Martial Arts - Beginning Kung Fu : 6 Martial Arts - Kung Fu Stance Drills

July 24, 2007

The power base of kung-fu comes from the stance drills. The stances are the root of the system; these roots must be strong and flexible in order to sustain their power in a hostile environment. The first stance is the horse stance, the feet are usually almost twice shoulder width apart and the knees are positioned 90 degrees (like square box) while the hands are held at the first ribcage area with the chest and back upright and straight (not bent forward). Hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds and then slowly release, repeat this exercise as necessary to strengthen this stance as needed. The second stance is the bow and arrow stance, performed from the horse stance the feet are usually almost twice shoulder width apart and the knees are positioned 90 degrees (like square box) while the hands are held at the first ribcage area with the chest and back upright and straight (not bent forward). Then step out with the right foot only at about 6 inches to a foot in front, turn the hip are to the left while not moving the left leg at all (maintain the 90-degree position in the left leg). Straighten the entire left leg while the left foot maintains 45-degree position. Hands are at the first ribcage area with the chest and back upright and straight (not bent forward). Hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds and then slowly release, repeat this exercise as necessary to strengthen this stance as needed, and then repeat this exercise using the left side. The third stance is the cross stance, performed from the horse stance the feet are usually almost twice shoulder width apart and the knees are positioned 90-degrees (like square box) while the hands are held at the first ribcage. Step into the cross stance by picking up the right leg and stepping laterally crossing over the left leg landing the right foot facing right as the left heel lifts onto the left ball of the foot while your head is looking over your left shoulder. Keep knees from resting or contacting leg area. Hands are at the first ribcage area with the chest and back upright and straight (not bent forward). Hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds and then slowly release, repeat this exercise as necessary to strengthen this stance as needed, and then repeat this exercise using the left side. The third stance is the cat stance, performed from the horse stance, the feet are usually almost twice shoulder width apart and the knees are positioned 90-degrees (like square box) while the hands are held at the first ribcage. Step into the cat stance by shifting (leaning) 90% of your weight onto right leg while lifting your left foot so that only the left toe has contact with the ground. Make sure the right foots is at 45-degree for balance and both knees are bent toward each other protect the groin area while your head is looking over your left shoulder. Back right foot is perpendicular the left front foot, and the hands are at the first ribcage area with the chest and back upright and straight (not bent forward). Hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds and then slowly release, repeat this exercise as necessary to strengthen this stance as needed, and then repeat this exercise using the left side.