Black Crane
From Karate, Kungfu, Wrestling, Mixed Fighting Information Source
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Black Crane is a martial arts style from China that focuses on self-defence. Unlike the art of White Crane Fist, Black Crane does not inflict serious physical injury upon a foe. Rather, it aims to frustrate an attacker by executing fast-flowing evasion and blocking techniques until the enemy feels he is defeated. The hand movements of this style are generally easy to learn. It is one of the oldest styles of Kung Fu.
History
Black Crane was founded by Hua To, a physician in the time of the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE) after he saw a crane successfully fight off an attack from either a monkey or a gibbon. Modern Black Crane evolved through the incorporation of Chin Na, Xingyiquan and Baguazhang techniques. Schools that teach this art generally focus on real-world fighting situations rather than sport competition, and also the more spiritual aspects of Kung Fu.
Techniques
Black Crane includes many wrist locking techniques that redirect the opponent's force back towards the opponent. Its most notable aspect is use of the "Crane’s Beak." This is a hand form most often used for blocking an attack but can also be used for striking vital points of the body (Dim Mak). Furthermore, most of Black Crane's stances use only one leg, exhibiting excellent balance and swift movements.
