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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.

Piguaquan (Chop-Hitch Fist), a traditional Northern Chinese style from Hebei and Shandong, is famed for its relaxed long-arm whipping power and continuous torso rotation. The Duanwei rank system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates Pigua chopping strikes, Tongbei wave mechanics, Guo Zhi forms, and the Miaodao two-handed saber.

1st Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Mabu stance, relaxed Tongbi arm-whipping, and introductory Pigua Quan form.

Symbolism & Meaning

Classical Northern Chinese wushu style famous for long whipping palm strikes.

2nd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Yilu Piguaquan form, rapid shoulder rotations in motion, and chopping palm strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Developing spine flexibility and centrifugal power generated from hips.

3rd Duan – Silver Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Advanced Erlu Piguaquan form, two-handed Miaodao sword drills, and sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

Integrating whipping fist combat with the long two-handed Miaodao blade.

4th Duan – Black Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Pigua Qinglong set, merging long Pigua with close Baji, and Sanda sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

Famous Chinese proverb: "When Pigua is combined with Baji, gods tremble".

5th Duan – Gold Level (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu title. Running Kwoon & transmitting Ma Fengzhang lineage.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Certified teacher and guarantor of Chop-Hanging Fist tradition.

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Living legend and supreme Piguaquan grandmaster.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Direct guardian and bearer of traditional Pigua art legacy.