In kung fu and tai chi, we always aim to make our movements balanced, efficient and powerful. A balanced movement is one where the forces involved are balanced throughout the body. At no point is the individual out of balance and vulnerable to counter-attacks. An efficient movement is one which uses only the necessary muscles and doesn’t hold onto unneeded tension anywhere in the body. We all know what a […]
In the Jade Dragon tradition we separate yin training and yang training. Yin training teaches you to develop power inside the body through stillness or very slow movements combined with a focused mind and breath. Yang training teaches you to express that power in the most efficient way. Wave power is one of the most important methods of yang training. Wave training is all about learning how to move in […]
As anyone who comes to my classes will know I talk a lot about leg strength. Basically, without strong legs you have no real support so your upper body will be full of tension to keep your weight off your weak legs. Strengthen your legs and your upper body can then relax down onto them and you will maintain great mobility and power well into your old age. I cannot […]