What Is Chinese Martial Arts Called? 12 Names You Must Know 🥋 (2025)


Video: What is Chinese martial arts?, Explain Chinese martial arts, Define Chinese martial arts.








Have you ever caught yourself wondering, “Is it Kung Fu? Wushu? Or something else entirely?” The world of Chinese martial arts is a dazzling maze of names, styles, and traditions that can leave even seasoned martial artists scratching their heads. At Karate MMA™, we’ve trained across disciplines, and we’re here to unravel the mystery behind what Chinese martial arts are really called—and why it matters.

Did you know that the term Kung Fu actually means any skill achieved through hard work, not just fighting? Or that Wushu is both a traditional martial art and a modern competitive sport? Stick around as we dive into the top 12 influential styles, training secrets, legendary practitioners, and even the controversies that make Chinese martial arts endlessly fascinating. By the end, you’ll not only know the names but also how to choose the right path for your own martial arts journey.

Key Takeaways

  • Chinese martial arts go by many names: Kung Fu, Wushu, Guoshu, and more, each with distinct meanings and contexts.
  • There are over a hundred styles, but 12 key ones like Shaolin Kung Fu, Wing Chun, and Tai Chi dominate the landscape.
  • Training blends physical techniques with philosophy and morality, making it a holistic practice.
  • Wushu is both a traditional art and a modern sport, featuring spectacular forms and full-contact fighting.
  • Choosing the right style depends on your goals: self-defense, health, competition, or cultural connection.

Ready to explore authentic training gear or books to deepen your practice? Check out these top picks:

Dive in, and let’s unlock the secrets behind the names that have shaped martial arts worldwide!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts About Chinese Martial Arts 🥋

Welcome to the fascinating world of Chinese martial arts, or as many know it—Kung Fu and Wushu! If you’ve ever wondered what is Chinese martial arts called? you’re in the right dojo. At Karate MMA™, we’ve trained extensively in Karate and other martial arts, and we’re here to share the essentials to get you started.

What You Should Know Right Now

  • Chinese martial arts have many names: The most common are Kung Fu (功夫, gōngfu) and Wushu (武术, wǔshĂš).
  • Kung Fu means “skill achieved through hard work” — not just fighting!
  • Wushu literally means “martial art” and also refers to the modern competitive sport.
  • Styles are broadly classified as Internal (nèijiāquĂĄn) focusing on qi and softness, and External (wĂ ijiāquĂĄn) focusing on strength and speed.
  • There are hundreds of styles, but some famous ones include Shaolin Kung Fu, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, Bajiquan, and Baguazhang.
  • Chinese martial arts combine physical techniques, philosophy, and morality — it’s not just punches and kicks!

Want to dive deeper? Stick around—we’ll unpack the history, styles, training methods, and even the controversies that make Chinese martial arts so captivating. Plus, we’ll share some insider tips from our Karate MMA™ team.

For a broader look at martial arts history, check out our Martial Arts History category.

Unveiling the Origins: The Rich History of Chinese Martial Arts 🐉

woman carrying barbells

Chinese martial arts are steeped in thousands of years of history, blending legend, philosophy, and practical combat.

The Ancient Roots

  • The earliest references date back to the Spring and Autumn Annals (5th century BCE), describing military fighting techniques called bÄŤng jĂŹqiǎo (兵技巧).
  • Legend credits the Yellow Emperor (Huangdi), who supposedly introduced martial arts during the Xia dynasty (~2000 BCE).
  • Over centuries, martial arts evolved from battlefield techniques to monastic training, especially at the Shaolin Temple in Henan Province, where monks developed the famous Shaolin Kung Fu.

Evolution Through Dynasties

  • During the Song dynasty (960–1279 CE), the term wǔyĂŹ (武藝) or “martial arts” became common.
  • The Ming and Qing dynasties saw the rise of many distinct styles, often linked to regions, families, or religious sects.
  • In the 20th century, the Kuomintang promoted guĂłshĂš (國術), meaning “national art,” to foster pride and unify martial arts under a national identity.

Martial Arts as Cultural Heritage

Chinese martial arts are more than fighting—they’re a living cultural treasure embodying Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian values. They influenced everything from medicine to dance, and even military strategy.

