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Shuttleco*ck kicking,Ti Jian Zi, is another traditional popular folk game. Some records date its origin as far back as the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD). This game prevailed during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), when shops specializing in shuttleco*cks business appeared. In the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), formal competition of shuttleco*ck kicking was held. In the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), shuttleco*ck kicking reached its climax in terms of both making technics and the kicking skills.
To make a shuttleco*ck, a piece of cloth wrapped around a coin is needed, and then a punch of feather is inserted through the coin hole, which retards the rising and descending of the shuttleco*ck.
There are endless variations in terms of styles and methods of kicking -- just as long as the shuttleco*ck remains in the air. With one leg fixed on the ground, the shuttleco*ck is kicked by the inner ankle of the other. Some other styles include kicking the shuttleco*ck back and forth between two people. Those who advance to a high level of mastery can perform some truly impressive feats. The challenge of the increasingly difficult levels of shuttleco*ck kicking has made it a popular and timeless game among the Chinese children. This game helps people strengthen their legs and enhance their concentration.
Shuttleco*ck kicking is not only of great fun, but also provides vigorous physical exercise. Besides, it's convenient to play, for only a very small area is needed to kick the shuttleco*ck, and it can be practiced just about anywhere and anytime.
In the 1930s, the sport of shuttleco*ck kicking was in decline for a time. After the establishment of new China, it regained vitality and the first formal National Shuttleco*ck Kicking Competition was held in Guangzhou City in 1956. Since the establishment of the China Shuttleco*ck Kicking Association in 1987, the national shuttleco*ck kicking tournament has been held annually. Shuttleco*ck kicking has gained great favor both at home and abroad.
