The mantis is paired with the monkey and is a short range system that uses complicated footwork with elbows and finger strikes to hit vital pressure points. The mantis, being an insect, has no higher thoughts and is all instinct and reflex. At close range the system is devastating. The Tang-Lang style which mixes mantis with monkey footwork is reputed to be the only system that defeated the monks of Shaolin.

The mantis makes good use of knees and elbows as well as various parts of the hands, fingers and feet to strike sensitive areas with speed and accuracy. Although not a mobile animal the principles and arm work are adaptable to suit the footwork of the monkey as mentioned above or the circling footwork of bagua which makes for a formidable combination.

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