Part 1 of 2
Rooting, Torquing, Striking are three powerful actions. Rooting means becoming hard to throw or push by using your legs to increase your connection to the ground. Torquing means forceful pushing or pulling actions overpowering resistance. Striking includes all types of sudden releases of power using any part of the body. All Three of these are improved by understanding the ideas of winding, coiling, and releasing.
Winding refers to way the human body is curved spirally and not straight, and to the curving spiraling path of connection between the feet, center of the body and hands. The human body is full of curves and spirals and lacks truly straight lines or parts. This means when we attempt to unify the different parts of the body and generate whole body power it is a winding course to connect everything.
Coiling means using an inward spiral to gather power. Releasing is when we discharge the coiled force suddenly with either a torquing, projecting movement or a sudden, percussive strike.
After learning how to start using your legs to not only stand with stability but also generate force you can start learning how to increase the amount of force you generate. Learning how to use your legs even more skillfully can help. A good first step is working on improving how your feet contact the ground and learning to grip the ground with your feet. The next step is working with the spirals and twisting or coiling actions of the legs.
“The movement of your body starts in your feet, builds in your legs, is directed by your waist, and delivered by the fingertips.” – Famous saying of Chinese Martial Arts – Especially Tai Chi
“Starts in Your Feet” refers to gripping the ground with your feet, and the various actions of pushing and pressing your feet against the ground resulting in a firm and dynamic contact between your feet and the earth.
“Builds in Your Legs” refers to how the legs work to increase and direct the power inherent in your feet’s contact with the ground.
Stay tuned for part 2 of 2 As we continue to discover the intricate world of Coiling and Releasing, where every movement is a symphony of controlled power. Prepare to harness your inner strength like never before!
