Wang Xiangzhai (1885-1963)

Wang Xiangzhai (1885-1963) and Yi Quan

Bong Yen Chai (Wang Xiangzhai) was born in Weilin Village in Hebei Province. One of the last students and a relative of the great Guo Yun Shen, he learned the foundations of Hsing Yi.
He made two extensive trips through China in 1907 and 1918. During these trips, he exchanged techniques with some of the best martial artists in China. During this period, he continued to improve his skills by learning other styles including: Shaolin, Tai Chi, Ba gua, Crane and Mei Fa Chuan.

By 1925, Wang had established a considerable reputation in the martial arts community as a great martial artist and teacher. He was active in promoting a renewed interest in the Chinese martial arts. At the same time, the essence of his teachings evolved from the traditional practice of the Hsing Yi to a new style that focuses on zhan zhuang (standing) exercises.
This new style was named "Yi Quan" (Intention Fist) or "DA Cheng Quan" (Great Achievement Boxing). Wang and most of his students remained near Beijing during the War with Japan and after the Chinese civil war. During this period, he published two books, "Correct Path of Yiquan" and "Theory of DA Cheng Quan". He also continued to teach and, at one time, his students numbered as many as 100. His teachings and practice were affected by the Chinese Cultural Revolution. In 1951 he publicly gave up teaching the combat aspects of Yi quan and began to promote its health benefits. For the remainder of his life, Wang Ziangzhai traveled to different hospitals throughout China to introduce his health cultivation methods. He died on July 12, 1963, in Tianjin.

His students, who continue to spread his teachings throughout the world, have preserved the legacy of Yi quan.