第一節 武術的概念 Section 1 Concept of Wushu
一、武術的曆史與文化 The History and Culture of Wushu
中國武術有著悠久的曆史，它是中華民族的先民在與自然、社會環境進行鬥爭的過程中萌生出的一種本能的個體技擊能力。中國功夫即中國武術，是當前世界對中國武術的通俗稱謂。中國武術與中國傳統文化一脈相承，尤其是它博大精深的包容性更增添了人們對它的神秘感。它外取神態，內表心靈，彰顯了民族性格，堪稱世界民族傳統體育的瑰寶。
Chinese Wushu (martial arts) has a long colorful history.Originally an individual combat skill, Wushu was developed by Chinese ancestors in their struggle against natural and social environments to survive.Kungfu is a colloquial term used around the world for it.Since the day it was born, Chinese Wushu has been closely connected with traditional Chinese culture.Its great inclusiveness helps to add a space of mystery and intrigue to it.Chinese Wushu has become a token of Chinese national character, revealing significant aspects of the Chinese people.With a grace that “combines the external body movements and the internal heart and soul”, it has established a reputation as a valuable asset among traditional sports in the world.
時至今日，中國武術已自成體係，它把踢、打、摔、拿、跌、擊、劈、刺等動作，按照一定規律組成徒手和器械的各種攻防格鬥功夫、套路和單勢練習，不僅具有強身健體的作用，還有防身自衛的功能及其特有的審美價值，深受人們的喜愛。
Today Chinese Wushu has established a system of its own, combining the actions of kicking, striking, thrusting etc. in a unique way to form, under standardized rules, a variety of attack and defense techniques, Taolu (a series of attack and tricks in Wushu) and forms.It is now not only very popular as an exercise for body fitness and self defense, but also highly regarded for its distinctive aesthetic value.