Martial Applications - Duan shou 斷手

Within the solo routines of tai chi, are hidden a plethora of martial techniques. The knowledge and understanding of these techniques is something that has normally only been taught to advanced students who have proven their moral character and trustworthiness to the teacher. But the less dangerous of these techniques are often taught to novices as a means of improving the quality of their movements.

As with most martial arts, the applications of tai chi include techniques for all ranges of combat:

• Ti and Da - punching, kicking and striking with all parts of the body.
• Qinna - joint locks and pressure point manipulation, (including ground techniques).
• Shuai - throws, takedowns, etc.
• Partner practice can also include choreographed routines, free sparring and competitive sanshou.

An 88 movement two-person routine created by students of Yang Chengfu is now widely taught as a way of presenting tai chi strategy, techniques, and methods. This form is practised very slowly at first, and later is done quickly with power and intent.

Other two-person routines, such as the 5-section 2-person routine and the 5-section 2-person sword routine created by Sam Masich, are also widely practised.

Despite the plethora of techniques, tai chi is considered more method based than technique based. That is to say, the techniques themselves are not as important as the fundamental principles that guide their execution.

TO SEE A VIDEO of martial applications of a tai chi, click here.