This video is one in a series demonstrating important Tai Chi Techniques and explaining how they can be directly used to improve basic functional movements like walking. This video will feature Grasp the Sparrow's Tail. I will use the core movement analysis from The Tai Chi Code and The Walking Code to fully explain how the rotational elements of the core are used to execute Grasp the Sparrow's Tail.

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Definitions:

Torsional Rotation:

The upper torso and lower torso on the same side of the body rotate in opposite directions. This uses the rotational muscles in the upper abdomen to rotate the upper torso and the rotational muscles in the lower abdomen to rotate the lower torso and pelvis.

Concordant Rotation: The upper torso and lower torso on opposite sides of the body rotate in opposite directions.

3 Elements of the Core:

The upper torso rotation, lower torso rotation, and hip joint action combine to form the three elements of the core. These three elements move in synchronicity to create the Eight Techniques of Tai Chi.

The Eight Techniques:

1. Ward Off

Concordant rotation of the torso in the direction of the extending hip

2. Rollback

Concordant rotation of the torso in the direction of the flexing hip

3. Push

Torsional rotation of the torso on the side of the extending hip

4. Press

Torsional rotation of the torso on the side of the flexing hip

5. Split

Torsional rotation of the torso on the side opposite the flexing hip

6. Pluck

Torsional rotation of the torso on the side opposite the extending hip

7. Shoulder Strike

Concordant rotation of the torso away from the extending hip

8. Elbow Strike

Concordant rotation of the torso away from the flexing hip

 

Grasp the Sparrow's Tail Techniques in Sequence:

1. End of Repulse Monkey

Push with extension of the left hip

2. Change Weight to the Right Leg

Elbow Strike with flexion of the left hip

3. Collect the Left Leg in Empty Stance

Split with flexion of the left hip

4. Step Out in Shoulder Width Stance

Press with flexion of the left hip

5. Initiate Forward Shift into Ward Off

Pluck with extension of the right hip

6. Complete Ward Off

Ward Off with extension of the right hip

7. Turn the Torso to the Left before Rollback

Shoulder Strike with extension of the right hip

8. Rollback

Rollback with flexion of the left hip

9. Circle the Right Arm Back to Prepare for Press

Split with flexion of the left hip

10. Bring the Right Palm to the Left Wrist

Elbow Strike with flexion of the left hip

11. Press

Press with flexion of the right hip

12. Separate the Arms

Push with extension of the right hip

13. Push Back and Down

Push with extension of the left hip

14. Push Up and Forward

Push with extension of the right hip