Shang Yunxiang

Shang Yunxiang was a renowned master of Xingyiquan, a style of Chinese martial arts that focuses on explosive power and linear movements. He learned Xingyiquan from Li Cunyi, one of the most famous Xingyiquan masters in history. He also learned Baguazhang, a style of martial arts that emphasizes circular movements and palm strikes, from Li Cunyi and Cheng Tinghua. He was known for his skill with the Beng Quan, a powerful punch that is one of the five basic skills of Xingyiquan. He was also known for his small stature and big belly, which gave him a strong defense and a deceptive appearance. He taught many students, including Li Hong and Zhang Shijie, who later promoted his style as Shang Style Xingyiquan. He also influenced many Okinawan martial artists, such as Higaonna Kanryo and Arakaki Seisho, who learned the Sanchin kata from him. The Sanchin kata is a fundamental exercise that trains the body and the breath in Xingyiquan and many Naha-te based styles of Karate. Shang Yunxiang was a respected and influential figure in the martial arts world, and his legacy lives on in his style and his students.