For a detailed timeline and stories, explore our Martial Arts History articles.

What Is Chinese Martial Arts Called? Exploring the Terminology and Names 🈶


Video: Exploring The Word From Martial Man – In Depth Exploration Of Chinese Martial Arts Words.








This question is the heart of our article! The answer is not as simple as “Kung Fu” — let’s break down the terminology.

The Most Common Terms

Term Chinese Characters Pinyin Meaning & Usage
Kung Fu 功夫 gōngfu Skill achieved through practice; popularized in the West as “Chinese martial arts.”
Wushu 武术 wǔshù Martial art; also the name of the modern sport version.
Guoshu 國術 guóshù “National art,” used in early 20th century China for patriotic martial arts.
Quanfa 拳法 quánfǎ “Fist method” or boxing technique.
Bingjiqiao 兵技巧 bīng jìqiǎo “Military fighting techniques,” earliest known term.
Neijia 内家拳 nèijiāquán Internal styles focusing on qi and softness.
Waijia 外家拳 wàijiāquán External styles focusing on strength and speed.

Why the Confusion?

  • Kung Fu in Chinese means any skill acquired through hard work, not just fighting. So calling all Chinese martial arts “Kung Fu” is a bit like calling all Western martial arts “boxing.”
  • Wushu is the formal term and is used in China for both traditional martial arts and the modern competitive sport.
  • Different regions and schools prefer different terms, and many styles have their own unique names.

What We Use at Karate MMA™

We respect the traditional terms but often say Chinese martial arts or Wushu/Kung Fu depending on context. When training or discussing styles, we use the specific style names for clarity.

For more on terminology and style names, see our Martial Arts History articles.

Top 12 Most Influential Chinese Martial Arts Styles You Should Know 🥢


Video: Shaolin's 12 Deadliest Animal Styles Which Beast Are YOU?








Chinese martial arts are a vast forest of styles, each with unique techniques, philosophies, and histories. Here are the top 12 styles every martial artist should know:

Style Name Chinese Characters Style Type Key Features Famous Practitioners
Shaolin Kung Fu 少林功夫 External Powerful strikes, weapons, acrobatics Bodhidharma (legend), Jet Li
Wing Chun 咏春 External Close-range combat, economy of motion Ip Man, Bruce Lee
Tai Chi 太极拳 Internal Slow, meditative, qi cultivation Chen Wangting, Yang Luchan
Bajiquan 八极拳 External Explosive close-range power Liu Yunqiao
Baguazhang 八卦掌 Internal Circular footwork, evasive movement Dong Haichuan
Hung Gar 洪厜 External Strong stances, tiger and crane techniques Wong Fei-hung
Choy Li Fut 蔡李佛 External Long-range strikes, fluid combinations Lau Gar masters
Xingyiquan 形意拳 Internal Linear power, five-element theory Li Luoneng
Praying Mantis 螳螂拳 External Fast hand techniques, trapping Wong Long
Shaolin Nam Pai 南派少林 External Southern Shaolin style, strong arm strikes Various southern masters
Wudangquan 武当拳 Internal Taoist philosophy, soft power Zhang Sanfeng (legend)
Shuai Jiao 摔跤 Wrestling Throws and grappling Various Chinese wrestlers

Why These Styles?

Each represents a cornerstone of Chinese martial arts culture—from the explosive power of Bajiquan to the graceful internal flow of Tai Chi. They also highlight the internal vs external and northern vs southern regional divides.

Our Take at Karate MMA™

We’ve trained in Wing Chun and Tai Chi to complement our Karate base, and we love how these arts bring balance between power and flow. Want to explore these styles? Check out local schools or online tutorials to get a feel for their unique flavor.

Training Secrets: How Chinese Martial Arts Are Practiced and Taught 🏯


Video: The Weird Fighting Style Used By Special Forces.








