Internal Martial Arts differ from External Martial Arts in a few key areas. External Martials Arts focus on explosive movements and physical strength and agility. Internal Kung Fu instead focuses on awareness of the body and mind, and the use of relaxed leverage rather than unrefined muscular tension. The three main Internal Arts of China are Tai Chi Chuan, Hsing I Chuan and Bagua Zhang.
Tai Chi Chuan is often translated as "Grand Ultimate Fist." However, this literal translation misses the essence of the name. A more appropriate translation would be "Martial Art based on the principles of Yin and Yang." Tai Chi Chuan is characterised by it's slow-motion training forms and its principle of yielding to force.
Hsing I Chuan (or Xing Yi Quan) is an Internal Martial Art, but unlike Tai Chi Chuan it is not slow or soft. Hsing I Chuan approximately translates to "Intention Boxing." It is characterised by explosive and aggressive linear movements.
Bagua Zhang (lit. "Eight Trigrams Palm") is a martial art based on the Trigrams of the I Ching. It is characterised by the practice of circle walking, which builds strength, balance and agility for close quarters combat.
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