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Wushu, literally translated means military or martial arts. Often referred to as Kung Fu, wushu is the term used
to describe over 100 different styles of Chinese martial arts.
Contemporary Wushu was formed in the late 1960's when China incorporated traditional
forms of wushu with the aesthetic sensibility and athleticism of Peking Opera acrobatics. Distinguished by this new dynamic visual style, wushu became popular as a professional competitive sport and later, as
a martial art by action film stars as Jackie Chan and Jet Li. Jackie Chan's speed, acrobatics, agility and ability to sing as well as fight all reflect his formal training in Peking Opera.
Former Beijing Wushu Team member Jet Li demonstrates his mastery of rhythmic pacing and dynamic weapon-work—distinctive qualities of his experience as a professional athlete in contemporary wushu.
In 1990, wushu was inducted as an official medal event in the Asian Games confirming its status as an established
international sport. With the announcement of the 2008 Olympics being awarded to China and the high visibility of wushu in recent popular movies, there is a high probability that wushu will be a demonstration sport
for the 2008 Olympic games.
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