2018 Asian Games: An introduction of Daoshu & Gunshu

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01:27

Wushu may not be an Olympic event, but Sun Peiyuan's first gold in the Changquan class has brought about more attention for the sport. Yesterday we gave you an introduction to the ancient sport, and in the wake of Wu Zhaohua winning gold in men's all-rounder of Daoshu and Gunshu. We bring you a closer look at these disciplines.

DaoShu, is a form of Wushu where the participant uses a sword as the main element of the routine.

At international competitions, the routines on the junior level are compulsory where each athlete performs identical movements and sequences. On the senior level events, routines are self-choreographed, so they often contain much more acrobatic moves.

Gunshu refers to a long shaped staff from white wax wood as tall as the waist of a person standing with their arms stretched upward.

Both Daoshu and Gunshu are events at the Chinese National Games, as well as the Asian games and Wushu world championships. Competitors need perfect body co-ordinations with emphasis on the combination of vigor and suppleness when using the weapons.

Both of Daoshu and Gunshu belong to the Wushu taolu and are usually performed together at international championships as events for all-round competitors. Though it is still not an Olympic event, Beijing 2008 set wushu as a special event alongside the Olympics.