TAOLU
Taolu refers to the set routine (form) practice component of wushu. A taolu routine comprises of a continuously connected set of pre-determined techniques choreographed according to certain principles and philosophies to incorporate stylistic principles of attack and defense. These include hand techniques, leg techniques, jumps, sweeps, stances and footwork, seizing, throwing and wrestling, and balances.
Traditionally, taolu routines were compiled to preserve the techniques and tactics of a particular lineage or system, and through regular training would gradually improve a practitioner’s flexibility, stamina, strength, speed, balance, and co-ordination, and would “imprint” a tactical order into practitioners. Taolu routines include individual routines and group routines, as well as duel routines with 2 or more practitioners involved. They have a rich and diverse content, utilizing both bare-handed techniques as well as those performed with weapons.
Sport wushu has developed from traditional wushu and is presented to the world in the form of a modern Olympic-level sport with a perfect combination of ancient practices and modern sports principles. Athletes perform routines (barehanded or with weaponry) based on specific rules, highlighting their athletic strengths.
Routines are appraised by a panel of judges who evaluate different aspects of a performance, namely quality of movements, overall performance and degree of difficulty, and award a score based on an athlete’s performance. Individual taolu routines include optional routines, compulsory routines, choreographed duel/sparring routines and group routines. Taolu competition takes place in a specialized 8m x 14m arena, which comprises of high density foam covered by a low-static carpet.