Form is not slow-motion kata. It is not moving yoga. Taijiquan has internal content.
To gain the internal, it is necessary to address how the movements are performed.
A beginner is taught to move their arms and legs in a particular way.
This lays the groundwork but is more about spatial orientation than anything else.
The student learns which way to face, where to step and what to do with the hands.
There is no internal work occurring at this stage.
To understand form, consider a caterpillar or a snake and how they move.
Every action is generated by an undulating wave that causes every part to shift in the required direction. Form is like this.
Instead of moving the localised limb by itself, the framework twists and the striking tool is spun outward.
The movement of the limb is in harmony with the torso and power is developed.
Physics is important in kung fu.
The body parts must be aligned at all times with strength in mind.
Aesthetics are not the concern in real kung fu; priority is given to alignment and the way in which the body is used.
Each movement within the form offers a whole array of potential strikes and skills.
The emphasis is placed upon the movement itself.
The so-called posture simply serves to shape movement. It is not a static pose.
