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A "Kinetic Chain" in Classical Tai Chi
The Kinetic Chain is an engineering concept adapted to describe human movement. It refers to the interrelated parts of the body, such as joints and muscles, and how they work together to perform movement. The concept was initially developed by Franz Reuleaux, a German engineer, in 1875 and later applied to the human musculoskeletal system by Dr. Arthur Steindler in the 1950s.
The kinetic chain theory proposes that movement in one part of the body produces forces transmitted to adjacent parts, creating a domino effect. This idea highlights that movement in one body part can significantly influence other body areas. The kinetic chain can be classified as either closed or open, depending on whether the distal part of the chain is fixed or free to move. During an open kinetic chain exercise, the hand or foot can move.
In Classical Tai Chi, Nei Gong (internal discipline) facilitates an efficient transfer of Nei Jin (internal energy) throughout the body. One might say it is a chain of movement, a "kinematic chain," which refers to a coordinated sequence of movements. This is a process of "segmentation" where different body segments move in a specific order, transferring internal energy efficiently.
- Classical Tai Chi movements emphasize the sequential activation of body segments, starting from a controlled dexterous contraction of the abdomen and moving through the body.
- The kinetic chain enables the transfer of energy from one part of the body to another, resulting in a continuous flow of movement.
- Classical Tai Chi utilizes (the force exerted by the core on the body) and what are "rotational torques" in the core to generate power, which is transferred through the kinetic chain.
- Classical Tai Chi can enhance "proprioception" (awareness of body position) by providing internal motion focusing on the kinetic chain.
Classical Tai Chi involves a complex interplay of kinetic chain and segmented movement, essential components of its practice. The kinetic chain refers to the coordinated movement of the body's segments, where each part sequentially influences the others. This concept in Tai Chi is often described as a "silk reeling force," where movement originates from the core and is transmitted through the body, resulting in continuous and fluid motion.
In Classical Tai Chi, the kinetic chain is not monotonous but is based on the theory of Yin and Yang, where movements are balanced and complementary. For instance, core movements induce foot movements, creating a dynamic relationship between the upper and lower body. This interconnectedness ensures that each limb moves in conjunction with different timing, leading to the principle of "lower and upper body following each other."
Segmented movement in Classical Tai Chi involves the precise control and coordination of different body segments. This is evident in how practitioners perform movements requiring the body to shift weight and maintain balance, often involving single-leg support and transitions between different weight-bearing patterns. The biomechanical analysis of Classical Tai Chi movements has shown that these practices involve significant joint angles, moments, and muscle activity, particularly in the lower limbs. This emphasis on significant joint angles and muscle activity is stringently learned in the Classical Tai Chi Square Form.
The principles of a relaxed body further support the kinetic chain and segmented movement in Classical Tai Chi. The body must be relaxed to generate internal power from the core and express that power with the extremities. This approach enhances physical health and promotes mental well-being and balance.
Master Stephen Hwa and Classical Tai Chi
Master Stephen Hwa is a prominent figure in Classical Tai Chi, which he learned from Grandmaster Wabu Young, who in turn learned from Great Grandmaster Wu Chien Chuan, considered the founder of Wu's Style of Tai Chi. What Master Stephen Hwa learned emphasized the concept of "Internal Discipline," which, in kinesiology terms, utilizes a "kinetic chain" in his teachings.
The kinetic chain refers to the sequence of body segments, aka "segmentation," that work together to move. Master Hwa's approach to classical tai chi is deeply rooted in this principle. According to Stephen Hwa, the power in Classical Tai Chi movements originates from the body's internal core—the abdomen and back—not from external parts such as arms and shoulders. This internal movement is essential for reaping the full benefits of Classical Tai Chi, including its martial arts applications and health benefits.
Stephen Hwa's teachings emphasize the importance of utilizing internal movements and internal power to guide and enhance external movements in Tai Chi. His book, "Uncovering the Treasure: Classical Tai Chi's Path to Internal Energy and Health," provides a detailed methodology and training routine to achieve this goal.
To reiterate, Hwa's approach to Classical Tai Chi is based upon the teachings of Grand Master Young Wabu, a student of the legendary master Wu Chien Chuan. The kinetic chain is a fundamental aspect of Classical Tai Chi, emphasizing the integration of internal discipline with movements of the extremities.
The kinetic chain is utilized in various clinical conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders, sports medicine, neurorehabilitation, prosthetics, and Introduction to Orthotics.
Classical Tai Chi teachings, as they include the concept of the kinetic chain in their context, emphasize the importance of using the kinetic chain to achieve the full benefits of Classical Tai Chi.