Previous training consisted of two-person Bong Lap drills, and then a Dan Chi Sao refresher. Today my life-partner and I focused on turning and pad-work for punching and kicking with Sifu Ray at Lighting Hand Academy located in Portland, Oregon.
“Turning” for my life-partner and I has been difficult. For me I have a decent grasp (so I think) on the technique, but I lack the power to move external force. Today I began progress in turning power. If I assume a right-hand Lan Sao with an external force placed on my right elbow, I should initially turn right using my right “kua” (Tai Chi terminology) until I can no longer turn without breaking my truck structure. “Trunk structure” meaning my hips and shoulder should always move as a unit and I should not twist at my waist. When I reach my limit with my right kua, my left kua should take over and complete the turn. The prerequisite for the turn, is that I am connected to the external forces root (ex: my partner’s foot). I can practice this will a wall or a heavy bag. I am also trying out resistance bands as a means of solo practice.
Pad-work for punching was a good ego boost that I could progress, even though consistency is not at a level of mastery. Pad-work for kicking was new, but still encouraging to move forward.
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