Training Guides

Master fundamental techniques and stances through our comprehensive step-by-step training programs.

Ma Bu

Horse Stance

The Horse Stance is a fundamental stance for developing leg strength and stability. The feet are positioned shoulder-width apart, with knees bent as if sitting on an invisible horse. This stance is essential for building powerful legs and maintaining balance.

Key Points

  • Feet shoulder-width apart
  • Knees bent at approximately 90 degrees
  • Back straight and upright
  • Weight evenly distributed
  • Arms relaxed or in various positions

Benefits

  • Develops leg strength
  • Improves balance and stability
  • Builds endurance
  • Foundation for many techniques

Training Tips

  • Start with shallow stance and gradually deepen
  • Hold for 30 seconds to 2 minutes
  • Maintain proper posture throughout
  • Practice daily for best results

Gong Bu

Bow Stance

The Bow Stance is a common stance used for both offense and defense. One leg is bent in front while the other is extended behind, creating a bow-like shape. This stance provides good mobility and power generation.

Key Points

  • Front leg bent at approximately 90 degrees
  • Back leg straight or slightly bent
  • Front foot points forward
  • Back foot at 45-degree angle
  • Weight distributed 60% front, 40% back

Benefits

  • Provides mobility and agility
  • Good for offensive and defensive techniques
  • Allows for quick transitions
  • Develops leg strength asymmetrically

Training Tips

  • Practice transitions between stances
  • Maintain proper alignment
  • Practice on both sides equally
  • Combine with hand techniques

Xu Bu

Empty Stance

The Empty Stance is a transitional stance used for quick movements and changes in direction. Most of the weight is on the back leg while the front leg is lightly touching the ground. This stance allows for rapid evasion and repositioning.

Key Points

  • Most weight on back leg (70-90%)
  • Front leg lightly touches ground
  • Front knee slightly bent
  • Back leg bent for stability
  • Ready for quick movement

Benefits

  • Enables quick evasion
  • Allows rapid direction changes
  • Transitional between stances
  • Develops balance and control

Training Tips

  • Practice quick transitions
  • Maintain balance on back leg
  • Keep front leg relaxed
  • Practice directional changes

Pu Bu

Drop Stance

The Drop Stance is a low stance used to evade attacks and attack the opponent's lower body. One leg is bent deeply while the other is extended, creating a low profile. This stance requires significant flexibility and leg strength.

Key Points

  • One leg bent very deeply (almost sitting)
  • Other leg extended or slightly bent
  • Body lowered significantly
  • Requires good flexibility
  • Weight on bent leg

Benefits

  • Evades high attacks
  • Allows low strikes
  • Develops flexibility
  • Increases leg strength

Training Tips

  • Improve flexibility before practicing
  • Start with shallow depth
  • Gradually deepen the stance
  • Practice stretching regularly

Xie Bu

Rest Stance

The Rest Stance is a seated stance that can be used for defense or to transition to other movements. Both legs are bent with the body in a low, seated position. This stance is useful for maintaining balance while moving laterally.

Key Points

  • Both legs bent
  • Body in low, seated position
  • Weight evenly distributed
  • Feet parallel or at slight angle
  • Ready for lateral movement

Benefits

  • Lateral movement capability
  • Low center of gravity
  • Develops leg strength
  • Useful for defense

Training Tips

  • Practice lateral movement
  • Maintain upright torso
  • Keep weight centered
  • Combine with hand techniques

Explore More

Learn about the legendary masters and martial arts styles that developed these training methods.