八极拳之精髓，源自南京国术馆前教练魏鸿恩先生的传承。它曾被称作“巴子拳”，在巴语中，“巴子”意味着老虎，因此也被称为“虎拳”。据说，清代有位名叫张四成的八极拳高手，他是川人，而从该拳法中的“金刚八势”中的“虎跳”步形来看，它与土家族人的集体舞中领舞者的步伐相似。

关于八极拳的历史和流派，本文将探讨赖兰田等人的角色，他们将这门武术传授给了山东庆云海防庄科村的吴钟，从而使其扩散至河北孟村、罗瞳村等地，并且影响到了日本和美国。此外，该文章还提到李书文作为罗疃派的一员，其弟子刘云樵在日本授徒并教授其他留学生。

八极拳不仅是一种技术，更是一种养生延年益寿的方法。它通过健身与技击相结合，将先天自然之能融入内外修炼，使身体更加坚强协调。该拳法以其独特名称——八极——得名，这是因为它包含了八大招式，每一种都要达到极致。在练习时，需要内存八意（如惊慌、狠毒）、外具 八形（如龙虎熊猴燕犬鹰鹑）以及劲发于 八面（代表各个方向）。

此外，该文章还深入探讨了呼吸控制、动作协调，以及如何通过意念指导气息，以此来活血化力并发挥力量。此外，还涉及到三节分明、三催了解决的问题，以及如何通过站立骑马桩来稳固根基。

总结来说，eight extremity fist, also known as "Ba Zi Quan" or "Tiger Fist", is a martial art that combines physical training with combat techniques. It emphasizes the balance of inner and outer strength, as well as the coordination of breath, movement, and intention. The practice requires a deep understanding of the three segments (upper, middle, lower) and their relationship to each other. By mastering these principles, practitioners can achieve a harmonious integration of body and mind.

The article highlights the importance of proper breathing techniques such as inhaling deeply through the nose while keeping the chest relaxed. This helps to cultivate internal energy (qi) which is believed to flow through specific pathways in the body called meridians.

Furthermore, it discusses how eight extremity fist should be practiced with an emphasis on proper footwork (riding horse), hand technique (using hands for offense), eye focus (leading intention), and head positioning (leaf). Each segment must be understood clearly in order to avoid imbalance in movement or power distribution during practice.

In conclusion, this ancient Chinese martial art offers not only self-defense skills but also promotes overall health and longevity by fostering harmony between physical strength and mental discipline.