Page 11 - Robert W. Smith - Pa kua_ Chinese boxing for fitness & self-defense-North Atlantic Books (2003)

(5) To attack a strong antagonist you must cross either his
body or his arm, preferably both. That is, do not attack
ercises learned, you will be able to create your own actions. And it directly, but rather obliquely by "turning his corner" and
is well to dwell on this a moment: a tactic is only that, a tactic. then attacking. To cross his arm(s) means that, as he at-
Principles are far more important, for with these we can invent, tacks, you deflect and in the same movement seize his arm
change, and refine other tactics. (see Figs. 6-9).
First off, let's look at the principles underlying this type of Pa- (6) In pushing, hold your hands together and push slightly
kua. upward, thus destroying your opponent's root and pro-
(1) Because the palm is more powerful and flexible than the pelling him backward.
fist, it is the major weapon used in Pa-kua. (7) The waist is along the major axis of the body. Let it lead
(2) The opponent must be stretched or unbalanced if an at- every action.
tack is to have the desired effect.
(3) Your arms move only as part of your body.
(4) Every action is circular; this imparts speed and power.

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