DISCUSSION

Grounding and Redirecting Force:

This technique focuses on absorbing incoming energy and directing it into the ground rather than opposing it with muscular force. The core principle is to maintain a stable, centered structure so that the body functions as a conduit, allowing your structure to feel as solid as the ground to your partner. It requires relaxation and proper weight settling, not leaning or unnecessary muscular tension.

Projection (Thought-Based Action):

This refers to mentally extending energy and intent through the body and beyond the target (e.g., through the fingertips) without introducing muscular tension. The key idea is that the “thought must be correct before the method can work.” It emphasizes creating a continuous structural connection from the ground, through the body, to the point of contact, with the arms functioning as conductors rather than the source of force.

The Chopstick Method (Squeezing Force):

This technique applies force by compressing a target from two sides, similar to chopsticks picking up food. Rather than relying on a simple linear push, it combines inward and upward forces simultaneously, making it more effective and more difficult to counter. It is executed with the hands working in parallel as a single, unified motion.

The Log Roll Technique:

This method deflects incoming diagonal force by coordinating a twisting action through the body and arms, allowing the force to roll off to the side rather than being met head-on. The twisting action is essential; a simple lateral push is ineffective. It emphasizes the intelligent redirection of the opponent’s force rather than direct resistance.

Avoiding Common Mistakes (Leaning, Leaking, and Muscle Use):

Critical errors include leaning/tilting (breaking centered structure and balance), leaking energy (losing force due to improper structure, like lifted shoulders or disconnected arms), and overusing arm muscles. Arms should conduct force generated from the ground and body structure.

SCENARIOS

Grounding (Absorption)

The fundamental principle is to avoid force-on-force confrontation. A horizontal push allows a stronger opponent to drive you backward. Instead, “relax” to establish grounding: when external force is applied, do not resist with muscular tension. Settle your weight so the incoming force is transmitted through a stable, untensed structure into the ground. In this way, the body becomes effectively rooted.

Avoid leaning—once your center moves beyond your base of support, stability is compromised and you become easy to unbalance. The correct response is to relax, absorb, and direct the force downward. This causes the opponent to feel as though they are pushing against the ground itself, rather than your body.

“I’m not going against you… I’m just redirecting the energy to the ground so that you are fighting against the ground.”

When you feel as though you are losing balance, relax further. That sensation often indicates residual resistance—an attempt to oppose the force rather than settling into the ground.

Projecting (via the mind)

This method uses mental intent to produce a physical effect: visualize energy flowing from the ground, through the body, and projecting outward through the fingertips, extending beyond the target. This intent organizes the body structurally, creating strength and continuity without overt muscular tension. The arms function only as conductors, transmitting force from the true engine—the connection between the ground and the core.

With correct intent, the structure remains stable and integrated, even when standing on one leg. Relying on the arm muscles, however, introduces a weak link and breaks the connection. For example, if the arm extends without affecting the partner, it indicates that the structural link to the core and ground has been lost.

The process can be described as “relax into it and maintain the intent.” It is challenging because it runs counter to the instinct to rely on muscular effort and contradicts conventional training habits. However, as demonstrated, it is both effective and consistent with the body’s actual structural state.

EXERCISES

I’ve noticed that some of you may not be clear on the purpose of each exercise. Please feel free to ask at any time. Ultimately, if the goal of an exercise is unclear, it’s unlikely that you are maximizing its effectiveness.

SIDE NOTES

• This week we held class at the Banquet hall because of a schedule conflict with a kids camp because of spring break. Note that the last class will be held at the same Banquet hall just down the hallway.
• I have posted a new video on my YouTube channel. Do check it out.