Mirroring - training both sides
On the other thread Young Mantis mentioned about not to worry to much in making a technique work with both sides and in all situation.
I agreed with Young Mantis. I don't think it is that important to train both side of the same technique (mirroring). Although it is seems like a good idea to do so, it may not be that productive during the form training phase. Besides in mantis traditions in general, the single moves/numerous postures/Jibenquan already provided an oppotunity to work on simple techniques with both sides. BTW, HK 7 stars' 14 roads fits in this category IMHO. Unless a mantis stylist skips the whole Jibenquan training phase, the right hand forward issue really shouldn't be a concern. Besides your right is the opponent's left which means you are attacking with you power side to his weak side. You should have an advantage not a handicap in that case. Most important of all, and I think Young Mantis said it really well, that forms or rather techniques in forms, are about adaptations. If a mantis stylist has to struggle with making a technique work or fit it in, then it would seem to me that he/she needs to polish the technique more. It would also be a good idea to ponder whether the choice of technique(s) was appropriate.
WHF also addressed this issue in his book. So this issue seems to be of note to mantis stylist through out the ages. Personally, I am a lefty. After years of training the right side, I sometime feels more comfortable with my right then my left. Imagine that you are already strong with your right side. You can go further with it. So to me training the right side serves a great purpose.
Mantis108
Re: Mirroring - training both sides
Quote:
Originally posted by mantis108
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Although it is seems like a good idea to do so, it may not be that productive during the form training phase.
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Mantis108
I believe if a PM practicioner could do all of his forms with the same strength, speed, focus, and balance ambidextrously (with both the left and the right sides equally), he would better off than if he could only do it on one side.