Pao chui
There is a quality in Lao Tzu’s taoism of ‘beginner’s mind’, of raw, naked experience, unencumbered by philosophy or rules.
Taoist martial artists approach the experience of combat with this quality of spontaneity and lack of contrivance.
(Ron Sieh)
Cannon fist
This form is called 'pao chui'.
It is much more demanding than the Yang Cheng Fu form: requiring agile footwork,
excellent body use and the ability to match the form with a partner.
Pao chui means 'explosive fist' and was designed to encourage a more
powerful kind of strike.
The aim is to strike with power, accuracy and control.
It must be a whole-body movement.
And it must also be spontaneous.
Solo & partnered
There are two pao chui training methods: solo and partnered.
The form is just the same, but the practice is different.
Solo training is preparation for the partnered set. It
provides an opportunity to hone your skills.
The partnered from is known as 'the large san sau'.
Cold jing
Going from nothing to a strike - without telegraphing your intentions - is a
difficult skill to master.
It is called 'cold jing'.
In pao chui you must deliver all of your strikes in this manner.
Variety
If your repertoire is limited, then you become predictable and obvious.
You must aim to evade, distract, mislead, create opportunities... and strike
repeatedly and comfortably (as required).
Subtle
Subtlety is the key to the large san sau. Everything is understated and just
enough.
There is a marked absence of flamboyance.
The spirit is one of casual evasion, minimal effort.
Each person just slips aside, maintaining contact and sensitivity throughout.
A larger stance would immediately lead to failure.
Although the large san sau is a vigorous set, the speed is a consequence of
timing and simplicity rather than hurrying.
Treat this as a template for understanding tai chi chuan combat.
Page created 1 August 1994