The Development of Chinese Martial Arts in Taiwan since 1949

The International Journal of the History of Sport

Ling-Mei Ko, Meng-Chi Ting & Ping-Chao Lee

1 October 2018

Abstract

In Taiwan, the historical development of traditional Chinese martial arts, or kuoshu and wushu as they are called today, has been quite diverse. This paper examines the development of Chinese martial arts from 1949 to 2017 in the context of Taiwan based on available historical evidence and in-depth interviews. The results show that there were three major historical periods in the development of Chinese martial arts. The foundation period was inaugurated when Chinese martial artists fled to Taiwan with the Nationalists. During this period, martial arts studios spread throughout the country and people began learning the traditional Chinese martial arts skills together with the national physical education curriculum incorporated martial arts in schools. Chinese martial arts in Taiwan then entered the competitive sports period when the Chinese government to promote competitive martial arts internationally and to standardize the practice and grading system required for competitions. During this period, standardized rules for nationwide competition were established, and sports instructors and athletes were trained to participate in international wushu competitions. Currently, the Chinese martial arts have been modernized and being practised to build confidence, mental discipline, and physical strength as well as for self-defence, recreational pursuits, and competition.

About the Authors

Ling-Mei Ko – Associate Professor & Director Department of Leisure, Recreation and Tourism Management, Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Tainan City, Taiwan

 

 

 

Meng-Chi Ting – Department of Leisure, Recreation and Tourism Management, Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Tainan City, Taiwan

Ping-Chao Lee – Department of Physical Education, National Taichung University of Education, Taichung City, Taiwan