Half-Step: Integration of Technique and Power

Half-step is not unique to Xing Yi. It is an integral part of Chen Style Taijiquan Practical Method footwork. It serves to integrate techniques so that power is allowed to come out. Most of the “Single Whip” moves start with the previous move stepping in a half-step manner into it.

Single Whip Applications and Variations

In this brief video, you can see how “Single Whip” is used in many ways. Mainly it is the interaction betwwen the forearm and the thigh on the same side.

Yilu: 36. Turn Over Body and Double Kick (Er Qi Jiao)

After “Punch to the Ground”, you turn to the right and then double kick. This is the transition to the double kick. The first turn to the right is a right elbow strike. In this case, the previous move of “Punch to the ground” actually dodges the opponent’s punch or kick to the head. You [...]

Yilu 18. Step Forward and Double-Handed Push

After “Whirl Arms on Both Sides”, you step forward with right foot (turn to the right) and use both hands to push your opponent out. In this video, the move is done in a more straight forward matter which is more applicable in real situations (it is not possible to engage your opponent on the [...]

Yilu 4: Single Whip

After the right arm goes out to the right with the hand as a hook, the body turns left to drive the right arm to make a strong negative circle (power). In this video, in order to get into position, the master had to compromise his central equilibrium first. Best done without this loss.
[...]