Firebending is one of the four bending elements of the four nations and is an aggressive, offensive fighting force. Firebending is practised by members of the Fire Nation and is comprised of multiple quick explosions of punches and kicks that create bursts of flames. To make up for the lack of defensive moves, a Firebender will instead try to defeat an opponent with a barrage of blows.

True Firebending comes from the breath and not the physical strength or size of a bender. The art was first practised by the Sun Warriors who learned it from the two ancient dragons, Ran and Shaw (the original Firebending masters).

Ancient Martial Arts Influences

Firebending draws from several ancient martial arts styles. Each art has its own moves and produces different results.

Xsing Yi: incorporates strikes from the class “Seven Stars”: hands, feet, elbows, hips, knees, shoulders and head.

Southern Dragon Claw: similar to a dragon swooping down on its prey, this form uses techniques for seizing and holding using the hand.

Northern Shaolin: developed by the Shaolin monks of ancient China, the “long-fist” style emphasizes kicking over hand fighting. Kicks are extended as far as possible without compromising balance.

Techniques

The movement of Firebending is direct and precise. A quick kick or a jab creates bursts of flame that aims forward at an opponent. Whirlwind kicks produce blazing arcs of flame. Punches release fireballs, while spinning kicks generate rings of fire. A snap of the hand or wrist can create a deadly fire-pinwheel.

Strengths

Weaknesses

• Darkness
• A solar eclipse
• A full moon

Firebending Duels

An agni-kai is traditionally fought at sunset. Firebenders begin back-to-back in barefoot. The objective is to overpower your opponent, knock him or her to the ground and burn him or her. Prince Zuko received his scar in a duel against his father after speaking out in a war meeting.