In regards to BaGuaZhang training, the practice of circle walking, or "Turning the Circle", iis at the heart of this style in all its stances and movements. For beginners the circle is six to twelve feet in diameter. Practitioners walk around the edge of the circle in various low stances, facing the center, and periodically change direction as they execute forms.
Students first learn flexibility and proper body alignment through such exercises, then move on to more complex forms and internal power mechanics.
The internal aspects of baguazhang are similar to, yet distinct from, those of Xingyi and Tai Chi. Fu Zhensong with big Bagua broadsword Many distinctive styles of weapons are contained within baguazhang, some use concealment like the "scholar's pen" or a pair of knives (the most elaborate, which are unique to the style, are the crescent-shaped deer horn knives).
Baguazhang is also known for practicing with extremely large weapons, such as the Bāguàjian (八卦劍) or 'Bagua Sword' and Bāguàdāo (八卦刀) or 'Bagua Broadsword'. Other more conventional weapons are also used like the staff (gun), the spear (qiang), the crutch (guai), the hook sword (gou) and the straight (double-edged) sword.
Baguazhang practitioners are known for their ability to "flow" in and out of the way of objects. This is where the theory of being able to fight multiple attackers came into view.
Strict Baguazhang teaches that if you are to defeat more than one opponent you must first learn to quickly eliminate an opponent with fast and effective joint locks, knockouts, breaks, and other form of physical trauma. Under close examination, Baguazhang can be compared to a form of above ground wrestling. Many of wrestling's philosophies are very similar to Baguazhang's. Baguazhang movements employ the whole body with smooth coiling and uncoiling actions, utilizing hand techniques, dynamic footwork, and throws. Rapid-fire movements draw energy from the center of the abdomen.