13式 An 按

 13式  An 按

In some traditions, when you press or push, the idea is to keep your arm aligned so that the whole body moves as one unit, minimizing isolated arm strength. In the 13 forms, if the elbow drops first and then rises, it may be a stylistic choice to generate a wave-like power or to use a different kind of energy release. Each approach aims to channel whole-body power, but the slight variations reflect differing interpretations of structure and flow.

Often, when you drop the elbow or sink slightly, it’s about absorbing or neutralizing incoming force—kind of grounding it into your structure. Once that energy is absorbed or redirected, the rising and pressing forward is the issuing part. So, it’s a cycle of yielding first, then issuing energy—just one of the many ways Tai Chi uses both yin and yang in technique.

When you push, the key is to keep the movement connected to your whole body, rather than just relying on local arm movement. This ensures that the power originates from your center and is smoothly delivered outward.

When the whole body is aligned and the momentum is generated from your center—like from your waist or legs—that momentum carries through. It’s that continuous, whole-body motion that allows your hand to keep moving, rather than relying on isolated arm strength. That’s the kind of momentum we aim for in Tai Chi!

The best angle can vary slightly depending on the style, but generally, your upper arm shouldn’t be glued to your side, nor flared out. Often, people aim for roughly a 90-degree angle between the upper arm and torso, and about a 90- to 120-degree angle between the upper arm and forearm. What matters most is that you feel structurally connected, so the force flows from the ground, through the legs, waist, and out the arm without awkward tension.

 “Pressing like a wave” (按如浪波) means your push should flow like an ocean wave. The power begins from the ground, passes smoothly through your body, and arrives at your hands in one continuous, natural motion. It’s not abrupt; instead, it swells, adheres, and then issues force smoothly, just like a wave rolling in and then breaking.