Distinctions between 70/30 and 100/0 Weight Distributions

Distinctions between 70/30 and 100/0 Weight Distributions

The concepts of "full" and "empty" in Tai Chi, as well as the distinctions between 70/30 and 100/0 weight distributions, are fundamental to the practice, particularly in push hands and energy issuance. Both theories have their place depending on the situation and can be used strategically for balance, stability, and power.

Theories Behind "Full and Empty" in Tai Chi:

1. Full and Empty (100/0 Weight Distribution):

   • Full leg is the one that bears all the weight, while the empty leg is free of weight and can move easily.
   • This theory is rooted in the concept of yin and yang, where the full leg is firm and rooted, and the empty leg is light and mobile.
   • Usage:
     • In Tai Chi forms and turning movements, having 100% of the weight on one leg can help maintain stability while the other leg moves freely, allowing for agile changes in direction.
     • This distribution is also useful when you need to pivot smoothly, as your weight is fully concentrated on one leg, and the other is ready to step or adjust position.

2. The Dynamic Nature of Full and Empty

   • Interplay: Full and empty are not static states but rather a dynamic interplay. They constantly shift and adjust based on the practitioner's movement, the opponent's actions, and the overall flow of energy.
   • Yin and Yang: This concept is deeply rooted in Taoist philosophy. The full state represents the yang (active, solid) aspect, while the empty state represents the yin (passive, receptive) aspect. However, in Tai Chi, these aspects are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary.

   Beyond Legs: Full and Empty in the Entire Body

   • Full and Empty Points: While the focus is often on the legs, the concept of full and empty can be applied to other parts of the body as well. For example, the shoulders, elbows, and hands can also be "full" or "empty," influencing the direction of energy flow and the overall posture.

   The Role of Intention

   • Mental Focus: The intention behind the full and empty states is crucial. If you intend to be rooted and powerful, your full leg will feel more grounded. If you intend to be light and agile, your empty leg will feel more mobile.

   Practical Applications:

   • Root: The full leg often serves as the "root" of the practitioner, providing stability and grounding.
   • Leverage: The empty leg can be used as a lever, allowing for greater mobility and leverage in movements.
   • Yielding and Receiving: The empty state can be used to yield to incoming force, absorbing it and redirecting it.

   Additional Considerations:

   • Balance: Maintaining balance is essential. While one leg may be primarily full, the other leg should still have some weight to prevent falling.
   • Timing: The timing of shifting between full and empty states is crucial. It should be done smoothly and seamlessly to avoid disruption in the flow of energy.

   Conclusion

   The concepts of "full" and "empty" in Tai Chi are fundamental to understanding the practice. By mastering these concepts, practitioners can develop a deeper sense of balance, stability, and power, enabling them to move with grace and efficiency.

   • The 70% weight-bearing leg is more grounded, but the other leg still holds some weight (30%), allowing for quicker transitions between movements.
   • This distribution emphasizes balance and flexibility, with a strong, stable base while maintaining a degree of mobility in the other leg.
   • Usage:
     • When issuing energy or defending in push hands, 70/30 distribution allows for dynamic movement and stability. You have a firm foundation (the 70% leg) but retain some weight in the 30% leg to respond to changes in your opponent’s energy.
     • It’s particularly useful in situations where you may need to shift quickly to evade, absorb, or neutralize incoming force while still maintaining a rooted stance.

3. 70/30 Weight Distribution

4. Benefits of the 70/30 Stance:

   • Power Generation: The strong base provided by the 70% leg allows for powerful energy generation and transmission.
   • Balance and Coordination: The 70/30 stance helps develop balance and coordination, essential for Tai Chi practice.
   • Adaptability: The 30% leg allows for quick adjustments and responses to changing situations.
   • Root and Branch Connection: The connection between the root (70% leg) and branch (30% leg) is crucial for maintaining a strong, unified structure.

   Common Applications:

   • Push Hands: The 70/30 stance is often used in push hands to provide a stable base while allowing for flexibility and responsiveness.
   • Forms: Many Tai Chi forms incorporate the 70/30 stance, particularly in movements that require power, balance, or agility.
   • Self-Defense: The 70/30 stance can be used as a foundation for self-defense techniques, providing stability and power while allowing for quick movements.

   Tips for Practicing the 70/30 Stance:

   • Alignment: Ensure proper alignment of your body, with your shoulders relaxed and your hips square.
   • Relaxation: Maintain a relaxed state in your muscles, allowing for natural movement and energy flow.
   • Intention: Focus your intention on the weight distribution and the connection between your root and branch.
   • Practice Regularly: Consistent practice will help you develop a strong understanding and mastery of the 70/30 stance.

Incorporating These Theories into Push Hands:

• 100/0 in Push Hands:

  • When your weight is fully on one leg (100/0), you are deeply rooted, which can help in certain defensive maneuvers where you need to absorb force or evade with ease. For instance, when you need to pivot or make a large step, having the weight fully on one leg provides mobility to shift quickly.
  • However, it can make you vulnerable if your opponent exploits your single-legged weight distribution by applying force before you can shift. Besides, it makes you unable to issue your jing using the whole body. That's what Master Zhao said, "勁透不出來。"

• 70/30 in Push Hands:

  • A 70/30 weight distribution is commonly favored in push hands because it strikes a balance between stability and adaptability. With 70% of the weight in one leg, you are well-rooted to receive or issue energy. The 30% weight on the other leg allows you to pivot, shift, or step with more agility. When you receive incoming energy, you will easily reach the so called 接勁時造成的100%. "100% caused by connecting energy" "The full 100% resulting from intercepting force" 
  • This is often preferred during moments of energy issuance, where you need to transmit force through the 70% leg but still retain the ability to adjust if your partner changes their energy or direction.

Which is Better?

• Defending or Issuing Energy (70/30):
  • In push hands, 70/30 is usually more practical for issuing energy or defending because it offers both a rooted base and mobility. The stability from the 70% weight-bearing leg ensures that you can generate power, while the 30% leg can move to adjust angles, evade, or counter.
• Turning or Shifting (100/0):
  • When it comes to turning or stepping, a 100/0 distribution is often better because it frees one leg to pivot, rotate, or step in a new direction. This allows for more fluid and controlled turns or redirections of incoming force.

Best Approach:

Both distributions have their benefits, and neither is inherently better. In Tai Chi, it is important to transition fluidly between different weight distributions based on the situation. Practitioners may begin with a 70/30 stance for power and stability but shift to a 100/0 stance when they need to turn or reposition quickly.

The key is to develop sensitivity and responsiveness, so you can adjust weight distribution based on the interaction with your partner. Experiment with both methods in your practice, and notice how your stability, mobility, and ability to issue or absorb energy change with different stances.