The base to Hsing-I (Xingyi) is the Five Fists (5 Elements). These fists teach the practitioner different expressions of power. The Five Fists (5 Elements) are: Pi Chuan/Splitting Fist or Metal, Tsuan Chuan/Drilling Fist or Water, Bong Chuan/Crushing Fist or Wood, Po chuan/Exploding Fist or Fire, and Heng chuan/Crossing Fist or Earth. 

 

Hsing-I (Xingyi) was created to imitate the fighing techniques and spirit of twelve different animals. Martial artists in ancient times modified them with human rational analysis and this is how many different martial arts styles were created.

 

Yi Tao Boxing School has a very extensive Hsing-I (Xingyi) program from a hybrid style to a direct lineage to the famous internal martial arts master Sun Lu Tang. Hsing-I (Xingyi) is an internal martial art which utilizes fighting techniques demonstrated by animals and also requires an internal cultivation by which the Xin (emotional mind) and Yi (wisdom mind) can be combined. 

 

In Hsing-I (Xingyi) great emphasis is placed on holding the correct musculoskeletal structure and using the mind or intent to incorporate the body's Qi/Chi into the practitioner's combat movements. Due to its predominantly linear pattern of movement, Hsing-I (Xingyi) appears simple and direct. But it is not easy to master. Practitioners must seek to coordinate the motion of their entire body, along with their mind, into one focused action. There is nothing flashy about the style and there are few kicks. Most important is the ability to generate power with the whole body and to focus it into an explosive discharge.

 

Often referred to as a "soft" style or internal martial art, it does not appear as such at first glance. Lacking the soft flowing movements of Tai Chi (Taiji), and without the captivating twisting and circular motions of BaGua (PaKua) its internal character is not readily evident. The health benefits of Hsing-I (Xingyi) and the practice of the Five Fists (5 Elements) are said to exceed even those of Tai Chi (Taiji). 

 

  Hsing-I (Xingyi) instructional classes in Orange County, California