武术套路是一连串含有技击和攻防含义的动作组合。套路是中国武术及其他东亚武术的中一种独特形式，也是区别于其他武术的一大技术特征。 其实不论地域和流派，但凡武术，除了体能、力量、速度、反应、准确度的锻炼外，更重要的是一些临敌攻防时的拆解技巧，这是任何种类的武术都不缺的。不过似乎只有东亚武术有把这些技巧凝固为“招式”，并且把一连串攻防常用的招式串连为“套路”，供纪录及平素操练时使用的习惯。
Taolu, refers to the set routine (form) practice component of wushu.Taolu routines comprise of a continuously connected set of pre-determinedtechniques, choreographed according to certain principles and philosophies which incorporate techniques and stylistic principles ofattack and defense. These include hand techniques, leg techniques,jumps, sweeps, stances & footwork, seizing, throwing & wrestling,balances etc. Traditionally, Taolu routines were originally compiled to preserve the techniques and tactics of a particular lineage or system, and would gradually improve a practitioner's flexibility, stamina, strength, speed, balance and co-ordination, and would "imprint" a tactical order into practitioners. Taolu routines include individual routines and group routines, as well as partner/duel routines with 2 or more practitioners involved
Chang Quan (Long Fist): Changquan utilizes open and expanded postures, high speed techniques as well as many aerial and acrobatic techniques. It is a fast, dynamic and exciting style, incorporating many breathtaking movements.
Taiji Quan (Tai Chi Chuan): Taiji Quan is characterized by its slow and graceful motions and its combination of both hard and soft techniques. Taiji Quan is defined by slow motions, coupled at times with explosive bursts of force, which require total harmony of motion and breath, concentration and co-ordination of the entire body and spirit in a continuous practice
Jianshu (Straight sword): It is a double-edged straight bladed sword and its practice is characterized by graceful, elegant, brisk, agile and naturally flowing motions. It focuses on a harmonious balance between hard and soft techniques with variable and flexible changes in speed. Its primary techniques include thrusting, pointing, tilting, shearing and sweeping combined with intricate footwork, and flexible body work.
Nan Quan (Southern Fist): Nanquan is defined by low stances with fewer leg techniques and a focus on short, powerful arm strikes often accompanied by vocal articulation. Focusing on a solid stance and stability, Nanquan has relatively fewer acrobatic techniques, but rather concentrates on generating extremely powerful techniques with intricate and highly developed hand techniques. It is a fierce and powerful style whose practitioners exude a strong spirit.
Gunshu (Cudgel): Considered the “father” of all weapons, the long cudgel is fast paced which focuses on far reaching sweeping techniques. Combining offensive and defensive techniques, it is characterized by quick and heavy movements, with fast and numerous changes. The most commonly used techniques include, chopping, butting, sweeping, smashing and rotating.
Nangun (Southern Cudgel): “Nangun” is the collective term given for all the different types of cudgel styles which have originated in and are practiced in the southern parts of China such as the “Double Headed Cudgel”, and “Single Headed Cudgel” as well as techniques from other southern cudgel styles.
Taiji Jian (Tai Chi Straight sword): Taiji Jian features the double-edged straight sword employed with Taiji Quan principles and characteristics. Taiji Jian is defined by slow motions, coupled at times with explosive bursts of force, which require total harmony of motion and breath, concentration and co-ordination of the entire body and spirit in a continuous practice.
Daoshu (Broadsword): It is a single-edged curved blade and its practice is characterized by vigorous attack and defensive techniques. Its fierce and powerful movements primarily utilize wrapping and entwining techniques with relentless hacking, upper-cutting, slashing, blocking, thrusting and circling. Its performance requires great strength and co-ordination between the practitioner’s body and the weapon.
