Eight Trigrams Kung Fu

Ba Gua

Ba Gua is among the most intellectual of all the martial arts. Analyzing the eight Trigrams of the I Ching, the creators have translated them into the "eight directions" representing angles of attack and defense; the "eight steps" of movement; and the "eight palms" of strikes and deflections. The result is a graceful martial art, where the circular movement of Chi through the body is reflected in the circular movements of deflection and defense.

All the attacks are likewise circular and are well suited to use with Soft Chi. In order to achieve the grace and fluidity needed for true proficiency, students engage in an exercise called "Walking the Circle," where they spend hours stepping around, using their hands in coordination with their feet. In fact, anytime a character with Ba Guahas a few spare minutes, they should spend the time "Walking the Circle."

Level

Advanced

Years to Study

6

Dress

Loose cotton tunic and pants.

Alignment Requirements

None

Attribute Requirements

Wis. (12), Con. (12), Int. (12)

Number of Attacks

2

Free Moves

Roll with Punch/Fall/Impact, Dodge, Palm Strike, Sweep Kick, Disarm

Purchaseable Moves

Maintain Balance, Parry, Automatic Parry, Circular Parry, Knife Hand, Fingertip Attack, Backhand, Rotary Palm Strike, Backward Sweep, Tripping/Leg Hook, Body Flip/Throw, Forearm, Combo Parry/Attack, Pull Punch, K.O./Stun, Critical

Allowed Powers

Up to 2 from Chi Mastery and Special Katas (may choose Ba Gua Circle or Pun Gung Bi)

Recommended Skills

Language Modern, Artistic Ability (Feng Shui), Religion

Links to Moves

Martial Arts Kicks
Martial Arts Strikes
Martial Arts Movement
Martial Arts Evasions
Martial Arts Special Moves