Prior to the past few decades, wushu was considered a general term that referred to all of China's martial arts. However, in recent years, wushu has become known as performance martial art. Wushu practitioners often showcase dynamic fighting techniques at tournaments and demonstrations. Learning about wushu's basic stances and blocks can give you a better understanding of this impressive martial art.
Stretching
Wushu techniques require you to be flexible. In order to avoid muscle strains or pulls, it is a good idea to stretch extensively before practicing wushu techniques. A stretching exercise used in wushu is the front stretch. You can perform this stretch by placing your heel on a table or counter top. Try to stretch your chin toward your foot. You can also turn your body sideways and try to stretch the side of your head toward your shin. Remember not to overdo it when you stretch. Wushu practitioners spend years getting better at these stretches. Stretching can particularly benefit you before you perform wushu kicks or stances.
Stances
Wushu's stances tend to be lower than the stances of many other martial arts. These low stances can be challenging for beginners. A couple of the basic stances of wushu are the bow and drop stances. The bow stance is performed by stepping forward with one leg and bending your front knee. Keep your back leg straight and your front knee parallel to the floor as you sink down into the bow stance. Your upper body should be angled slightly forward in this stance. The drop stance is performed in an opposite manner. Keep your front leg straight and your back knee bent in the drop stance. Try to sit as low as you can in this stance.
Blocks
Martial arts such as karate and taekwondo are considered "hard" styles. These styles use blocks that meet an opponent's attack with force. Wushu, considered a "soft" style, uses blocking techniques that typically flow into counterattacks. For example, wushu practitioners often use the palm of the hand to block and slightly redirect an opponent's attack. Redirecting an opponent's attack can make him vulnerable to a kick or strike. Wushu blocks are also often circular in nature. If an attacker delivers a kick, you can swing your arm downward in a circle to redirect his kick away from you.
Weapons
Wushu students practice extensively with weapons. These weapons include the spear, broadsword and wooden staff. You can use the same circular blocking concepts while holding a weapon. For example, you can swing a broadsword around your body to protect yourself from oncoming attacks. In addition, wushu's low stances can be used to avoid a weapon attack that targets your head.
Practice
To improve your basic wushu blocks and stances, you need to practice them. Experienced wushu stylists sharpen their skills by frequently practicing forms. These forms are choreographed routines that are meant to simulate combat. You can learn wushu forms from a qualified wushu instructor. You can also learn wushu forms from instructional DVDs (see "Resources").
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