Stances

Stances
Before we can proceed on to the tai chi solo form, a basic knowledge of the
stances used in Yang tai chi is essential. Without the skilful application of the
correct stances, your tai chi will look and feel clumsy. The smooth interaction of
the upper and lower body is critical for the circulation of chi and the maintenance
of continuity. The self-defence applications would lose much of their effectiveness
without the generation of total body co-ordination to maximise power.
Natural stance
Fig. 16 Place your weight evenly on both
feet, at a distance of one shoulder width,
with the feet parallel. Your knees should
be bent such that they just obscure your
toes when looking down.
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STANCES
Forward stance
Fig. 17 80% of your weight should be on your front foot, with your knee bent
enough to just obscure your toes from view. The width of the stance should be one
shoulder width wide and two of your foot lengths from the heel of your front foot to
the toe of your back foot. Your back foot should be at an angle of 45°, with the knee
directly in line with the toes when you look down.
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STANCES
Back stance
Fig. 18 The back stance is
approximately half a
shoulder width wide, with
60% of your weight on
your back leg and 40% on
your front leg. The back
foot is at an angle of 45°
and your front foot points
directly forwards. The
length of your stance is
approximately half that of
the forward stance.
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STANCES
Toe up stance
Fig. 19 70% of your
weight should be on your
back foot, with your foot
at a 45° angle. Your front
foot points directly
forwards with your foot
raised up and resting on
the heel. The length of
your stance is fractionally
shorter than the back
stance, at approximately
three-quarters of your foot
length.
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STANCES
Cat stance
Fig. 20 80% of your
weight rests on your back
foot, with your foot at a
45° angle. Your front foot
should have its heel
raised, resting on the toes
and pointing directly
forwards. The length and
width of the stance is the
same as the toe up stance.
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STANCES
Snake creeps down stance
Fig. 21 Approximately 90% of your weight rests on your back foot, with the foot
pointing backwards. Your front foot points directly forwards and is slightly bent. This
stance tends to be deeper than the others, but remember to stand only as low as feels
comfortable.
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STANCES
Snake stance
Fig. 22 80% of your weight rests on your back foot, with your foot at a 45° angle.
Your front foot should be turned in as far as it can comfortably go. The leg is straight.
Remember: if you have not exercised for some time, stand in a stance which feels
comfortable and does not exert excessive strain. With consistent practice, you will
find that taking up the stance becomes easier.