Wushu, the collective phrase for the Chinese martial arts, is one of the most prominent traditional sports in China. Many other Asian martial arts (e.g. judo, karate) have originated from it. Apart from its wide variety of fighting techniques, wushu incorporates ancient Chinese philosophical concepts and religious elements. This paper analyses some of the prominent changes that have occurred in the form, content and functions of wushu throughout Chinese history. Wushu's development has been distinctly influenced by changes that took place in Chinese society at large. During several periods in history, China's rulers have used wushu as a political instrument, thereby attributing specific functions to its practice (e.g. safeguarding public order; maintaining and developing physical abilities and fitness; promoting China's unity and prestige; strengthening the dominant ideology).
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