Changquan
Long Shadow Boxing
Many styles have that name as it can refers to a long form (more than 50 techniques), a long range form (strategy based on long range fighting) or a long history (like that style supposedly created by Emperor Taizu 927-976). Also there is a modern creation of the Nanjing National Arts institute with that name, it is mainly a compilation of many northern styles or forms (Tantui, Lianbu, Bengbu, Gongli, ...) and is sometimes even called BeiShaolin quan or Shaolin quan!
And there is a compilation of Moslem styles (Cha quan, Hua quan, Pao quan and Hong Quan) made in 1956 and which became very popular, from this Chang quan a "modern wushu demonstration style" has been created, with very low stances, very long techniques and pretty acrobatic motions. Very beautiful but quite unrealistic in applications.
Changquan
is an external style that combines the elements of chaquan, huaquan and hongquan.
Changquan is characterized by flexible, quick, powerful, fully extended
movements. Footwork and leg techniques are emphasized, as well as jumping,
leaping and acrobatic movements.
The techniques are
executed within a wide range, requiring quick speed and tremendous physical
exertion. Constant practice of changquan results in improved functions of the
cardiovascular system, respiratory system and central nervous system. It also
improves the pliability and elasticity of the muscles and ligaments and
flexibility of the joints.
Changquan is complicated in it's composition and application. Our club focuses
on both the traditional and modern aspects of changquan.
What is involved in a typical class?
Our changquan classes are structured so that each individual can build a solid
foundation in elementary changquan. Each class is begun with light running,
followed by formal stretching and basic warm up exercises. Following warm-ups,
we run through stationary and moving stance exercises which are followed by
kicking drills and jumping movements. Following these drills, we practice
running through particular sections of forms. We finish the class off with
either conditioning exercises or application drills.
What kind of shape do I need to be in?
Changquan is very different than other martial arts. It is safe to say someone
who has not been exercising regularly prior to training changquan will be
feeling pain for a least the first two weeks of practice. But this is not meant
to scare you off from training changquan. Learning changquan is a gradual
process, but it's benefits are numerous, one of the most important being that it
is fun! Changquan is very aerobic and its movements more resemble gymnastics
than tae kwon do or other linear martial arts.