The Crane

"From the Crane, we learn grace and self-control." - Master Kan, from the classic tv show, 'Kung Fu'

The Crane is another of the famous animal styles of kung fu, ancient and very widely dispersed...the origins of the style trace back to Tibet and Northern China originally; later a Southern/ Taiwanese/ Fujien Crane style was developed...Crane is also an elemental part of Taiji Ch'uan, especially Yang style and it's derivitives...because of it's ancient Daoist and Northern and Southern Shaolin origins and influences, combined with it's Taiji influence, Crane techniques and methods are now very widely dispersed world-wide; influencing and/ or being a part of many, many styles, such as: Wing Chun, 5 Ancestor's, 5 Form Fist, Choy Lay Fut, Kempo/ Kenpo, Shotokan, Shorin Ryu, Goju Ryu, Chito Ryu, Uechi Ryu, Korean styles, and many others...the Northern styles of White Crane/ Bok Hok/ Lama Pai are primarily long-range styles, featuring flowing movement, long-arm/ wing methods, long-range kicks and low sweeps...this is the Crane style which influenced Taiji, originally, obviously being modified to fit the style (the flowing nature of N. Crane, as well as long-arm/wing techs., balance, evasion and patience- along with other features- being ideal for taiji, of course taiji also utilizes short-range techniques similar to Southern Crane, as well)...Southern Crane styles feature complex hand/ wing techniques, quick multiple kicking methods, specialized breathing methods, and much use of the 'Crane's Beak.' There are also lesser known Crane styles, such as Shaolin 'Black Crane.'

In general, Crane style stresses patience, stealth, balance, evasion, efficiency, accuracy (as in vital point striking), longevity, health, and peace...Crane is primarily an Internal style, and like the animal it is named after, the Crane stylist would rather avoid trouble than confront it...famous Crane techniques and methods include: the Crane's Beak, the Crane's Wings, Crane Talons/ Claws, and the Sun Fist...Crane is also known for it's single- legged stance training; some of the Crane Stance's include: Front Crane, Side Crane, Hooked Crane, and Lifting Crane...depending on style, there are many and various breathing methods, internal and external, martial and healing...if you have never tried any Crane style, I recommend learning some Crane Stance and Stepping Methods, as they integrate well with and enhance any style...regardless, a little Crane goes a long Way...enjoy.