History of Wushu
Background to a Popular Chinese Martial Art
While the techniques that define Wushu as a martial art are hundreds of years old, in some cases thousands, the name and compiled body of techniques of Wushu are both less than a hundred years old. This article is split up into two categories to encompass the division between technique origin and the birth of Wushu.
Ancient History
Although Kung Fu has a very diverse and ancient history, one of the first examples of martial arts being practiced widespread for the sake of health emerged sometime between 750 – 250 BC. Traditional martial arts, particularly forms and other forms of mimicked movements that had been passed down were compiled to encompass exercises for every part of the body. This “style” was called Daoyin.
When Hua Tuo created his Five Animal movements at the turn of the third century, many practitioners of Daoyin incorporated his movements as well as theories. They expanded Daoyin to encompass more than five animals, creating unique patterns of movements for more than fifteen animals.
From 1000 – 1500 AD, several forms of exercises cropped up all over China, being practiced by members of the upper echelon. These new exercises including shadow boxing, stretches, and most carried an emphasis on breathing techniques. Until Wushu incorporated these techniques centuries later, these exercises continued to be improved upon, evolving to meet the needs of society at each time period.
Modern History
The 1920s saw the development of a new martial art. The Republic Government was attempting to create a style that represented their image as a unified state. They needed something twofold: a style that would have the history of China, but encompass enough that older styles, which expressed individuality, would disappear. By 1928, the Republic Government presented their creation: the Central Wushu Institute. With instructors ready to create a competitive style as well as traditional artists, Wushu was born.
By the 1950s, Wushu had become one of China’s premier martial arts. The world had gotten a little taste of Wushu in the 1936 Olympics, when a demonstration had been done by a team of artists. In 1949, the Republic of China redeveloped many of the techniques, and worked to change the mindset of Wushu. Instead of focusing on fighting application, physical health and education of the body became the primary focus of the style.
A mix of propaganda and science helped show the benefits that Wushu had on the body and the general health of its participants after some practice. Its popularity increased until the Chinese Wushu Association was developed, instating common rules for Wushu practitioners across China. As an added benefit, Wushu boasted national pride seeped in ancient history.
Wushu spent the next few decades following in the steps of Tae Kwon Do, Kendo, and other forms of martial arts by spreading west. In 1990, the International Wushu Federation was established.
Today Wushu competitors spend their lives training, hoping to glean national honor by representing China in competition. It stands as one of the most difficult sports to become accomplished in, as well as one of the most popular martial arts across the globe. World Wushu Tournaments as well as international festivals are held each year, with tens of thousands of people attending as competitors, spectators, or helping hands.
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