Learn about Mei Hua Zhuang (Plum Blossom Poles) - Kung Fu Training Technique

This page provides details for Kung Fu training tool known as Mei Hua Zhuang or Plum Blossom Poles. This training system consists of large poles (similar to telephone poles) sunk into the ground. Students will then practice their martial arts techniques (i.e. stances) by stepping from the top of one pole to another pole. This training technique improves balance, footwork, leg strength, coordination. etc.

While some Chinese martial arts schools use poles high off the ground, others have short posts in order to reduce potential injuries if students fall. Most students start with low poles that are close to the ground and then progress to higher and higher poles. This training technique is known by different Mandarin and Cantonese names including Mui Fa Jong (Plum Flower Posts). Moreover, this tool is known as "Plum Blossom" because the poles or posts were often set out in the shape of a plum tree's blossom.

This training tool is not used extensively in the West. However, it is a significant training component of some Kung Fu styles in China. Moreover, you are likely to have seen this tool in countless old Kung Fu movies where opponents are battling each other on top of what looks like a field of telephone poles.

For other traditional training tools, please visit the Martial Arts Training Equipment section.

Pictures of Plum Blossom Pole Training

References

1. Kung Fu Tea, Traditional Training Equipment in the Chinese Martial Arts, http://chinesemartialstudies.com/2012/08/24/traditional-training-equipment-in-the-chinese-martial-arts-part-ii-attack-of-the-wooden-dummies/, Added - 09/23/14
2. Plum Publications, The Plum Flower Piles: Watch Your Step, http://www.plumpub.com/kaimen/2011/the-plum-flower-piles-watch-your-step/, Added - 09/23/14
3. Black & White Picture of Plum Blossom Pole Training courtesy of Plum Publications, http://www.plumpub.com/kaimen/, Added - 10/11/14
4. Color Picture of Plum Blossom Pole Training courtesy of Wudang Kung Fu Bucuresti, http://www.wdkf.ro | https://www.facebook.com/wdkf.ro, Added - 04/21/15