Training in Chinese martial arts is a journey, not a sprint. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

The Core Training Components

  1. Basics (Jiben功夫):
    • Stances, punches, kicks, blocks.
    • Foundation for everything else.
  2. Forms (Taolu套路):
    • Pre-arranged sequences of movements.
    • Develop coordination, balance, and muscle memory.
  3. Applications (Yingyong应用):
    • Practical self-defense techniques extracted from forms.
    • Partner drills, sparring, and scenario training.
  4. Weapons Training:
    • Staff, sword, spear, and more.
    • Builds dexterity and understanding of combat range.
  5. Qi Cultivation and Breathing:
    • Especially in internal styles like Tai Chi and Baguazhang.
    • Enhances health, focus, and power generation.

Teaching Methods

  • Traditionally, training was master-apprentice style, often secretive and personalized.
  • Modern schools use structured classes with belts or ranks, similar to Karate or Judo.
  • Many schools now blend traditional methods with sport training, especially for Wushu competition.

Training Tips from Karate MMA™

  • Consistency beats intensity: Train a little every day rather than cramming once a week.
  • Master the basics: Don’t rush forms; they’re your blueprint for combat.
  • Cross-train: Combining internal and external styles can improve your overall martial skill.
  • Find a good teacher: Authentic lineage and clear instruction are key.

For detailed techniques and training drills, visit our Karate Techniques section.

Wushu Wonders: The Modern Sport and Art of Chinese Martial Arts ⚔️


Video: Modern WUSHU, The CHINESE MARTIAL ART That Blends Tradition And Discipline .








Wushu has a double life—as a traditional martial art and as a modern competitive sport.

What Is Wushu?

  • Literally means “martial art” (武术).
  • In the 1950s, the Chinese government standardized many traditional styles into a performance sport called Wushu, emphasizing aesthetics and athleticism.
  • Wushu competitions include taolu (forms) and sanda (full-contact fighting).

Taolu (Forms)

  • Choreographed routines showcasing jumps, spins, kicks, and weapon techniques.
  • Judged on difficulty, fluidity, and expression.
  • Styles like Changquan (Long Fist), Nanquan (Southern Fist), and Taijiquan have standardized Wushu forms.

Sanda (Sanshou)

  • Chinese kickboxing with punches, kicks, throws, and sweeps.
  • Full-contact, sport fighting with protective gear.
  • Comparable to MMA but with a distinct Chinese flavor.

Our Experience at Karate MMA™

We’ve seen Wushu athletes with incredible agility and precision. While Wushu forms are spectacular, they sometimes lack practical combat application—so we recommend cross-training with realistic fighting arts like Sanda or Karate kumite.

Want to see Wushu in action? The International Wushu Federation (IWUF) hosts world championships regularly. Check their site for videos and events: IWUF Official.

Philosophy and Ethics: The Martial Morality Behind Chinese Fighting Arts 🧘‍♂️


Video: Martial Morality.








Chinese martial arts are deeply intertwined with philosophy and ethics, shaping not only how you fight but how you live.

Core Philosophical Influences

  • Taoism: Emphasizes harmony, balance (yin-yang), and flowing with nature. Tai Chi and Baguazhang are steeped in Taoist principles.
  • Confucianism: Focuses on respect, discipline, and social harmony—key in martial arts etiquette and hierarchy.
  • Buddhism: Especially Chan (Zen) Buddhism, influencing Shaolin monks’ mental discipline and compassion.

Martial Morality (歌垡, Wude)

  • Includes virtues like respect, humility, courage, and integrity.
  • Martial artists are expected to use their skills responsibly and avoid unnecessary violence.
  • Training is as much about self-cultivation as fighting prowess.

Anecdote from Karate MMA™

One of our senior instructors shared how learning Tai Chi helped him manage stress and improve patience, proving martial arts are about more than just physical strength.

For more on martial arts philosophy, see our Martial Arts History and Karate Techniques articles.

Controversies and Myths: Debunking Common Misconceptions About Chinese Martial Arts 🕵️‍♀️


Video: 5 Martial Arts Myths Debunked.








Chinese martial arts have their share of myths and controversies. Let’s clear the air.

Myth #1: “Kung Fu is just flashy moves with no real fighting value.” ❌

  • Reality: Many styles, especially traditional ones like Wing Chun and Bajiquan, are highly effective in self-defense and combat.
  • Some flashy Wushu forms are performance-oriented but don’t represent combat reality.

