Introduction to Baguazhang

This clear, step-by-step guide to the fundamentals of the Chinese internal martial art of Bagua Zhang lays out the principles, practices, and underlying philosophy of this most cerebral and ingenious of martial systems. Leading readers from the most basic precepts of Bagua Zhang practice through to the most advanced techniques, Kent Howard draws on his deep understanding of the art and his decades of teaching to set students on a path toward mastery. Numerous easy-to-follow photographs illustrate the exercises and principles involved in chapters that explain the core practice of circle-walking, body actions, posture and alignment, post standing, fluid motion, generating power, absorbing and redirecting energy, whole-body power, striking while in motion, and much more. In addition to providing a solid foundation for a lifetime practice, the book also offers more advanced practitioners valuable tips on how to increase their knowledge and understanding of this multifaceted martial art.

EXPERT, ACTIVE AUTHOR: Kent Howard has been practicing Chinese martial arts for over forty years, including teaching Bagua Zhang since 1972. His knowledge of the subject–its history, philosophy, and practical applications–is comprehensive and profound. Howard has 3,100+ Facebook followers and 1,400+ YouTube subscribers. WELL ILLUSTRATED, EASY-TO-FOLLOW FORMAT: Structure of the book is methodical and clear, with detailed step-by-step instructions beginning with fundamentals and building from the ground up. Numerous photos supplement the text so that basic concepts will be easily understood and assimilated.

FOR BEGINNERS AS WELL AS SEASONED PRACTIONERS: The fundamentals of Bagua Zhang are the heart of the art itself, and there is much depth and complexity in even the simplest basic technique, so this book appeals to practitioners all along the learning spectrum. In addition to presenting the fundamentals, Howard includes a chapter devoted to the five levels of advanced practice.