Fundamental Sword Stances in Chinese Martial Arts

There are eight fundamental stances in Shaolin Long Fist Sword. The student should become proficient in every one. Each style of Gongfu has its own characteristic stances, and there are variations. Only Northern Shaolin Long Fist stances will be discussed here. It is important to understand that the basic stances are the foundation of the techniques. If the foundation is not firm, then the techniques cannot be performed properly, for they will be unstable. It is the leg forms that are important in the illustrations; the hand forms can vary for the same stance.

Fundamental Sword Training and Practice
The Horse Stance (Ma Bu). This stance (Figure 3) is the most fundamental and is especially valuable in building up the strength of the knees. To assume this stance, place the feet parallel slightly beyond shoulder width. Bend the knees until a 90-degree angle is formed between the back part of the calf and the thigh, keeping the back straight. It is important to concentrate on directing the power of the legs straight down and not to the side, as if standing on stilts. The knees should not bow out, but should be turned slightly inward. To practice this stance the student should begin by standing straight with both feet together and jump into the horse stance. The beginning student should try to maintain the stance for at least five minutes, but no longer than ten.

The Mountain Climbing Stance or Bow and Arrow Stance (Deng Shan Bu, Gong Jian Bu). This stance is one of the most commonly used offensive stances. About 60 percent of the weight is on the front leg and 40 percent on the rear. The front knee is above the toes and the back leg is straight. The front foot should be turned inward about 15 degrees and the hips should face the direction of the forward leg. Click to learn how Chinese medicine treats Prostatic Hyperplasia.

The Crossed Leg Stance (Zuo Pan Bu). This stance can be used either for attack or defense. To assume this stance first stand in the Horse Stance. Raise the right toe while pivoting on the right heel. At the same time, turn right until the body is facing to the rear. During the turn the left foot pivots and turns on its toe. Bend the knees until the left knee is about one inch off the ground. In this final position the right foot is flat and the left is on its toes. For turning to the left reverse directions and weighting.

Fundamental Sword Training and Practice
The Four-Six Stance (Si Liu Bu). This is one of the most versatile stances in Wushu. (Figure 4). From this stance, the martial artist can switch into various techniques with relative ease. In this stance, 40 percent of the weight is on the front leg, while 60 percent is on the back leg. The knee of the front leg should be turned slightly inward and bent. Never straighten the knee in this stance, because if a kick were to land on the stiffened knee, it could easily break it. The front foot should be at a 15-degree angle inward. In addition, the back knee must be flexed and turned inward toward the groin.

To change into the Four-Six Stance from the Horse Stance, turn the body to either direction so that the back leg holds 60 percent of the total weight and the front has 40 percent of the weight.