Ba Gua Zhang: From Mystery to Mastery

dvd recyced until it tapped me on shoulder and urged me clean surface up. After that, we got on famously.

Bagua is a very effective martial art with a distinguished lineage but its unique approach of circle walking and rapid changes in direction can make it seem quite intimidating to a beginner even if you are already proficient in another martial art as I was (TaiChi & Karate).This is an excellent DVD which starts from the very basics of Bagua and provides step by step instructions to enable you to achieve a decent level of proficiency (assuming you practice diligently of course). Unlike some martial arts DVDs I own, the quality of the footage is very good and there are multiple views of each stance and technique with voice over instructions. It also has diagrams to emphasise the key aspects of footwork and stance so you know you are applying the principles correctly from the start.The whole DVD is very well structured and there are training suggestions to point you in the right directionIt also has sections demonstrating high level 'spontaneous' Bagua and the martial applications of Bagua so you can see where you are heading.Whether you are interested in Bagua for its martial effectiveness, its ability to build a stong, supple and flexible physique or just seeing how its unique approach contrasts with other martial arts, I highly recommend this DVD

This DVD has clear demonstrations and explanations of the techniques which has allowed me to practice at home without needing to find a class. There is enough material to, with consistent practice, attain a strong level of Bagua. After a couple of months of doing the standing postures, a little each day, I've noticed the difference in terms of core strength and balance, which is very useful for my taekwondo as well.