Tui Shou
The third element of Tui Shou trains you to disregard natural responses and reflexes by constant practice to learn how to detect your opponent’s intention and so that you will make the appropriate conditioned-reflex .
Seven Stars Step | |
Stepping Methods are the missing link between form and function. The Seven Stars Step is the simplest stepping method and the most important. It is taught first because it is the easiest to use, and is the most useful step, but is also the most difficult to master. |
When properly mastered, even in combat, after making physical contact, you will be able to detect emptiness and substantiality within your opponent’s attack.
Four Direction | |
Four Direction Pushing Hands is the basic exercise in which we learn the basic skills of the 5 Step Path. However the exercise does not just end when one can perform the movements of the Four Powers Peng,Ji, Lu, An. |
Once the direction of force from the opponent is worked out you must take decisive action to deal with it appropriately.
Nine Palaces Step | |
Nine Palaces Step is the second stepping method which complements the Seven Stars Step. It is a more sophisticated step and requires greater coordination, hence it is also more dangerous for beginners to use. Sensitivity to changes in direction, better balance and not anticipating are key to this exercise. |
Tui Shou cannot be learnt by oneself, it takes two partners to practice. Many analytical ideas of force and methods ( The Eight Powers - Ba Geng, The Fivestep Path, The Five Movement Strategies - Wu Xing) , are taught during these exercises.
Dalu Step Yin Clockwise | |
Dalu Step is the most sophisticated stepping pattern in Taijiquan. It is also known as the 5 Steps 8 Gates. This pattern is taught last after the other two patterns. It is significantly more difficult and will enhance your mobility significantly when mastered. |
Freestyle practise tests the ability to put those skills into practise
Restricted Step | |
Restricted Step is a transitional exercise to teach rooting and movement in the same exercise. One leg remains rooted while the other can move. It enables applications and counters to be practised in a more dynamic but also controlled situation. |
Moving Step | |
Moving Step requires both strong stances and good mobility. To succeed one must be soft and flexible but also firm and powerful. |
When properly mastered, even in combat, after making physical contact, you will be able to detect emptiness and substantiality within your opponent’s attack.
Once the direction of force from the opponent is worked out you must take decisive action to deal with it appropriately.
