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Mi Zong Quan (Confusion Fist)
Mi Zong Quan is also known as Yan Qing Quan (Yan Qing Fist), Mi Lu Quan (Lose One’s Way Fist), and Mi Zong Yi (Confusion Art). All of these names have to do with the origin of the style. For example, one version has it that it originated at the end of the Tang Dynasty (618-907). By the time of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), it was further developed by Lu Jun Yi. Lu taught the style to Yan Qing shortly before both became rebels at Liang Shan (Mount Liang) in Shandong Province. Yan Qing later taught the style to many, and the style took on the name Yan Qing Quan. Another version has it that Yan Qing first taught the style to many, then became a rebel at Mount Liang. Because Yan Qing became a wanted man, his students changed the name of the style to Mi Zong Quan. Yet another version claims that when Yan Qing was pursued by government troops to the foothills of Mount Liang, he left no footsteps in the snow, and confused the pursuing men. Thus the style was called Mi Zong Yi.
The main characteristics of Mi Zong Quan are speed and agility, and unpredictability in movements. It depends greatly on the strength of the torso and legs. Also, coordination between the legs and eyes are important. Eyesight is concentrated at one spot, but at the same time takes notice of all directions, assisting in the coordination of movements. Leg movement requires strength and speed, and should be neat and efficient. Most forms are combinations of hand movements, feet movements, leg movements, balanced leaping and some fifty additional movements. Upper body attacks include toss, slap, roll, and capture, while lower body movements include leap, cut, hang, and tangle. Lower body movements are most important, and stresses complex footwork, dodges and sidesteps, and coordinated leaps.