Got Root! - how to develop it.. (aussies behave :P)

[5thBrother]

form another forum:

What is root and how do you develope it? or what gives root?

yes rooting *giggles up hs sleeve*

okok .. all u aussies behave .. no rude comments! serious research only?

how to develop root.. any methods or exerices u can recommend etc,,,

[David Jamieson]

Iron Bridge chi kung is an excellent place to start. Also known as "Golden" bridge.

Not only for rooting development, but also for Kiu Sau (Bridge arm/hand).

work towards siiting in horse stance (root) with the Kiu sau extended in front of you for 10 minutes.

at first, you will find it difficult to stay in the position for even only a minute, but after time and practice you will achieve the minimum ten minutes.

sit in a horse stance with shins perpindicular and thighs parralel to the floor. not a high horse, but a deep horse with the feet pointing forward (not out, not in) and the legs spread about 1 1/2 - 2 shoulder widths apart.

Keep the back straight, do not lean forward, do not bend at the waist. a straight line from the crown of your head down through to the floor.

Trust me, this is a hard exercise for the novice and there are many who have done martial arts for a long time who still cannot do this one properly.

the bridge arm is the one finger zen hand form with the index pointing straight up. The arms are straight out with a very slight bend at the elbow. the elbows point straight down. The arm are out in front of you, not to the sides.

The thumb of the hand should be bent at the knuckle, and facing forward, not curled into the palm.

When you can consistently do this posture of Iron Bridge for Ten minutes without discomfort, you are on your way to having a solid root in your horse stance (and your other stances) and you are also working your bridge arms right to the torso.

cheers