Wushu originated from China with a long history and unique health-building value. Today, it has become a popular sport all around the globe.

Initially, the arts were designed by Chinese ancestors for defense and attack in their struggle for survival. With distinct regional characteristics, Wushu gradually progressed into an oriental military art in the era of cold weapons. Even civilians practiced Wushu to defend themselves, strengthen their bodies and cultivate their mind. When firearms replaced Wushu as the main military equipment, the latter steadily retired from the military realm and became transformed into a sport. As a traditional Chinese sport Wushu pays attention to both internal and external exercises with fighting movements and routine exercises.

Between 3rd and 6th Centuries A.D. , Wushu came under the influence of Buddhism and Taoism that elevated it from the position of a warrior art into a deeply meditative art form. During the period of Republic China (1912-1949) in 1928 Central Wushu Institute was established in Nanjing and Wushu became a component of socialist culture. In other words, physical education and sports developed spectacularly. Furthermore, the rest of the world recognized Wushu for the first time in Berlin Olympics (1936) when it was demonstrated by the Chinese team. Since then, it has spread like wild fire across the world.

Wushu in India

Wushu first came to India in 1989 with the efforts made by Late Sri Anand Kacker by formation of Wushu Association of India and gaining its popularity day by day with its thirty five units in all over India.

Classification of Wushu

Wushu is classified into two major Categories Sanshou and Taolu.