Ba Gua Zhang—often shortened to Ba Gua, also written Baguazhang or Pa Kua—is a Taoist internal art famous for its fluid, circular stepping. It emphasizes longevity, internal energy development and meditation, and complements Tai Chi and Hsing-I practice.
What is Ba Gua Zhang?
“Ba Gua Zhang, often shortened to ba gua, or ‘eight trigram palm,’ is a unique Taoist art based on the ancient Chinese classic text, the I Ching, or Book of Changes. The fluid, circular art of ba gua places the same degree of emphasis on longevity, internal energy development, and meditation as does tai chi chuan. Consequently, knowledge of ba gua is extremely valuable to all students of tai chi chuan and to those interested in practical ways of cultivating and using personal chi.”
“Ba Gua is a challenging and invigorating art which involves walking in a circle. Originally developed in China as a form of moving meditation, it has been practiced there for thousands of years for health maintenance as well, which is our focus. In the late 1800's it also became known as a highly effective martial art.”
Benefits people often report
Experiences vary; practice is complementary and not a substitute for medical care.
- Develops fluidity and body speed; dissolves inner tension; enhances personal power
- Improves balance & coordination; clears and steadies the mind
- Builds whole-body strength; can be used as a moving meditation
Find Ba Gua classes
Browse UK Ba Gua (Baguazhang / Pa Kua) classes by region.
Related internal arts
Many schools also offer Qi Gong (Qigong), Tai Chi and Hsing-I (Xing Yi). Explore them here: