Bajiquan 八極拳 Bājíquán

'Eight Extremes Fist'. Explosive close-range art with stomping (zhen jiao), shoulder and elbow strikes. Bodyguards of Chinese emperors and leaders trained it.

Key characteristics

• Short-range explosive power
• Stomping and 'chen chui' sinking force
• Paired with Piguazhang

Forms & curriculum

• Xiao Baji
• Baji Dajia
• Six Big Openings (Liu Da Kai)

What training looks like

Classes typically combine stances and footwork (basics), conditioning, solo forms (taolu, kata or hyung) and partner drills. Sparring is introduced gradually, usually with protective gear.

Questions to ask a school

• How is sparring introduced and supervised?
• What do a beginner's first three months look like?
• Is there a family, health or seniors class?
• How are injuries prevented?