Derived from Chinese martial arts, Wushu(??)is considered a ‘performing sport’, as it consists of elements that are characteristic to both sports and the performing arts. Wushu practitioners are taught Wu de, the martial code of conduct with an emphasis on discipline, integrity, and humility. They are expected to display excellence in their moral character and to uphold integrity and moral courage at all times. Wushu training helps to improve flexibility, speed, strength, coordination, and endurance. Unlike other contact sports, Wushu is considered relatively safe due to its performance nature. Wushu is a broad discipline that encompasses different martial arts styles. Some of the most common ones are: - Changquan(??)‘Long Fist’, requires speed, flexibility, and agility. It is considered an ‘external form’ because of its emphasis on physicality. This is one of the most popular forms and is generally suited to younger practitioners. - Nanquan(??)’Southern Fist’, focuses greatly on stable, low stances and swift, powerful kicks. While Changquan focuses on speed and agility, the challenge of Nanquan lies in strengthening the lower body for power and strength. This form tends to be more popular amongst males because of the amount of strength required. - Taijiquan(???)also called ‘Tai Chi’, is considered an ‘internal form’ because of its emphasis on balance, coordination, and fluidity over strength or speed. Wushu-level Taiji also involves difficult jumps and kicks that call for greater flexibility and control. Taiji is especially popular amongst older practitioners and is known for being especially beginner-friendly. Other common, but slightly less popular styles include Baguazhang(???)’Eight Trigrams Palm’, Wing Chun(??)’Eternal Spring’, Zuiquan(??)’Drunken Fist’, and Xingyiquan(???)’Form-Intention Fist’. Wushu athletes typically begin their training in the barehanded form of their chosen style, but most also train in a variety of weapons, eventually specialising in one or two. The four main weapons seen at Wushu competitions are: - Jian(?)’Sword’, a double-bladed straight sword best suited for stabbing. Traditionally called the ‘Gentleman’s Weapon’, it is one of the most popular weapon forms. - Dao’(?)Sabre’/‘Broadsword’, a single-edged sword meant for slicing and hacking. Known as the ‘General of Weapons’, it was once associated with bandits and outlaws, but also with rebels and revolusionists. - Gun’(?)Staff’/‘Cudgel’, a long rod dubbed the ‘Grandfather of Weapons’. Because of its relative inability to cause severe injury, it is the favoured weapon of Shaolin monks, contributing to its image as a ‘merciful’ weapon? - Qiang’(?)Spear’, is constructed very similar to the Gun but with a steel blade affixed to the top. Known as the ‘King of Weapons’, it was once standard issue for Chinese soldiers on the battlefield. These weapons are practised across all styles of Wushu. Athletes may practise either the single- or double-weapon versions of the Jian and Dao. Other common, but slightly less popular weapons are the Shan(?)’Fan’, Dadao(??)’Great Sword’, Shengbiao(??)’Rope Dart’, and Shuangjiegun(???)’Two-sectio Whip’/‘Nunchucks’. Despite its history as a combat sport, modern Wushu competitions are more performative in nature, with minimal risk of injury. A typical Wushu competition involves the athlete performing a set Taolu in front of judges, who then grade the athlete according to a set of rubrics based on their adherence to the standard Taolu, their overall aesthetic appeal, and any mistakes or high-difficulty movements which may help them lose or gain points. Both individuals and groups may compete, with the typical group consisting of six athletes. Group events may also involve the completion of a set Taolu, often to music, or the performance of a choreographed Duida(??)’Sparring’. A typical Wushu training session consists of warm-ups, strength and conditioning, as well as Taolu practice. Although athletes who regularly compete choose to buy their own weapons and competition attire, Wushu is generally a low-cost sport as little extra equipment or specialised facilities are needed to conduct a comprehensive training programme. Through Wushu, members will gain a better understanding and appreciation towards Wushu and Chinese culture in general. Members will be exposed to different Wushu styles and routines and develop into effective athletes through quality training. Regular Wushu training will also result in resilient and disciplined individuals, while participation in competitions and performances will breed confident and courageous individuals. Throughout this, Wushu training will nurture respectful and ethical individuals by imparting moral values and foster team building and cohesion by providing opportunities for members to work together as a team. Overall, Wushu is a fun way to encourage an active and healthy lifestyle to maintain a positive state of mind and body.