枪 (Huí Mǎ Qiāng) - Returning Horse Spear

    • A repetition with greater speed and power.

  14. 风卷残云 (Fēng Juǎn Cán Yún) - Wind Rolls Up Scattered Clouds

    • Sweeping circular movements gathering force.

  15. 撩阴枪 (Liāo Yīn Qiāng) - Lifting Upward Groin Spear

    • A rising thrust targeted at the lower body.

  16. 横扫千军 (Héng Sǎo Qiān Jūn) - Horizontal Sweep of Thousand Troops

    • A wide, powerful horizontal sweep with the spear.

  17. 乌龙绞柱 (Wū Lóng Jiǎo Zhù) - Black Dragon Coils Around Pillar

    • Twisting, coiling movements with the spear.

  18. 回身点枪 (Huí Shēn Diǎn Qiāng) - Turn Body and Point Spear

    • A repeated turning movement with greater precision.

  19. 铁牛耕地 (Tiě Niú Gēng Dì) - Iron Ox Plows Field

    • A powerful downward and forward movement with the spear.

  20. 大鹏展翅 (Dà Péng Zhǎn Chì) - Great Roc Spreads Wings

    • A wide, expansive movement with the spear covering a large area.

  21. 双龙戏珠 (Shuāng Lóng Xì Zhū) - Twin Dragons Play with Pearl

    • Complex circular patterns with the spear tip.

  22. 仙人指路 (Xiān Rén Zhǐ Lù) - Immortal Points the Way

    • The third iteration, performed with greater internal focus.

  23. 青龙出水 (Qīng Lóng Chū Shuǐ) - Green Dragon Emerges from Water

    • A repetition with more powerful rising energy.

  24. 苍鹰捕兔 (Cāng Yīng Bǔ Tù) - Grey Eagle Catches Rabbit

    • A swooping downward attack from an elevated position.

  25. 推窗望月 (Tuī Chuāng Wàng Yuè) - Push Window and Gaze at Moon

    • A repeated pattern with greater refinement.

  26. 犀牛望月 (Xī Niú Wàng Yuè) - Rhinoceros Gazes at Moon

    • A solid stance with upward-directed spear.

  27. 灵猫捕鼠 (Líng Māo Bǔ Shǔ) - Agile Cat Catches Mouse

    • A quick, precise capturing movement.

  28. 神龙摆尾 (Shén Lóng Bǎi Wěi) - Divine Dragon Swings Tail

    • The final variation of the dragon tail sweep, performed with maximum integration.

  29. 仙鹤亮翅 (Xiān Hè Liàng Chì) - Immortal Crane Displays Wings

    • Graceful, extended movements with the spear.

  30. 回身点枪 (Huí Shēn Diǎn Qiāng) - Turn Body and Point Spear

    • The final iteration of this core movement.

  31. 收势前 (Shōu Shì Qián) - Preparation for Closing

    • Transitional movements preparing to conclude the form.

  32. 收势 (Shōu Shì) - Closing Posture

    • The form concludes with the practitioner returning to centered stillness.

Training Principles for Wudang Spear

To master the Wudang Ziwu Spear form, practitioners should observe these key principles:

  1. Integration of Body and Weapon: The spear should move as an extension of the body, not as a separate entity.

  2. Continuous Movement: Maintain flowing continuity between postures without interruption.

  3. Rooted Stability: Maintain a strong connection to the ground while executing techniques.

  4. Internal Power Generation: Use the dantian (丹田, energy center) to generate power rather than merely muscular strength.

  5. Spiraling Force: Apply spiral energy (chan si jin, 缠丝劲) through the spear rather than linear force.

  6. Breath Coordination: Coordinate breathing with movements, typically inhaling during preparation and exhaling during execution.

  7. Mental Focus: Maintain clear intention (yi, 意) throughout the form, guiding the spear’s energy.

  8. Balance Between Hard and Soft: Alternate between firm and yielding qualities at appropriate moments.

Martial Applications

The Wudang Ziwu Spear form is not merely a performance art but contains practical martial applications:

  1. Range Control: Techniques to maintain optimal fighting distance and prevent opponents from closing in.

  2. Multiple Opponents: Sweeping movements designed to handle multiple attackers.

  3. Weapon Neutralization: Methods to deflect, control, or disarm opposing weapons.

  4. Vital Point Striking: Precise thrusting techniques targeting vulnerable areas.

  5. Defensive Counters: Turning movements that simultaneously evade attacks while positioning for counterattack.

Training Progression

A suggested training progression for mastering the Wudang Ziwu Spear:

  1. Stance Training: Build foundation with basic stances (1-3 months)
  2. Basic Techniques: Master fundamental spear movements (3-6 months)
  3. Form Sections: Learn the form in segments (6-12 months)
  4. Complete Form: Practice the entire sequence smoothly (1-2 years)
  5. Refinement: Focus on subtleties and internal aspects (2-5 years)
  6. Martial Application: Develop practical fighting skills (3-5 years)
  7. Advanced Expression: Personalize the form while maintaining principles (5+ years)

The Wudang Ziwu Spear form represents a sophisticated martial system that integrates physical technique, internal energy cultivation, and strategic combat principles. Through diligent practice, the 72 postures become a flowing continuum, transforming the spear into a natural extension of the practitioner’s body and mind. As with all traditional Wudang martial arts, the ultimate goal transcends mere combat effectiveness to embrace philosophical dimensions of self-cultivation and harmony with natural principles.

As the old Chinese martial arts saying goes, “It takes 100 days to learn bare hands, 1,000 days to master the spear, and 10,000 days to perfect the sword” (拳经百日，枪经千日，剑经万日, Quán jīng bǎi rì, qiāng jīng qiān rì, jiàn jīng wàn rì). The journey of mastering the Wudang Ziwu Spear is both challenging and deeply rewarding, offering insights that extend far beyond the training hall.