Principle 7

Question 1

State Principle 7

Answer 1

Maintain a clear distinction between the full leg and the empty leg, as well as the active Kwa and the passive Kwa.

Question 2

(P7) Is a 70/30 stance rooted?

Answer 2

No, it is a triangulated stance and is a form of double-weighting. It is increasingly stable as you go lower, but that makes it increasingly difficult to use for martial application. It goes against Principle 7.

Question 3

(P7) What are the problems with the 70/30 stance ?

Answer 3

1. It breaches Principle 7.
2. It reduces agility and speed.
3. Moving the foot first limits the length of a Taichi move. This reduces the ability to respond to the opponents direction and distance.

Question 4

(P7) What happens to the Kwa when crossing the centerline?

Answer 4

The Kwa of the weighted leg is raised, allowing for the releasing of the Kwa of the empty leg.

Question 5

(P7) What did Master Ip refer to as, “ Tucking the Hip Joint?”

Answer 5

The action of folding into the inguinal crease as weight is applied to a leg. The Yin Yang balance of the interplay between full and empty kwa is difficult to achieve. It requires a strong connection to the ilio- psoas muscle.

Question 6

(P7) How to Practise Proper Use of the Kwa?

Answer 6

Do NOT hold any weight or energy in the empty Kwa. Practise by picking up the unweighted leg or shaking the empty hip, without moving the weighted leg.