Have you ever heard of Sanda or Sanshou? If you answered yes or no to that question, here's a brief definition. It's a martial art that originated in China. Like boxing, it incorporates self-defense techniques, as well as kicks and punches. Here's a quick overview.
The origins
Like all other sports, Sanda has diverse origins and a fascinating history. This boxing style, originating in China, began with the military. In 1924, Nationalist China established a military academy in the Guangdong region with the primary goal of creating an elite force for the army. The aim was to train soldiers in modern, unarmed combat. This academy drew inspiration from the Russians, particularly their strong discipline, indoctrination, and training methods. Therefore, Chinese boxing is influenced by Russian Sambo.
With this in mind, the leader of the Nationalist faction in China hired Mikhail Borodin to train the army. And it was from this that sanda, or Chinese boxing, was born and became a discipline in its own right.
Originally called Sanshou, Sanda, a martial art like boxing, has had a significant impact on close combat. While Russian methods have also left their mark on this discipline, they have also drawn some inspiration from Chinese styles and techniques.
The principles and techniques
Like all martial arts, sanda, or Chinese boxing, also has well-defined principles and techniques. Indeed, the fundamental principles of this fighting art are based on counting punches:
- If you deliver a precise and powerful kick to the upper body, that is, above the waist, you score 2 points.
- Furthermore, if the kick is aimed at the lower waist, it's 1 point.
- A punch to the body and also to the head is also worth 1 point.
- If you manage to throw your opponent to the ground, you will score 2 points.
- However, if you fall to the ground with your opponent, but they are thrown, you get 1 point.
- And finally, the best thing is when you make 2 throws outside the fighting area, you immediately win the round.
On the technical side, we'll also explain how Sanda works. First, you should know that fighters practice on a platform called "the platform." This platform is 8 meters by 8 meters and is raised 80 cm off the ground. To prevent injuries, the platform is surrounded by protective mats. Indeed, Sanshou, or Sanda, combines four basic techniques typical of Chinese martial arts:
- The striking and percussive technique, or "Da" as they call it: this is where you use your fists, the palms of your hands, your elbows, your fingers, and even your head.
- There is also the shooter or "Tui": an unbalancing technique where you use kicks, knees, and sweeps
- "Shuai," or the technique of throwing and grappling, obviously includes wrestling, various throws, and ground techniques.
- The "Na" or the input and key techniques: including inputs, various submissions and keys normally.
We can tell you, then, that Sanda encompasses various techniques, including Kung Fu Wushu. This makes the practice truly interesting and varied, thanks to its combination of combat sport and self-defense. However, to practice, the fighter must wear gloves, a chest protector, and a helmet. You can win by knockout during a two-minute fight or round, and the fighters must be in the same weight class.
Learn sanda
To have complete mastery of a martial art is to become a master. However, to reach this status, you must first learn. And the best thing about Western martial arts is that they manage to blend spirituality, techniques, and above all, self-control. Indeed, you should know that the benefit of practicing Sanda is its connection to spirituality. This allows you to better manage all your emotions. But how do you learn Sanda? The answer is very simple: you must find a master and a calm, peaceful place where your soul and mind can be completely at peace. And the master, if they are willing, will teach you all the techniques and the fundamentals of the art.
Furthermore, if you can't find a master, you should then seek out an expert or professional in the field. They may not be a true sanda master, but this individual can teach you all the necessary methods and techniques. Therefore, it's up to you to choose who you will turn to for your sanda training. However, a word of advice: learning with a master is the most ideal option, as they can even share their little secrets and methods known only to them.
Conclusion
In short, sanda, also known as sanshou, is a form of Chinese boxing that incorporates various techniques and methods. A very ancient practice, sanda was also traditionally practiced in a ring. Furthermore, this practice has become a combat technique adapted for the military and armed forces to improve their hand-to-hand combat skills.
