More Than A Punch Pt. 2

Taan Sau refers to a Wedging/Uprooting Hand energy, associated with a straight line action, while Fuk Sau refers to a Subduing/Compressing Hand type, associated with an angled line. You can imagine a Taan action like a key unlocking a door, while a Fuk action could be likened to a steam roller compressing asphalt. A simple way to manage the remaining tools outside of the primary concepts is to associate them with one or the other. Any action being attributed or constituted as a straight line action will fall within the category of Taan, while subsequently all angled line actions will be placed within the category of Fuk.One way we discover the fundamental makeup of these concepts manifested in their anatomical capacity is by way of practice and training in the form of Siu Nim Tau/Sil Lim Tao. In this form we are introduced to the vast array of structures that act as physical representations to the concepts contained within the system. The form acts as a list of tools at the trainee’s disposal. The first section in the form is arguably the most integral for a number of reasons, namely the training of the dominant concepts in their fullest range of ambulatory and articulating potential.

Here is an example list to follow the discussed primary concepts in their respective categories along with associated concepts: *Concept names and spellings may vary from lineage to lineage*

Taan –  Laap (Disperse), Bong (Wing/Humerus), Biu (Thrust)
Fuk – Paak (Slap), Jut (Jerking/Dragging), Jaam (Sinking)

This list is conservative. The hope is that by limiting the listed items it may act as a means to incite and inspire a more thorough investigation on the part of the trainee. It should be noted that when the trainee is truly able to comprehend and apply Taan and Fuk, the quality of the punch is not only more precise and accurate, but also capable of imposing the physical experience of  both concepts and their properties as they strike and connect with their training partner/opponent.

In order to successfully achieve this ability, it is required that the trainee be coached by an individual with an exceptional comprehension and a physical prowess when it comes to Ving Tsun as it coordinates and relates to human anatomy. The training program that this coach offers will allow for a novice to make exponential gains, while also providing the intermediate and advanced level trainee an opportunity to push up against their potential to become exceptional themselves.

In the next article we will be discussing one of the most integral concepts within the Ving Tsun system, “Bridging”, and how it relates to the the three distances we focus our attention towards (Self/Space/Opponent).

In the meantime, keep studying and training!

– Sifu Brandon Schlueter-Cat