Being one of the earliest Chinese combat techniques, the White Ape Tongbei Fist is named after the arm movements of apes. It focuses on the mindset rather than the form of apes. It is also referred to as the Tongbei Ape.

The technique was introduced to Beijing during the Qing Dynasty between 1820 and 1850. It features 24 consecutive moves and involves keeping one's arms stretched and swinging. The fist move is characterized by its flexibility. Practitioners can switch between moves smoothly. The technique is quite practical in real combat and has gained a great reputation in Niujie communities in Beijing.

The fist move is quite effective for its long striking distance and nimbleness. It focuses on one's speed and strength as well as mental resilience. Zhang Bin, who has been familiar with the books on fists since childhood, says the key to flexibility lies in practicing basic skills and reaching higher levels. One can penetrate deeper when the body and the mind work in unison.

"As the book says, the shoulder blades should be flexible as fans and the hands should move in unison. Hit the stump all the way through and keep your vision afar. Hitting it through is the very essence of practicing the White Ape Tongbei Fist," says Zhang.

Zhang's passion for martial arts has been passed on from his elders. Zhang Guizeng, Zhang's father, is the fourth-generation inheritor of Niujie White Ape Tongbei Fist, who devoted himself to promoting the art. Zhang Bin has been mastering the moves and teaching his disciples. He also wrote books on the fist as well as his experience of practicing the moves.

"White Ape Tongbei Fist has a dynamic foundation. You make the body strong before honing the techniques. When you become more adept, you are able to apply it freely," says Zhang.

With his efforts, the White Ape Tongbei Fist has been publicized and promoted. Over time, the purposes of practicing these fist moves have changed from defending oneself to the pursuit of a healthy body. Zhang has created a daily exercise routine based on some of the fist moves.

"Most people have stiff shoulders due to drawn-out desk work. The White Ape Tongbei Fist is beneficial in mobilizing your shoulder blades like flower petals," says Zhang.

After a hundred years, with its distinctive cultural connotation and local characteristics, the White Ape Tongbei Fist has become a precious intangible cultural heritage in China. With the efforts of martial artists like Zhang, this traditional treasure has been popularized among the masses, who have adopted it with open arms.