Martial Applications of Taijiquan
It is difficult, for even those practicing the art of Taijiquan, to see how the movements in the form could possibly have any sort of combat application. Dragon Studios offers a complete course in self-defense with emphasis on the martial applications of the Yang long form.
Martial application is divided into the following disciplines:
Martial Purpose
The martial purpose behind each movement in the form is discussed and demonstrated as the student learns that move. These applications of the movements are later explored in Pushing Hands.
Basic Self Defense Techniques
It is said that a "well-rounded" martial art should teach each of the following martial disciplines:
- Hand techniques (striking/defending)
- Leg techniques (kicking/footwork/linking)
- Joint Locking (grappling/chin na)
- Throwing
Taijiquan teaches us all of these disciplines in the form, and adds a 5th discipline: Fa-Chin (Fa-jing). At Dragon Studios we teach each of the above techniques, both as part of the form and separately in drills.
Pushing Hands
Push Hands (Tui Shou) is the most important training technique for Taijiquan martial application. This discipline is a partnered exercise, where the students connect to each other at the wrists and apply the techniques of Taijiquan to attack and defend. This is a very easy and surprisingly gentle practice, and can be performed by students of any skill level. The Pushing Hands techiques taught are:
- Single-hand push hands (teaches defense, balance and hip placement)
- Two-handed push hands (teaches the martial applications of the form and fa-chin)
- Sticky hands (teaches defense, interception, and strategy)
- Quick-striking (teaches quick reactions and strike/defense with minimal movement)
- Competitive balance (teaches balance)
San Shou
San Shou or free-sparring separates the students, allowing them to spar traditionally, using the techniques they were previously taught. Students who wish to spar will be paired against an instructor, for their own safety, and may only free-spar with another student who is at the senior, disciple, or apprentice level.
San Shou is not required of any student, unless they are seeking combat certification (Black Sash level).
Weapons
The above techniques taught are all empty-hand. Dragon Studios also offers lessons in multiple weapons. Weapons trainings can include (but are not limited to):
- Taiji jian (sword)
- Taiji staff (or spear)
- Knife (any size or style)
- Sai
- Tonfa
- Cane