THE King of Weapons

The Shaolin Spear in Six Rounds (Liuhe Di Tang Qiang) is widely regarded as the most sophisticated weapon in the Shaolin arsenal. Historically created by Monk Fuju during the Song Dynasty, this system is a synthesis of the finest spear techniques from the Yang, Luo, and Ma family traditions. It was specifically designed to improve the actual combat abilities of the Shaolin monks, focusing on the 'Six Closings'—a series of defensive maneuvers that leave no opening for an opponent. This 2-DVD set, featuring Grandmaster Liu Baoshan, unveils the technical routine that has been a closely guarded secret of the temple for centuries.

INTEGRATION OF ELITE SPEAR STYLES

The 'Liuhe' (Six Harmonies) aspect of this spear style refers to the perfect coordination of the practitioner's body with the weapon's trajectory. Biomechanically, the spear requires a unique form of Fa-Jin (Explosive Power) that is transmitted through the shaft to the tip. The routine includes jabbing the shoulders, throat, and feet, as well as sweeping and chopping movements. Master Liu Baoshan demonstrates the 'Spear-Body Integration' (Shen Qiang He Yi), where the spear moves as if it were a natural extension of the limbs. The flexibility of the spear's tip, combined with the solid rooting of the practitioner's stances, creates a weapon that is both fluid and unstoppable.

GROUND TACTICS AND AGILITY

A unique feature of this specific routine is the 'Di Tang' or ground-fighting element. This involves low-stance maneuvers, rolling, and sweeping attacks designed to overwhelm an opponent from an unexpected angle. The DVD provides detailed instruction on how to maintain weapon control while performing agile ground transitions. These techniques are particularly effective for close-quarters combat and for defending against multiple attackers. The 'Six Rounds' structure ensures that the practitioner is prepared for every possible line of attack, utilizing the spear's length to keep opponents at bay while waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

MARTIAL PHILOSOPHY AND HERITAGE

Grandmaster Liu Baoshan's presentation of the Liuhe Spear is a masterclass in martial precision. He emphasizes the importance of 'Closing Spears'—the art of neutralizing an opponent's weapon before delivering a counter-thrust. The instructional content covers both solo technical routines and two-person applications, providing a holistic understanding of spear combat. This 2-DVD set is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to master the 'King of Weapons' as it was practiced in the Songshan Shaolin Temple. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Shaolin's martial wisdom and the technical brilliance of the Liu family lineage.