Martial Arts(武术):
In Chinese, it is pronounced as: wǔ shù，Written as:

Martial Arts refer to a series of traditional Chinese martial disciplines and combat skills, encompassing a rich array of techniques, cultural significance, and philosophical depth. Martial Arts serve not only as a form of physical training but also as a cultural heritage and philosophical practice.
The origins of Martial Arts can be traced back to ancient China, initially developed for hunting and self-defense. Over time, Martial Arts gradually integrated into military training and civilian entertainment. Throughout its historical evolution, Martial Arts absorbed elements of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, eventually forming a unique cultural system that continued to evolve across various dynasties, giving rise to multiple schools and styles.
Traditional Martial Arts include various forms of fistfighting and weaponry routines, such as Tai Chi Quan, Bagua Zhang, Xingyi Quan, Shaolin Quan, and Nan Quan. Each style possesses unique techniques, footwork, and characteristics. Since the 20th century, Martial Arts have been reorganized and standardized, evolving into modern forms and Sanda, becoming one of the competitive sports events. Martial Arts are often categorized into Neijia Quan and Waijia Quan. Neijia Quan emphasizes internal Cultivation and the use of Qi, like Tai Chi Quan, whereas Waijia Quan focuses on the training of strength and speed, like Shaolin Quan.
Martial Arts are deeply influenced by traditional Chinese philosophy, particularly Taoist and Confucian thought, emphasizing natural harmony and the balance of Yin and Yang. Martial Arts are not merely a set of skills but a mode of cultural expression, rich with historical narratives, legends, and artistic representations. They stress self-cultivation, self-discipline, and the continual transcendence of personal limits, representing a lifelong practice.
As Martial Arts have been incorporated into international sports competitions, they have garnered global attention and participation, including in forms like Martial Arts routines and Sanda competitions. Many individuals engage in practices such as Tai Chi Quan and Qigong to enhance their physique and health. Through films, television, books, and other media, Martial Arts have been widely disseminated globally, becoming a significant symbol of Chinese culture.
As a unique cultural heritage, Martial Arts continue to attract countless enthusiasts worldwide. Through preservation and innovation, Martial Arts not only maintain their traditional essence but also continuously adapt to meet the needs of modern society.