The 12 Animal Forms emulate the techniques and tactics of the corresponding animal rather than just their physical movements. Some of the animal techniques have only simple, straight forward movements where others are more complex and involve a sequence of mimicking movements. The techniques used in the 12 Animal Forms compliment those used in the 5 Element Forms and add more striking, kicking and stepping techniques. In addition to focusing the mind the practice of the 12 Animal Forms can also greatly enhance the practitioner’s physical strength and mobility.
English |
Chinese (character) |
Chinese (pinyin) |
Form |
Dragon |
龍 |
Lóng |
Spiraling and coiling upward and downward movements. |
Tiger |
虎 |
Hǔ |
Forceful and direct movements with clawing attacks. |
Horse |
馬 |
Mǎ |
Strong movements like rearing a horse or a horse kicking. |
Monkey |
猴 |
Hóu |
Light and playful movements with deception. |
Chicken |
鷄 |
Jī |
Fast and aggressive movements. |
Swallow |
燕 |
Yàn |
Swift and strong circling movements. |
Sparrow Hawk |
鷂 |
Yào |
Powerful and fast direct movements. |
Tai |
T’ai |
Strong movements from close range. |
|
Crocodile |
鼍 |
Tuó |
Smooth and flowing movements. |
Snake |
蛇 |
Shé |
Slow and fast coiling movements combined. |
Eagle & Bear |
鷹 & 熊 |
Yīng & Xióng |
Strong, direct upward and downward movements combined. |