Talking about the 5 fists,one thing that has struck me is how I have met many guys that focus on another style,but have learned the basic hsing-I package(santi,5-fists,footwork,linking forms).Its pretty amazing how this material can blend with many other styles.Just to name a few I have met tai chi,bagua,liu ho pa fa and lama players that also train basic hsing-I.Come to think of it,I don't know any pure hsing-I guys with the animals.But,this is just my exp.Given the chance,I would pick up the animals myself.