Duan Da (短打) – Face-to-Face Fighting

While the literal translation of Duan Da is Close Fighting, a more precise definition is Face-to-Face Fighting. This term is not applied to Free-Style Fighting, which is referred to as San Shou and Sanda; rather, it refers to close-in training with a partner.

In a Traditional Wushu Guan (a martial arts school), all aspects of training are aimed at developing the ability to defend oneself, and since all fighting requires contact with an opponent, developing Duan Da skills is a necessity.

The term “Face-to-Face Fighting” as the English translation for Duan Da is appropriate because it fosters the proper mental attitude that is required when dealing with a real, unprovoked attack. When training with a partner, no matter whether you are practicing self-defense techniques, Qinna, or fighting combinations, you must step forward with focus, single-minded purpose, and the resolve you would need if you were on an ancient battlefield. Always be mindful that you will respond to an actual attack in the manner that you have trained.

Face-to-Face Fighting in the traditional Chinese martial arts school is often practiced through Partner Fighting Forms, called Dui Da (對打) or Two People Fighting. Partner Forms can be practiced with both weapons and empty hands. They can be simple or complex and should always incorporate the style’s fighting principles and characteristics.

Partner Forms teach you to respond to your opponent’s attacks and enable you to mount a counterattack. Each partner fighting set can incorporate dozens of such exchanges. Some attacks can be simple, eliciting simple defensive movements and counterattacks, while others may be compound, requiring multiple defensive movements followed by counters.

Practicing Partner Forms with weapons adds an element of danger. A delayed response, a lapse in focus can lead to injury. Because of this inherent danger, partner weapon forms are reserved for advanced students.

Duan Da practice, whether fighting combinations or partner forms, teaches you to gauge distance and timing. You will improve your footwork and sharpen your reaction skills while developing a fighting strategy.