The Bridge

Recently Sifu Maury talked about an approach to combat in Chinese martial arts that is dramatically different from other systems. It is a whole new concept to me and completely fascinating. The traditional basic combination is
a)Block
b)Counter.

The Chinese system introduces another aspect:
a)Block
b)Bridge
c)Counter.

The block is not a directly opposing force, it guides the opponents movement as opposed to trying to stop it. This point of contact is called the bridge and you can either control it or be controlled by it. An analogy is that a toll needs to be paid on the bridge and you can collect or pay the toll. Collecting the toll means you are in control of the moment that the block makes contact and can direct the opponents energy into the direction you want it to go. At this split second you make a decision of how to react based upon the energy you feel in the attack. You can, for example encourage the attack to continue in the same direction and use that energy to increase the impact of your own attack such as a 'tiger plays with the ball' movement. The point of contact needs a split second decision which relies entirely on instinctive reaction, there is no time for any cerebral intervention. This can only be achieved through repetition and time as discussed in the previous blog entry.

Nick
Yellow stripe sash