The Shanxi and Hebei Styles of Xingyi Quan

The origins of Xingyi Quan are credited to Li Laoneng, who is said to have learned Xinyi Liuhe Quan (Heart Mind Six Harmony Boxing) from Dai Longbang of Taigu in Shanxi Province. Although this is the generally transmitted tradition, it is more likely that he learned from one of Dai Longbang’s descendants.

This assumption is due to the chronological dates which don’t match the time period, as Dai Longbang would have already passed away at the time that Li is said to have studied with him. The focus of this post is to briefly explore the differences in origin and characteristics between the Shanxi and Hebei schools of Xingyi Quan.

Li Laoneng was already well versed in various styles of Chinese martial arts and was adept in Daoism. It is said that he combined what he had learned of Dai Xinyi with his previous experience in other styles and certain Daoist concepts to create Xingyi Quan (Form Mind Boxing)

Li Laoneng had countless followers and Eight Famous Disciples, principally from the Shanxi and Hebei Provinces.

The disciples from Shanxi were Che Yizhai, Song Shide, Li Guangheng, and Song Shirong. Of these, Che Yizhai was the most renowned.

The disciples from Hebei were Liu Qilan, Guo Yunshen, He Yunheng, and Liu Xiaolan. The most famous among these was Guo Yunshen.

According to tradition, the teachings of these two groups of disciples eventually gave rise to what became the Shanxi and Hebei Styles of Xingyi Quan.

The core curriculum of the two systems is generally the same. Both contain the Five Elements Fists, and the Twelve Animals Forms, along with many other common sets. However, each school has certain distinguishing characteristics.

The characteristics of Shanxi Xingyi Quan: The Shanxi style uses a slightly slanted posture with the arms somewhat restrained; it is known as the Small Frame. The release of power is also more contained.

The characteristics of Hebei Xingyi Quan: The Hebei style uses an upright posture which is more open, with techniques that tend to be more expansive; it is known as the Large Frame. The release of power is more explosive and far reaching.

In our schools we practice Hebei Style Xingyi Quan as taught by Di Guoyong of Beijing. Most of the information in this post comes from discussions I have had with Di Laoshi and with other teachers about the origins of Xingyi Quan.