CRANE - patience, grace and elegance

If you observe a crane you will probably be impressed by its stability and tranquility, and perhaps be surprised that its slender solitary-standing leg can support such an enormous weight. A crane often seems frozen in space and time. When suddenly it takes off, despite its huge size and apparent immobility, its movements are swift and graceful, demonstrating an excellent way of conserving and using energy. Manifested in Shaolin Kung Fu, the characteristic of the crane form is elegance, and its essence is quiescence.

While patterns involving standing on one leg as in kicking, spreading the arms like the crane’s wings, and using the crane beak are discernible expressions of the crane form, other patterns which demonstrate quiescence or elegance also derive their inspiration from crane. Other bird forms that vocalize are not a part of the crane system as they do not incorporate the tranquil essence.

Its ability to defeat an opponent comes from its ability to hook an adversary's blows, divert them and strike, whether from close up or from a distance.   The Crane's long wing span and legs have been incorporated into the Shaolin five animal form to allow a practitioner to place some distance between himself and his opponent.   Crane training is excellent for developing the fingers, arms and legs.