Xingyi training is organized around a small number of powerful core practices that are refined over time.
Unlike many martial arts that emphasize long choreographed routines, Xingyi focuses on a compact set of movements practiced deeply. The system appears simple on the surface, yet its training reveals increasingly subtle layers of structure, coordinated stepping, and whole-body power.
Xingyi forms are typically short, direct, and practiced on both sides of the body. Through consistent practice, students develop unified movement, focused intention, and the ability to transition instantly from stillness into decisive action.
Three Treasures Stance (San Ti Shi)
Training begins with San Ti Shi, often translated as the Three Treasures Stance.
This posture develops structural alignment, whole-body connection, and the ability to generate force from a stable base. The stance also functions as a mobile fighting posture used throughout Xingyi practice.
Standing practice, stepping drills, and the characteristic following step teach practitioners to move the body as a unified structure while maintaining balance and forward pressure.
Over time, San Ti Shi builds strength, resilience, and the foundation for issuing power through the entire body.
The Five Element Fists
The Five Element Fists form the foundation of Xingyi striking methods.
Each element represents a specific type of force and tactical principle. Together they create a complete system of direct combat techniques while also functioning as a powerful internal training method.
The Five Elements include:
- Metal — Splitting (Pi Quan)
- Water — Drilling (Zuan Quan)
- Wood — Penetrating (Beng Quan)
- Fire — Exploding (Pao Quan)
- Earth — Crossing (Heng Quan)
Through repeated practice of these core movements, students develop coordinated stepping, whole-body power, and the ability to issue force quickly and efficiently.
The Twelve Animal Forms
The Twelve Animal Forms expand the principles of the Five Elements into a wider range of tactical expressions.
Each animal emphasizes a different method of power, strategy, and body mechanics, allowing practitioners to apply Xingyi principles in diverse situations.
The traditional animals include:
Dragon
Tiger
Horse
Snake
Falcon
Tortoise
Eagle
Bear
Swallow
Sparrow Hawk
Rooster
Monkey
Through the animal forms, practitioners refine agility, adaptability, and advanced martial tactics.
Linking Forms
Linking forms combine the Five Elements and Twelve Animals into longer flowing sequences.
These forms train:
- timing
- transitions
- continuous attacking pressure
- tactical combinations
Students typically progress through several levels of linking practice, gradually learning how individual techniques connect into fluid martial action.
Partner Training and Sparring
Xingyi techniques are also practiced through structured partner drills and sparring forms.
These exercises develop:
- distance control
- timing
- tactical awareness
- practical application of striking techniques
Because the sequences are practiced cooperatively, students can train powerful techniques safely while developing genuine martial skill.
Weapons Training
Advanced training may also include traditional weapons such as the two-handed sword and spear.
Weapons practice further develops coordination, stepping mechanics, and the ability to generate power through the entire body.
Partner Training and Sparring
Xingyi techniques are also practiced through structured partner drills and sparring forms.
These exercises develop:
- distance control
- timing
- tactical awareness
- practical application of striking techniques
Because the sequences are practiced cooperatively, students can train powerful techniques safely while developing genuine martial skill.
The Depth of Xingyi
Xingyi Quan is deceptively simple.
Its movements are direct and compact, yet the depth of the system can take a lifetime to explore.
Through disciplined practice, students gradually develop power, clarity, resilience, and calm presence — qualities that define the classical martial artist.
The training methods described above form the core of the classical Xingyi system practiced at 10,000 Victories in San Rafael.
To understand the historical roots of this tradition and the lineage through which it has been preserved, explore the history of Xingyi Quan below.