In the art of Xing Yi Chuan, the 12 animals, or 12 shapes are a set of fighting application strategies preserved in 12 forms. Each of these forms are named after a different animal. There are six land mammals and six birds, covering low and high attacks respectively. With the exception of the bird forms, the forms are fairly short in duration, and as a whole they require previous training. At least two of the forms being so demanding that they are not suitable for us older lads. They should be taught through applications not as forms, for this reason it is an advanced practice. It seems to take a lot of time to be taught all twelve of these forms in the Yi Zong tradition that I study, that being said they are taught differently and the forms are longer than in most other schools of Xing Yi.
Some conspiracy theorists speculate that the 12 animals were an influential on the creation of tai chi, and after studying them a little, I would not be surprised if this were true.
The 12 animals and tai chi.
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