Changquan
From Karate, Kungfu, Wrestling, Mixed Fighting Information Source
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Changquan is the general term used to refer to some martial arts styles found in the Northern provinces of China; the literal translation is "long fist." The forms within the Long Fist style emphasize fully extended kicks and hand-striking techniques, and by its appearance would be considered a long-range fighting system.
Techniques
Most Changquan styles teach their students that "the best defense is a good offense"; thus, a Changquan style usually involves an aggressive pre-emptive attack so that the opponent never gets a chance to launch their own attack.
These styles are characterized by acrobatic leaps and devastating kicks; thus, practitioners need almost perfect balance, extreme flexibility and good coordination between hands and feet. Advanced students also learn Chin Na and Shuai Jiao techniques, making it a more complete style.
History
Changquan was created by Zhao Kuangyin, also known as Emperor Taizu, first emperor of the Song Dynasty (960-1279). Styles which fall under the Changquan rubric include Cha Chuan, Fanziquan, and Hua Quan.
