第一节 武术的概念 Section 1 Concept of Wushu
一、武术的历史与文化 The History and Culture of Wushu
中国武术有着悠久的历史，它是中华民族的先民在与自然、社会环境进行斗争的过程中萌生出的一种本能的个体技击能力。中国功夫即中国武术，是当前世界对中国武术的通俗称谓。中国武术与中国传统文化一脉相承，尤其是它博大精深的包容性更增添了人们对它的神秘感。它外取神态，内表心灵，彰显了民族性格，堪称世界民族传统体育的瑰宝。
Chinese Wushu (martial arts) has a long colorful history.Originally an individual combat skill, Wushu was developed by Chinese ancestors in their struggle against natural and social environments to survive.Kungfu is a colloquial term used around the world for it.Since the day it was born, Chinese Wushu has been closely connected with traditional Chinese culture.Its great inclusiveness helps to add a space of mystery and intrigue to it.Chinese Wushu has become a token of Chinese national character, revealing significant aspects of the Chinese people.With a grace that “combines the external body movements and the internal heart and soul”, it has established a reputation as a valuable asset among traditional sports in the world.
时至今日，中国武术已自成体系，它把踢、打、摔、拿、跌、击、劈、刺等动作，按照一定规律组成徒手和器械的各种攻防格斗功夫、套路和单势练习，不仅具有强身健体的作用，还有防身自卫的功能及其特有的审美价值，深受人们的喜爱。
Today Chinese Wushu has established a system of its own, combining the actions of kicking, striking, thrusting etc. in a unique way to form, under standardized rules, a variety of attack and defense techniques, Taolu (a series of attack and tricks in Wushu) and forms.It is now not only very popular as an exercise for body fitness and self defense, but also highly regarded for its distinctive aesthetic value.