Discover Sanda, a modern version of Chinese boxing
Sanda, also known as Chinese boxing, is a modern combat discipline derived from traditional Chinese martial arts. It combines striking, throwing and wrestling techniques, and is practised bare-handed against an opponent.
History of Sanda
Sanda (散打) literally means “free fight” in Chinese. It was developed in the 1970s by the Chinese army as a close-combat training method. The aim was to create an effective, realistic fighting system based on traditional martial arts principles, but adapted to modern needs.
Sanda was designed to be a competitive sport as well as a method of self-defense. It incorporates techniques from various Chinese martial arts styles, such as Kung Fu, Shuai Jiao (Chinese wrestling) and Qinna (control and submission techniques). Sanda competitions began to gain popularity in China in the 1980s, and the discipline quickly gained international recognition.
In 1990, the International Wushu Federation (IWUF) included Sanda in its official competitions, contributing to its worldwide dissemination. Today, Sanda is practiced by athletes from many countries and is recognized for its effectiveness as a combat sport and self-defense method.
Sanda Techniques and Rules
Sanda is distinguished by its combination of striking, throwing and wrestling techniques. Here are some of the main techniques used in Sanda :
- Striking techniques: Sanda includes punches, kicks and knees. Practitioners use Western boxing techniques as well as kicks derived from Chinese martial arts, such as circular kicks, side kicks and jump kicks.
- Throwing techniques: Sanda incorporates throwing and sweeping techniques, similar to those used in wrestling and judo. Practitioners learn to unbalance and throw their opponents to the ground.
- Wrestling techniques: Sanda also includes wrestling and control techniques, enabling practitioners to master their opponents on the ground.
Sanda competitions are held on a raised platform called a “leitai” (擂台). Fights are divided into rounds, and athletes wear protective gear such as gloves, shin guards and helmets. Fights are judged on the basis of points awarded for successful techniques, projections and controls. Sanda rules prohibit dangerous techniques such as blows to the head with elbows and knees, as well as attacks to the eyes and groin.
Sanda is recognized for its effectiveness as a self-defense method and combat sport. It is practiced by athletes of all levels, from beginners to professional competitors, and offers numerous physical and mental benefits, such as improved fitness, coordination and self-confidence.