Northern Styles

Northern Chinese martial arts are known for their elegance, agility, and explosive legwork. These styles originated in the vast plains and mountainous regions of northern China, where open terrain inspired long-range techniques, high kicks, and fluid movement. From the legendary Northern Shaolin to the aerial artistry of Eagle Claw, Northern styles combine combat efficiency with theatrical beauty. To train in Northern Kung Fu is to master the art of motion and momentum.

Core Characteristics of Northern Styles

Northern styles (北派 Běi pài) are defined by:

  • Extended stances: Horse, bow, drop, and dragon stances for stability and power
  • Dynamic kicks: High, sweeping, and jumping kicks for range and agility
  • Fluid transitions: Quick directional changes and circular blocks
  • Acrobatic flair: Leaps, spins, and aerial techniques
  • Long-range combat: Emphasis on reach, speed, and mobility

These traits contrast with Southern styles, which favor rooted stances and close-range strikes.

Iconic Northern Styles

Northern Shaolin (北少林)

  • Originated from the Songshan Shaolin Temple in Henan
  • Known for its comprehensive system of forms, weapons, and conditioning
  • Popularized by masters like Gu Ruzhang in the 20th century

Eagle Claw (Ying Zhao Pai)

  • Focuses on joint locks, pressure point strikes, and gripping techniques
  • Combines fierce handwork with acrobatic kicks

Northern Praying Mantis (Tanglang Quan)

  • Mimics the mantis’s rapid strikes and trapping movements
  • Famous for its complex hand techniques and rhythm

Long Fist (Changquan)

  • Considered the “mother style” of modern Wushu
  • Features extended postures, flowing combinations, and theatrical performance

Bajiquan & Chuojiao

  • Bajiquan: Short, explosive strikes used in bodyguard training
  • Chuojiao: Emphasizes powerful kicks and stomping footwork

These styles reflect the diversity and depth of Northern martial arts traditions.

Cultural Influence

  • Historical Legacy: Northern styles were practiced by imperial guards, monks, and soldiers
  • Modern Wushu: Many Northern techniques form the foundation of contemporary performance martial arts
  • Global Reach: Influenced Korean Taekwondo, Okinawan Karate, and modern kickboxing through their emphasis on high kicks and dynamic movement

Northern Kung Fu is not just a fighting system—it’s a cultural export that shaped martial arts worldwide.

Northern styles of Kung Fu offer a thrilling blend of artistry and combat. They teach practitioners to move with grace, strike with precision, and embody the spirit of Chinese martial tradition. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Long Fist or the ferocity of Eagle Claw, Northern Kung Fu invites you to explore the full range of human motion.