The system of Baguazhang is based on the ancient Chinese Taoist I Ching or Book of Changes.

The book of changes teaches that everything has a cycle and is in constant change.

To harmonize with these constant changes you have to become flexible and learn to adapt.

The same holds true to the art of Baguazhang. The Bagua routine is great for exercising your whole body.

The constant twisting and turning thoroughly exercises your waist, lower back, shoulders and hips.

But more than that all of your internal organs receive a thorough massaging, so you are exercised both inside and out.

The hips and legs are strengthened and stretched making this a very balanced routine.

As with all of the inner arts you practise to your own ability.

If you haven’t exercised for a while you begin in a high stance and take it slowly, gradually building up over time.

However if you are fitter and want to have a vigorous workout or lose weight you and stand and squat lower while moving at a faster pace.

This really is an exercise routine for all ages and fitness levels.

There are eight major sections which are combined into one long flowing exercise called Walking the Circle or the Circling Dragon.

Each form is associated with a particular method of using the open palm as a weapon or a way of stimulating the flow of energy called Chi.

In most forms of Bagua there are only open hand strikes.