Montreal Long Fist Kung Fu & Tai Chi

The Frog pose

In Kung fu, stance training is crucial!

Feng Chi (Gall bladder 20)

A stretch we often forget...

The traditional Chinese salute

The Wushu salute (Bao Quan Li, 抱拳礼) is more than a simple greeting. It is a centuries-old gesture that embodies the philosophy, ethics, and spirit of Chinese martial arts. Whether performed before training, competition, demonstrations, or between practitioners, the salute represents mutual respect, humility, discipline, and the responsible use of martial skill.
What Is the Wushu Salute?
The traditional Wushu salute is performed by placing the left open palm over the right closed fist, holding both hands together in front of the chest. The elbows remain relaxed, shoulders level, and the practitioner maintains an upright posture while looking respectfully toward the other person.
This is the standard salute used in modern Wushu, traditional Kung Fu schools, and official competitions.
The Symbolism of the Hands
The Right Closed Fist
The closed fist symbolizes:
Martial ability
Strength and courage
Determination
Combat skills developed through disciplined training
The fist reminds practitioners that martial arts require dedication and perseverance.
The Left Open Palm
The open palm represents:
Peace
Friendship
Respect
Kindness
Self-control
Wisdom
By covering the fist with the open palm, practitioners demonstrate that virtue controls strength.
The Deeper Meaning
The Wushu salute conveys an important philosophical message:
Martial skill must always be guided by morality.
Although a practitioner possesses the ability to fight, they choose humility over aggression and peace over violence.
The salute also expresses:
Respect for teachers
Respect for fellow practitioners
Respect for opponents
Respect for the martial arts tradition
Historical Background
The Bao Quan salute has been practiced in Chinese martial arts for hundreds of years. Different styles developed slight variations, but the central idea has remained unchanged:
Strength without virtue is dangerous; virtue without strength is incomplete.
This balance reflects traditional Chinese philosophy, particularly the harmony between physical ability and moral character.
When Is the Wushu Salute Performed?
The salute is commonly used:
Before and after training
At the beginning and end of competitions
Before performing a routine
Before sparring
When greeting instructors
When thanking judges and spectators
During martial arts ceremonies
Proper Way to Perform the Salute
Stand upright with feet together or shoulder-width apart.
Make a right fist.
Cover it with the left open palm.
Hold both hands at chest level.
Keep the elbows relaxed.
Look forward respectfully.
Slightly bow the head if appropriate.
The movement should be smooth, controlled, and sincere.
Moral Lessons Behind the Salute
The Wushu salute reminds practitioners to:
Be humble in victory.
Be respectful in defeat.
Protect rather than intimidate.
Develop both body and character.
Use martial skills responsibly.
Seek peace before conflict.
These values are essential principles of true martial arts practice.

Cha style double hooked swords

Flash palm in cross stance (Xie bu Liang Zhang)

The Da Dao (big Broadsword) also named Kwan Dao, after the legendary general Kwan (Guan Yu). (Photo from 2014)

Master Hu Ze Hua (Simon Hu) at 15 years old in Shanghai.