Principle of Equal Length of Jing

 

Principle of Equal Length of Jing 

Theories of Jing Transmission and 勁的等長原理 (Principle of Equal Length of Jing)

 

In Taijiquan, the concept of jing (劲) or internal energy plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of push hands practice. The theories discussed explore the different ways jing can be transmitted through various body parts, and how understanding these principles can enhance your martial arts practice.

 

 Jing Transmission Theories

1. Pushing with the Elbow:

     Theory: When you push your partner with your elbow, the jing stops at his elbow.

     Explanation: The elbow is a pivotal point in the body, and when you transmit jing through it, the energy tends to focus and stop at that point, creating a localized impact. This can disrupt the opponent's balance or neutralize their force.

Disadvantages:

1. Limited Impact: The energy stops at the elbow, which means it might not be sufficient to affect your opponent's center of gravity or overall stability.
2. Reduced Uprooting Potential: Since the energy does not reach the opponent's lower body or root, it is less likely to uproot them effectively.

 

2. Pushing with the Shoulder:

     Theory: When you push with your shoulder, the jing stops at the shoulder.

     Explanation: The shoulder is another significant joint that can absorb and transmit force. Pushing with the shoulder directs the energy to your opponent's shoulder, potentially affecting their upper body stability and control.

Pushing with Jing Stopping at the Shoulder

Characteristics of Shoulder Push:

1. Mid-Level Impact: The shoulder is between the elbow and the heel in terms of body alignment and force transmission. Pushing with the shoulder can provide a significant amount of force and control but may not reach as deeply as pushing from the heel.
2. Upper Body Dominance: Using the shoulder engages the upper body more extensively. This can be advantageous in certain situations where upper body strength and control are needed.
3. Stability and Force: The shoulder can generate substantial force due to its connection to the torso and core muscles, making it a powerful point of contact in close-range encounters.

Advantages:

1. Increased Force: Compared to the elbow, the shoulder can deliver more force due to the involvement of larger muscle groups and the body's core.
2. Enhanced Control: The shoulder provides a good balance of control and power, making it effective for disrupting the opponent's upper body and potentially their center of gravity.
3. Close-Range Effectiveness: It is particularly useful in close-range situations where quick and powerful engagements are required.

Disadvantages:

1. Limited Depth: While more forceful than the elbow, the energy may still not penetrate as deeply as when using the heel. This limits its effectiveness in uprooting the opponent fully.
2. Stability Concerns: Using the shoulder improperly can lead to a loss of balance if not supported by proper body mechanics and alignment.

 

3. Issuing Energy from the Heel:

     Theory: When you issue energy from your heel, your jing can reach your partner's heel, and then he will be uprooted.

     Explanation: The heel is connected to the ground and serves as a powerful base for generating force. By rooting and issuing energy from your heel, you can transmit a continuous and grounded force through your entire body, reaching your partner's heel. This holistic approach can uproot your opponent by disturbing their entire body's alignment and balance.

 

 勁的等長原理 (Principle of Equal Length of Jing)

Explanation: 勁的等長原理 suggests that the length or extent of jing should be equal throughout the body. This means that the force generated and transmitted should be consistent and connected from the point of origin to the point of contact.

 Application: In push hands, this principle ensures that energy flows smoothly and efficiently through your body, maintaining structural integrity and maximizing the effectiveness of your movements. By adhering to this principle, you avoid localized disruptions and ensure a cohesive force transmission.

 

 Practical Applications and Drills

 

 Drill 1: Elbow Push

1. Preparation: Stand with feet shoulderwidth apart, knees slightly        bent, and arms relaxed.

2. Partner Practice: With a partner, practice pushing with your                elbow. Focus on directing the energy to their elbow.

3. Feedback: Ensure your partner feels the localized impact at their       elbow. Adjust your alignment and technique based on their                 feedback.

 

 Drill 2: Shoulder Push

1. Preparation: Stand with feet shoulderwidth apart, knees slightly        bent, and arms relaxed.

2. Partner Practice: Engage in push hands with a focus on pushing        with your shoulder. Direct your energy to your partner's shoulder.

3. Feedback: Observe how the force affects your partner's upper            body stability. Make adjustments to improve your technique.

 

 Drill 3: Heel Issuing

1. Preparation: Stand in a stable stance, feeling rooted through your heels.

2. Partner Practice: Practice issuing energy from your heel while pushing your partner. Focus on transmitting the force from your heel through your body to your partner's heel.

3. Feedback: Check if your partner feels the grounded force and experiences an uprooting effect. Refine your technique for better energy transmission.

 

 Integrating the Principle of Equal Length of Jing

 

 Drill 4: FullBody Jing Transmission

1. Preparation: Stand with feet shoulderwidth apart, knees slightly bent, and arms relaxed.

2. Slow Movements: Perform slow, deliberate movements focusing on maintaining a consistent flow of energy from your feet to your hands.

3. Partner Practice: Engage in push hands, concentrating on keeping your jing equal and connected throughout your body.

4. Feedback: Ensure your partner feels a smooth and cohesive force. Adjust your alignment and energy flow as needed.

 

Conclusion

Understanding the theories of jing transmission and the Principle of Equal Length of Jing can significantly enhance your push hands practice. By focusing on how energy is transmitted through different body parts and maintaining a consistent flow of jing, you can improve your stability, control, and effectiveness in martial arts. Practical drills and partner feedback are essential for refining these skills and integrating them into your practice.