Myth #2: “All Chinese martial arts are the same.” ❌

  • Reality: There are hundreds of distinct styles, each with different techniques, philosophies, and training methods.

Myth #3: “Chinese martial arts are outdated compared to MMA.” ❌

  • Reality: While MMA is effective for sport fighting, many Chinese arts offer unique skills in weaponry, joint locks, and internal energy that MMA doesn’t cover.
  • Cross-training can be a huge advantage.

Controversy: Authenticity and Lineage

  • Some schools claim unverified lineages or exaggerate their history for marketing.
  • We recommend researching teachers and schools carefully, looking for transparent lineage and reputable instructors.

Our Advice at Karate MMA™

Don’t judge a style by its showmanship or hype. Try it yourself, watch real sparring, and listen to experienced practitioners.

For fight breakdowns and analysis, check our Fight Analysis and Breakdowns section.

Legends and Legends: Notable Chinese Martial Artists Who Changed the Game 🥇


Video: Bruce Lee A Martial Arts Visionary Who Changed the Game.







Chinese martial arts have produced some of the most iconic fighters and teachers in history.

Name Contribution Legacy Highlights
Bruce Lee Revolutionized martial arts worldwide; founder of Jeet Kune Do Global pop culture icon, bridged East and West
Ip Man Legendary Wing Chun master Teacher of Bruce Lee, popularized Wing Chun worldwide
Wong Fei-hung Folk hero and master of Hung Gar Subject of many films, symbol of traditional Chinese martial arts
Dong Haichuan Founder of Baguazhang Developed internal style emphasizing circular movement
Chen Wangting Founder of Chen-style Tai Chi Developed Tai Chi as a martial art and health practice

Stories from Our Dojo

Our Karate MMA™ team admires Bruce Lee’s philosophy of “using no way as way, having no limitation as limitation.” His fusion approach inspires us to blend Karate with Chinese arts for a well-rounded skill set.

Want to know more about these legends? Visit our Fighter Profiles for in-depth biographies.

Chinese Martial Arts in Movies and Media: From Bruce Lee to Modern Blockbusters 🎬


Video: Bruce Lee fights segregation with Kung Fu.








Hollywood and Chinese cinema have made martial arts a global phenomenon.

The Bruce Lee Effect

  • Bruce Lee’s films like Enter the Dragon and The Way of the Dragon introduced Kung Fu to the West with explosive charisma.
  • His philosophy and fighting style inspired countless martial artists worldwide.

Jackie Chan and Jet Li

  • Jackie Chan combined martial arts with comedy and stunts, creating a unique genre.
  • Jet Li brought traditional Wushu to international audiences with films like Hero and Fearless.

Modern Media

  • Movies like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Ip Man showcase the beauty and depth of Chinese martial arts.
  • Video games and anime also feature styles like Tai Chi and Wing Chun, fueling interest among younger generations.

Our Take at Karate MMA™

We love how movies inspire people to train, but remember: real martial arts training is about discipline and practice, not just flashy moves on screen. For practical skills, focus on authentic training.

For more on martial arts in pop culture, see our Karate and MMA News.

How Chinese Martial Arts Influence Global Martial Arts Culture 🌏


Video: The Rich History of Chinese Martial Arts: Techniques, Philosophy, and Legacy | History & Documentary.








Chinese martial arts have left an indelible mark on martial arts worldwide.

Cross-Pollination of Styles

  • Many modern martial arts, including Jeet Kune Do, MMA, and even Karate, have been influenced by Chinese techniques and philosophy.
  • Internal arts like Tai Chi have inspired mind-body practices globally.

Martial Arts Schools Worldwide

  • Chinese martial arts schools can be found on every continent, teaching everything from traditional Shaolin Kung Fu to modern Wushu.
  • International competitions and festivals celebrate Chinese martial arts culture.

Health and Wellness

  • Tai Chi and Qigong are widely practiced for health benefits, endorsed by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • These arts promote balance, flexibility, and mental calm.

