Mizong Quan

The origins of Mizong Quan (迷蹤拳) are difficult to establish because of the many legends surrounding it. Some trace it back to the Song dynasty, or even to the Sui and Tang dynasties. These accounts share the figure of Yanqing and a connection with Shaolin.

The first reliable written records, from the eighteenth century, mention Sun Tong, famous for his kicking techniques. From Shandong, he settled in Cangxian and had pupils including Chen Wanshan and Huo Xuwu. Huo Xuwu transmitted his knowledge to his son Huo Endi, whose bodyguard company became renowned.

His most famous successor was Huo Yuanjia, initially excluded from martial training because of his weak constitution but eventually recognised as the eighth-generation heir. Mizong destabilises an opponent through varied footwork: long and short steps, retreats and frequent changes of direction.

Its hand techniques adapt to changing distances and angles, which explains the meanings "labyrinth style" and, more literally, "lost-track style".