Yuan Shimao

Yuan Shimao (Daoist name: Shimao) was born on February 13, 1971, in Yangxin County, Hubei Province. He is a 15th generation inheritor of the Wudang Sanfeng Sect and currently serves as Director of the Wudang Traditional Martial Arts Academy.

Driven by childhood dreams of martial arts, Yuan began training at age 6 under local masters. In 1990, he formally became a disciple of Master Zhong Yunlong, the 14th generation head disciple of the Sanfeng Sect. After rigorous testing, he was initiated into the Wudang Taoist tradition in 1993 and given the Daoist name "Shimao."

In 2004, Yuan established the Wudang Traditional Martial Arts Academy, fulfilling his vision of spreading Wudang martial arts globally. The academy has since grown to 8,000 square meters, with students from over 24 countries. In 2009, he pioneered a 5-year international training program, the first of its kind in China.

Yuan's dedication has earned him numerous accolades: World Traditional Martial Arts Champion (2008), Provincial Intangible Heritage Inheritor (2022), and recognition as a key figure in globalizing Wudang martial arts. His academy has established 50+ branch locations worldwide.