Our Experience

At Karate MMA™, we encourage students to explore Chinese martial arts to broaden their understanding and improve their overall martial ability.

Choosing Your Path: How to Pick the Right Chinese Martial Art Style for You 🥋


Video: How to Pick a Martial Art | For Beginners.







With so many styles, how do you choose? Here’s our guide:

Step 1: Define Your Goals

  • Self-defense? Wing Chun, Bajiquan, or Sanda are practical choices.
  • Health and meditation? Tai Chi or Baguazhang shine here.
  • Performance and competition? Wushu is your playground.
  • Traditional lineage and culture? Shaolin Kung Fu or Hung Gar offer deep roots.

Step 2: Research Local Schools

  • Visit schools, watch classes, and ask about instructors’ backgrounds.
  • Look for schools with clear lineage and positive student reviews.

Step 3: Try Introductory Classes

  • Most schools offer trial classes or beginner workshops.
  • Pay attention to teaching style, class atmosphere, and your own enjoyment.

Step 4: Commit and Cross-Train

  • Once you pick a style, commit to consistent training.
  • Consider cross-training with Karate or MMA to round out your skills.

Our Recommendations at Karate MMA™

  • Start with a style that matches your personality and goals.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment—martial arts is a lifelong journey!

If you want to explore more about martial arts styles and training, visit our Martial Arts History and Karate Techniques categories.

Ready to dive deeper? The next section will wrap up why Chinese martial arts continue to captivate millions worldwide!

Conclusion: Why Chinese Martial Arts Still Captivate the World Today 🌟

man in white and black jacket and pants sitting on black floor

After journeying through the rich history, diverse styles, and deep philosophies of Chinese martial arts, it’s clear why these arts have enchanted practitioners and spectators for millennia. From the explosive power of Shaolin Kung Fu to the graceful flow of Tai Chi, Chinese martial arts offer something for everyone—whether you seek self-defense skills, physical fitness, spiritual growth, or cultural connection.

At Karate MMA™, we’ve seen firsthand how blending Chinese martial arts with other disciplines like Karate creates a well-rounded martial artist. The internal and external balance, the emphasis on morality, and the beautiful traditions make Chinese martial arts a living art form that continues to evolve.

If you’re wondering which path to take, remember: the best style is the one that resonates with your goals and spirit. Whether you’re drawn to the meditative calm of Tai Chi or the lightning-fast strikes of Wing Chun, there’s a place for you in this vast martial arts family.

So, what is Chinese martial arts called? It’s Kung Fu, Wushu, Guoshu, Quanfa—and so much more. It’s a treasure trove of skills, stories, and spirit waiting for you to explore.

Ready to take the first step? Dive into training, find a good teacher, and embrace the journey. Your martial arts adventure awaits! 🥋🐉

Looking to expand your knowledge or start training? Here are some top books and resources that we at Karate MMA™ recommend:

  • Bruce Lee’s Fighting Method – A classic breakdown of Bruce Lee’s techniques and philosophy.
    👉 Shop on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

  • Anatomy of Martial Arts by Norman Link and Lily Chou – Understand the biomechanics behind martial arts moves.
    👉 Shop on: Amazon | Book Depository

  • Tao of Wing Chun Kung Fu by John Little – A detailed guide with illustrations on Wing Chun principles.
    👉 Shop on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

  • The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan by Wong Kiew Kit – Comprehensive coverage of Tai Chi’s history, philosophy, and practice.
    👉 Shop on: Amazon | Book Depository

  • International Wushu Federation (IWUF) – Official site for modern Wushu competitions and resources.
    IWUF Official Website

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Chinese Martial Arts Answered ❓

woman in black shirt holding black rope

What are the different styles of Chinese martial arts?

Chinese martial arts encompass hundreds of styles, broadly categorized into:

  • External (WĂ ijiāquĂĄn): Focus on speed, strength, and explosive power. Examples: Shaolin Kung Fu, Bajiquan, Hung Gar.
  • Internal (NèijiāquĂĄn): Emphasize qi cultivation, softness, and fluidity. Examples: Tai Chi, Baguazhang, Xingyiquan.
  • Northern vs. Southern styles: Northern styles often feature high kicks and acrobatics (e.g., Northern Shaolin), while Southern styles emphasize strong hand techniques and stable stances (e.g., Wing Chun).
  • Specialized styles: Such as Shuai Jiao (wrestling), Sanda (Chinese kickboxing), and weapon-based arts.

