Good points, Anton!
I've never actually thought about most sets in terms of level or sophistication, I've always considered them more like a platform for developing skills and application. However, you're absolutely right - some patterns, applications and strategies are definitely harder to practice putting to use than others. For example, I still feel daunted even by the thought of trying to use the patterns Travelling Dragon Set for weapon sparring even though I've learned the set well. It's footwork is ludicrously intricate.
So, based on my practice of these sets, I'd rank them by level as follows.
Arguments: In Dragon set, many of the key patterns require considerable internal force and skill in applying internal force to be able to be used effectively. Same with the Monkey, but perhaps to a slightly lesser degree. The Flower Set is long and sophisticated, but contains many patterns and applications which are quite simple and direct, and relatively easy to learn and use. Same with the 72 pattern Tiger Crane set, but I've placed the Flower set above it due to its bigger range of techniques, hand forms, footwork and application. The Five Elemental Continuous Fist of Xingyiquan may be rich in application, but compared to the other sets in this list in my opinion it is quite simple and direct.
Looking forward to see other comments and ideas on this!
Best wishes,
I've never actually thought about most sets in terms of level or sophistication, I've always considered them more like a platform for developing skills and application. However, you're absolutely right - some patterns, applications and strategies are definitely harder to practice putting to use than others. For example, I still feel daunted even by the thought of trying to use the patterns Travelling Dragon Set for weapon sparring even though I've learned the set well. It's footwork is ludicrously intricate.
So, based on my practice of these sets, I'd rank them by level as follows.
- Dragon Set
- Monkey Set
- Flower Set
- 72 Tiger-Crane
- Five Elemental Continous Fist of Xingyiquan
Arguments: In Dragon set, many of the key patterns require considerable internal force and skill in applying internal force to be able to be used effectively. Same with the Monkey, but perhaps to a slightly lesser degree. The Flower Set is long and sophisticated, but contains many patterns and applications which are quite simple and direct, and relatively easy to learn and use. Same with the 72 pattern Tiger Crane set, but I've placed the Flower set above it due to its bigger range of techniques, hand forms, footwork and application. The Five Elemental Continuous Fist of Xingyiquan may be rich in application, but compared to the other sets in this list in my opinion it is quite simple and direct.
Looking forward to see other comments and ideas on this!
Best wishes,
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