Internal Power in Small Circle Video
Ground Force, and merely a means to Internal Energy
In Tai Chi one hears the term “ground force”. This is a term that is associated with "large frame" (large circle) Tai Chi. Keep in mind that Sir Isaac Newton cannot be wrong since this involves an "action" of pushing with the legs/extremities and a "reaction" of the body moving. Keep in mind as well that this is "external energy" AND “Momentum Force” gained from pushing with the extremities. It involves the transfer of energy from pushing movements of the legs as the feet contact the ground. It is a misunderstanding that "ground force provides internal energy"! It merely provides the means of rooting, what is called "Peng", and is not the same as Internal Energy.
Mechanically it is the primary not necessarily sole means to generate internal energy in such large stances. Internal energy in Large Circle Tai Chi, often referred to as "Jin," is a refined and efficient usage of the body's mechanics combined with strategic thinking during engagement. It requires years of study and practice to develop the ability to remain stable and relaxed while generating and controlling internal energy. The integration of whole-body storage and release of Peng requires detailed attention to body mechanics and relaxation.
While the ground path is essential for rooting and Peng in the Large Circle, it is not the sole source of internal energy. Rooting involves allowing force to go deep into the ground and manipulating energy beyond the physical body. Proper Peng uses the ground path and other principles to generate internal energy.
In summary, while ground force plays a role in Large Frame/Large Circle Tai Chi, it does not alone provide the internal energy that is central to the practice. Internal energy in Large Circle Tai Chi is developed through a combination of body mechanics, relaxation, and strategic thinking.
Tai Chi Internal Energy Comparison
The ground force of Tai Chi does not provide internal energy, in the same manner or as well as the core dexterity of Small Circle Classical Tai Chi.
I quote my own teacher Master Stephen Hwa when I say:
"Small Circle Classical Tai Chi, or Tai Ji, utilizes the philosophy of yin and yang in every aspect of its practice, which asserts that every entity needs to coexist and interact with a counterpart of opposite nature to achieve balance and vitality. For every internal movement, a moving part of the body (yang) works against a stationary part (yin) that provides support and power for the move. The junction between yin and yang is always located in the torso. When you perform an internal movement correctly, you will feel the sensations of stretching and intense energy flowing across the junction in an otherwise relaxed body. Classical Tai Chi, or Tai Ji form, teaches students how to use Internal Discipline in every move, allowing internal energy to circulate continuously throughout the body during form practice, tuning, and cultivating internal energy.
The appearance of internal movement is very deceptive. Most uninitiated observers will think it is a small, unremarkable, and simple movement and may opt for a more showy style. Internal movement is demanding to learn, both mentally and physically. But the results of the effort will be unparalleled in improving health and well-being, as well as in martial arts applications and sports performance. The actual health benefits and the foundation for martial arts application of Tai Chi can only be achieved when the practitioner incorporates "Internal Discipline". That is, using internal movements and internal power to direct and empower external movements into Tai Chi practice."
Note: I use the term "plain vanilla" in lieu of saying that large frame/circle is the most common Tai Chi that one sees.
