Step Forward to Seven Stars 上步七星
Shàng bù qī xīng
How to do it
From the low posture, rise and step forward into an empty stance, both fists crossed at the wrists in front of the chest – the joints aligned like the seven stars of the Big Dipper.
Step by step
- From the low posture, rise and step forward
- Land in an empty stance
- Cross loose fists at the wrists in front of the chest
- Keep the elbows down
Breathing
Exhale as you cross the fists.
Health focus
Balance and posture.
Common mistakes
- Fists too high
- Stiff wrists
Martial meaning
Crossed fists block and strike upward.
How it varies between styles
| Yang | Crossed fists, empty stance. |
|---|---|
| Chen | 'Step Forward to Ride the Whale / Seven Stars'. |
| Wu | Also has 'Step Back Seven Stars'. |
| Sun | 'Forward step, seven stars'. |
| Seated | Cross loose fists at the wrists in front of the chest. |
Where it appears
- Yang Family Traditional 103 Form – step 95: Step Forward Seven Stars
- Chen Practical Method Yilu – 81 Movements – step 77: Step Forward to Ride the Whale
- Chen Laojia Yilu (Old Frame First Road) – 74 Movements – step 69: Step Forward to Seven Stars
- Cheng Man-ch'ing 37-Posture Short Form – step 34: Step Up to Seven Stars
- Wu Jianquan 108 Long Form – step 44: Step Back Seven Stars
- Wu Jianquan 108 Long Form – step 97: Step Up Seven Stars
- Sun Style 73 Competition Form – step 67: Step Up to Seven Stars
Animated 2D guide (front view). The highlighted leg carries the weight, the faint trails show the path of the hands, and the cue at the top suggests the breath.
Video demonstrations 影片
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Move slowly, keep the knees soft and over the toes, and stay within a comfortable range. Every movement can be adapted for a chair.