Pushing, but not pushing

A simple exercise we did this morning is to experience pushing by not pushing (forward).

Two students stand face-to-face. One (A) is to push, the other (B) is simply standing there to block the push. If A pushes from his shoulder, or uses arm strength, A is top heavy. When B suddenly moves away from A, A will fall forward. On the other hand, if A pushes his rear feet down, this sends the expanding energy to his hand. A is not pushing “forward,” but B feels the pushing from A. When B moves away suddenly, A will stay centered. (Photo of Marvin, Gerry, and Peter) The implication of this exercise is to experiencing “peng”. Even though “peng” cannot be defined, we still need a point to get started. This exercise also let you to experience the connection of upper (mainly arm) and lower (mainly foot) when your shoulder is down. Top Photos: transition position of “11. Wade Forward in Twist Steps (Qian Tang Ao Bu)” Bottom Photos: transition position from “12. The Fist of Covering Hand” to “13. Buddha’s Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar”