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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Cheng Style Baguazhang, created by Cheng Tinghua in 19th-century Beijing (student of Dong Haichuan), merges Zhuan Zhang circle walking with Shuai Jiao wrestling takedowns. The Duanwei system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates Dragon Claw palm strikes, spiral hip throws, and deer-horn knives.

1st Duan – Green Dragon

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Circle walking Zhuan Zhang with Cheng Style Dragon Palm & Tang Ni Bu steps.

Symbolism & Meaning

Style founded by Cheng Tinghua merging Bagua circular footwork with Shuai Jiao throws.

2nd Duan – Blue Dragon

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Eight Swimming Body Palms You Shen Ba Gua Zhang form & fluid close-range throws.

Symbolism & Meaning

Specialization in elusive body-coiling around the opponent with instant throws.

3rd Duan – Silver Dragon

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Training with big Cheng Bagua Dao saber & deer horn knives Yuan Yang Yue.

Symbolism & Meaning

Transferring swimming body centrifugal force into heavy weapons.

4th Duan – Black Dragon

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Cheng Style 64 linked palms form, Chin Na joint locking, and weapon disarming.

Symbolism & Meaning

High level of applied self-defense focusing on continuous structure breaking.

5th Duan – Gold Palm (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu title. Running Kwoon and passing on Cheng Tinghua's legacy.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Certified teacher and guarantor of Cheng branch traditional teachings.

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Living legend and supreme Cheng family grandmaster.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Direct guardian and bearer of hero Cheng Tinghua's legacy.