Xing Yi Quan is one of the three most famous styles in internal martial arts. Believed to be developed by Yue Fei, a national hero in the Song Dynasty, it became very popular in the late Qing Dynasty. There have been many renowned Xing Yi Quan experts over the years. The Wudang Xing Yi Quan is based on 6 principles.

The three internal principles are:

• Heart synchronizes with mind
• Mind synchronizes with internal energy
• Internal energy synchronizes with power

The three external principles are:

• Hand/arm synchronizes with foot/leg
• Elbow synchronizes with knee
• Shoulder synchronizes with hip

Emphasis is on control of the mind, leading the internal power and resulting in external movement. The mind, internal power, and external movement synchronize with each other. As the training covers both internal and external, one would achieve not only good health, but also a better temperament, and knowledge of effective combat applications.

The two theories of training in Xing Yi Quan include the 12 styles and 5 elements. The 12 styles are: dragon, tiger, monkey, horse, alligator, chicken, sparrow hawk, swallow, snake, globe fish, eagle, and bear. Each style is normally practiced independently. The emphasis is on the 6 principles of synchronization. Characteristics include the waist turning like dragon, arm movements like a bear, plunging like an eagle, jumping like a tiger, and walking like a chicken.

The theory of the 5 elements covers 5 different types of punching styles. According to ancient theories, the 5 elements (gold, wood, water, fire and earth) are fundamental and interconnected. In practicing Xing Yi Quan, the requirements are: slow to fast, relaxing, and integrating hard and soft. The ultimate aim is to achieve internal and external skill and strength.