Safeguarding Authenticity versus Innovative Development: Methods of Protecting Traditional Chinese Martial Arts
by Fei Chen, Pierrick Porchet, Cuihan Li, Shaojun Lyu
September 2023, Martial Arts Studies
Abstract
This article reflects on the conflict between the two main viewpoints of the protection of Chinese martial arts culture and defines the two protection methods of “Safeguarding Authenticity” and “Innovative Development”. This article aims to enhance the vitality and cultural heritage of traditional Chinese martial arts and discusses the protection and development of traditional Chinese martial arts from the perspective of folklore intangible cultural heritage (ICH) protection. Studies indicate that to continue the development of traditional Chinese martial arts from generation to generation, it must adapt to the laws of current social and cultural development. With the goal of improving the vitality of traditional martial arts culture, on the basis of adhering to the inheritance of the core skills of traditional martial arts, it advocates an innovative development mode that keeps pace with the times. Its fundamental purpose is to enable the sustainable and healthy development of traditional martial arts.
About the Author(s):
Fei Chen Fei Chen is an associate professor of Department of Physical Education of China Jiliang University, and PhD candidate of Beijing Normal University. His research project is Chinese martial arts education and culture.
Pierrick Porchet is a PhD candidate and research associate at the Confucius Institute of the University of Geneva. His research project focuses on the impact of current sport and culture policies on Chinese martial arts practitioners in the People’s Republic of China.
Cuihan Li is a Lecturer in the College of Physical Education and Sports of Beijing Normal University. Her main research interests include Chinese martial arts and folk traditional sports and focus on folk religions and sport culture.
Shaojun Lyu (Corresponding Author) is a professor in the College of Physical Education and Sports of Beijing Normal University. His research project focuses on the research of Chinese martial arts and national traditional sports.
