Shifu Victor Chao enjoys teaching and practicing push hands tai chi, but the methods that he teaches are unlike those taught in most Tai Chi Chuan classes. The push hands practice is more Spartan and the training requires eating bitter.
What does it mean to push hands?
Push hands practice is a method of developing peng jin in the internal chinese martial arts. Tai Chi, Bagua and Xing Yi training is enhanced through correct push hands instruction by developing the right structure.
For persistent students, there is a big payoff: after a while, peng jin develops that can be used to push through a a push hands opponent, taking their space. Later this force is refined into peng duan jing. Peng duan jing, or short shaking power, is the advanced martial technique taught by Shifu Chao.
Development of this technique requires a lot of work, and normal peng jin is sufficient for many students’ training goals. However, everyone gets some push hands experience in Victor’s classes. To illustrate, one might start with simple exercises that emphasize balance and sensitivity. These exercises lay the groundwork for deeper understanding and mastery of the martial art as they progress through the ranks, culminating in the ability to utilize peng duan jing effectively in sparring and self-defense situations. Each session builds not just physical strength, but also mental acuity, as students learn to read their partner’s intentions and movements, creating a symbiotic environment where both parties grow.
The Obstacle is the Path
Understanding Push Hands Tai Chi Techniques
Shifu Chao believes that many of the old texts about push hands technique have been mistranslated and misunderstood. For instance, many people who practice push hands believe that they should avoid the opponent’s force, not meeting it head-on and always trying to redirect it. This is one of the misunderstandings of the tai chi saying that 4 ounces deflects 1,000 pounds. Chao Shifu teaches that dodging around like this is incorrect because sooner or later a skillful opponent is going to catch you. Additionally, when you move around like this, you are following a cycle that a skillful opponent will quickly figure out. Instead, he teaches a principle that he calls catching, where you “catch” the incoming force directly while slowly letting it coil down to the ground like loading a spring. This method not only conserves energy but also allows for a more effective response. Although you are required to apply a lot of force, it is not coming from the larger muscles and shoulders but instead from the smaller muscles, tendons, and correct alignment with the ground. This shift in focus changes the way practitioners engage with their partners and opponents, leading to a more fluid and adaptable style. An example of this would be during practice, when a partner initiates a strong push; instead of resisting or sidestepping, the student learns to stay relaxed, absorb the force, and redirect it by using the principles of leverage and body mechanics to their advantage. This not only enhances their technique but also deepens their understanding of energy dynamics in martial arts.
In addition to the physical techniques, Shifu Chao emphasizes the mental aspects of push hands practice. Students are encouraged to maintain a calm and focused mind, which directly affects their performance. This mental training includes meditation and visualization techniques that help practitioners cultivate the right mindset for both training and competition. For instance, envisioning oneself successfully executing techniques in a sparring scenario can enhance muscle memory and confidence.
Furthermore, the community aspect of the classes fosters a supportive environment where students learn from each other, share experiences, and grow together. Regular workshops and seminars conducted by Shifu Chao and guest instructors provide additional opportunities for skill development and exposure to various styles and philosophies within tai chi. These events often include practical applications of push hands in real-life situations, reinforcing the importance of adaptability and awareness in martial arts. As students immerse themselves in this holistic approach, they gradually discover that push hands tai chi transcends mere physical practice, becoming a way to develop resilience, patience, and harmony in all aspects of life. Ultimately, this journey through push hands tai chi cultivates not only martial skills but also personal growth and a deeper connection to oneself and others.