Bagua Zhang

Bagua Zhang (八卦掌), or “Eight Trigram Palm,” is one of the three major internal martial arts of China, alongside Tai Chi and Xing Yi Quan. Rooted in Daoist philosophy and the ancient wisdom of the I Ching, Bagua Zhang is known for its elegant circular footwork, spiraling body movements, and evasive combat strategies. It’s not just a martial art—it’s a moving meditation, a tactical dance, and a path to internal transformation. To practice Bagua Zhang is to walk the circle of change and master the flow of energy.

Origins & Philosophy

  • Founder: Dong Haichuan (19th century), who synthesized Taoist circle walking with martial techniques
  • Philosophy: Based on the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) from the I Ching, symbolizing constant change, balance, and transformation
  • Internal Focus: Emphasizes Qi cultivation, breath control, and mind-body integration
  • Spiritual Roots: Deeply connected to Daoist principles of yin-yang, flow, and adaptability

Bagua Zhang is often seen as the most fluid and evasive of the internal arts, embodying the Daoist ideal of “soft overcoming hard.”

Key Techniques & Training

Circle Walking

  • Practitioners walk in a circle while holding static postures
  • Builds balance, coordination, and internal energy
  • Trains the body to move while maintaining rootedness

Palm Changes

  • Core techniques involve changing direction while walking the circle
  • Includes strikes, throws, locks, and evasions
  • Each palm change corresponds to a trigram and tactical principle

Internal Mechanics

  • Spiral motion through the spine and limbs
  • Fa-jin (explosive power) generated from whole-body movement
  • Breathing and intention guide every technique

Weapons Training

  • Bagua sword, deer horn knives, staff, and spear
  • Weapons follow the same circular and flowing principles as empty-hand techniques

Combat Strategy

  • Evasion over confrontation: Avoid direct attacks by circling and redirecting
  • Guerrilla-style tactics: Strike from unexpected angles while constantly moving
  • Disruption & Unbalancing: Use footwork and body placement to break the opponent’s structure
  • Surprise & Flow: Attack while in motion, maintaining fluidity and unpredictability

Bagua fighters are known for their ability to “disappear” and reappear with sudden, precise strikes.

Bagua Zhang is a martial art of transformation—physically, mentally, and spiritually. It teaches that true strength lies in adaptability, and true mastery comes from understanding change. Whether you're drawn to its graceful movements or its profound philosophy, Bagua Zhang offers a lifelong journey of discovery.