If one reaches the deepest point, arms, legs and body remember what to do, but the mind does not enter into this at all.

(Takuan Soho) 

Grapples

Grapples need to be worked into the attacks. There must be a combination of punches, kicks and grappling.

Build new attacks in slowly.

Counter-attack

Beginners are expected to deal with all manner of attacks.
If you counter the initial attack effectively, it should be difficult for your assailant to attack further or block your counter.

Make sure that you allow for follow-ups and apply the response effectively.
Good positioning will reduce your partners options whilst increasing your own.


Blocks & counters

Beginners are not expected to deal with counter-attacks or blocks from the attacker.

If your partner does choose to be awkward, respond as smoothly as you can, following the flow of the form or drill.
If you want your partner to counter your response and re-attack, ask them openly to do this.

Intermediate students should expect the attacker to counter their counters.


Relax

The key to effective self defence is relaxation: physical, psychological and emotional.
When you are calm and composed, and your body is flexible, you can move easily in response to an attack.
A clear head allows you to see all manner of possibility.


Stepping

If you can step, you can evade and counter successfully.

Yielding to an incoming force and stepping out of the way is important.
Aggressive tactics are not the tai chi way.

Beginners learn an extensive range of skills associated with stepping.


Pre-emptive & withdrawal

Usually it is better to respond as soon as your attacker makes a move.
Waiting for commitment may not be to your advantage.
Should you be overwhelmed, withdraw.

Do not confuse withdraw with stepping backwards.
Do not confuse pre-emptive strikes with aggression - you must remain dreamy and calm.

Pre-emptive responses and skilled withdrawal will offer a variety of responses when faced with varied attack.


Multiple attackers

The ability to step and use the beginners neigong will come into its own here.
Circularity, uniting upper and lower, opening and closing - these are what you need.

Be strategic and rounded, fluid and heavy. Be calm and playful.

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Page created 1 May 1999