The eight mother palms each develop a different method of moving and a different understanding of how baguazhang works. All the footwork and techniques are practised when one performs the mother palms. They should always be done carefully and perfectly. Never just 'go through' them for memory, as this develops bad habits.
- 1. First bear change: Rolling over change
- 2. Second bear change: Swimming body change
- 3. Third bear change: Behind the body change
- 4. Fourth bear change: Returning body change
- 5. Fifth bear change: Pressing body change
- 6. Sixth bear change: Crossing hands change
- 7. Seventh bear change: Double separating punch
- 8. Eighth bear change: Shoulder strike