what makes fung fu so versatile and powerful means of self-defense. As a martial artists I found that the basic techniques are probably the most important for it is the foundation of the art and the others are the frame work that as a whole creates a house.

nothing makes kung fu powerful and versatile... the practicioner makes it this

nothing makes kung fu powerful and versatile... the practicioner makes it this

 

Very true, but I do have an observation. I have studied karate, TKD, and jujitsu for many years. Recently I started training in wushu and have noticed that I am using balance muscles that I haven't used before. In fact at times a little frustrating to move smoothly and feel comfortable. The added factors involved in this art seem to make it quite a bit more applicable in many situations and environments-a big plus!!

 

The first physical lesson in wushu usually are the stances.

 

In CMA, we believe all energy comes from the earth and to be able to use that energy, we must root our leg to the earth, hence the practise of stances.

 

No matter what you do (in wushu), when you move, change step, doing a kick or just standing there, you must root your leg (1 or both) to the ground. The focus on groin, pelvis and small calve muscles is important in rooting down.

I have done rooted stances before but I am used to them being much wider. I agree with being rooted during kicking, etc. , concepts learned early in karate. Thanks for the added insights!

 

In wushu, most moves can be logically explained scientifically, just that traditional master wasn't teach in science...