Each style has unique techniques, training methods, and philosophies.

Read more about “Karate in Mixed Martial Arts: 7 Secrets That Make It Unstoppable 🥋 (2025)”

How did Chinese martial arts influence other forms of martial arts like Karate?

Chinese martial arts significantly influenced Japanese martial arts, including Karate. Historical trade and cultural exchanges, especially between Okinawa and Southern China, led to the integration of Chinese fighting techniques into Okinawan Karate. For example:

  • Kempo and White Crane styles influenced Karate’s striking and blocking techniques.
  • The concept of kata (forms) in Karate parallels Chinese taolu.
  • Philosophical elements like mindfulness and discipline also crossed over.

This cross-pollination enriched martial arts globally and continues to inspire hybrid systems.

What is the history and origin of Chinese martial arts?

Chinese martial arts originated as military combat techniques dating back over 2,000 years, with legendary roots in the Xia dynasty and the Yellow Emperor. Over centuries, they evolved through:

  • Monastic training at Shaolin Temple (circa 5th century CE), blending Buddhism and combat.
  • Development of regional styles during Ming and Qing dynasties.
  • Modern standardization and promotion under the Kuomintang in the 20th century as Guoshu (national art).

They combine combat skills with philosophy, health practices, and cultural identity.

Read more about “How to Adapt Karate for MMA: 7 Game-Changing Tips (2025) 🥋🥊”

What are the main principles and philosophies behind Chinese martial arts?

Chinese martial arts are grounded in:

  • Taoism: Balance, flow, yin-yang harmony.
  • Confucianism: Respect, discipline, social order.
  • Buddhism: Mindfulness, compassion, mental discipline.

Practitioners cultivate martial morality (Wude)—virtues like humility, courage, and integrity. Training integrates body, mind, and spirit, emphasizing self-improvement beyond fighting.

Read more about “Unleashing the Power of Karate: 10 Essential Insights You Need to Know! 🥋”

How does Chinese martial arts differ from Japanese martial arts like Karate?

While both share common goals of self-defense and discipline, key differences include:

Aspect Chinese Martial Arts Japanese Martial Arts (Karate)
Philosophy Blend of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism Strong Confucian and Bushido influence
Techniques Wide variety: strikes, grappling, weapons, internal energy Primarily striking with punches and kicks
Training Forms (taolu), internal energy (qi), weapons Kata, kihon, kumite (sparring)
Styles Hundreds of diverse styles, internal/external Fewer core styles, more standardized
Competition Wushu sport includes forms and sanda (kickboxing) Sport Karate with point sparring

Both arts offer rich traditions but differ in emphasis and approach.

What are some of the most famous Chinese martial arts practices, such as Tai Chi and Kung Fu?

  • Tai Chi (Taijiquan): Internal, slow, meditative, focusing on qi and balance.
  • Shaolin Kung Fu: External, fast, powerful, with extensive weapon training.
  • Wing Chun: Close-range, efficient striking, popularized by Ip Man and Bruce Lee.
  • Bajiquan: Explosive short-range power, favored by bodyguards and military.
  • Baguazhang: Circular footwork and evasive movement, Taoist roots.

Each has unique characteristics and global followings.

Can Chinese martial arts be used for self-defense, and if so, what techniques are most effective?

✅ Absolutely! Many Chinese martial arts are highly effective for self-defense when properly trained.

  • Wing Chun is renowned for practical close-quarters combat techniques.
  • Bajiquan offers explosive strikes ideal for quick incapacitation.
  • Sanda provides full-contact striking and throws, similar to MMA.
  • Chin Na focuses on joint locks and control techniques.

However, effectiveness depends on realistic training, sparring, and application rather than just forms. Cross-training with modern combat sports can enhance practical self-defense skills.

For more on martial arts history and techniques, visit our Martial Arts History and Karate Techniques categories at Karate MMA™.

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