“A reflection on a pool of water does not reveal its depth.”
Ya Quan, or Duck Fist, is attributed to a Taoist Master Liu Ya of the Tang Dynasty. It was through his careful observation of the ducks
under his care that he became inspired to develop the style. Despite its unusual appearance, Ya Quan is recognized as an effective
self-defense style of Kung Fu.
A Ya Quan fighter waddles instead of walking. This footwork conceals devastating kicks and sweep kicks as well. Hand techniques
includes chop, punches, and flaps that can be applied as defensive techniques similar to the styles of Crane Fist.
Movements in Ya Quan are all in pairs and symmetrical in left and right. The forms are long, graceful, fluid, and are beautiful to watch.
Ya Quan is a style of Kung Fu practiced in the provinces of Tianjin, Jilin, and Tangshan.
Although Ya Quan is a rare style of Kung Fu to find outside of China, it is a very effective style. During the end of Qing Dynasty,
most of the proficient fighters and professional bodyguards from Northern China were all Ya Quan experts.
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