Bak Mei Kung Fu Vancouver

Traditional Chinese kung fu styles are normally classified under internal (yin) or external (yang) styles. They range from internal Taiji forms where yin is used to absorb and redirect attacks in a defensive manner to more external forms such as Hung Gar, where immense yang power is channelled externally to deflect attacks and deliver deadly single blows.

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Bak Mei is a style in between: it is classified both internal and external. Defence and offence moves are combined in most forms. A strong but mobile foundation is essential, thus the horse stance is a unique triangular shape that is both stable and agile. Hand movements are quick, light, and short and is meant to act like a whip which snaps with tension at the fullest extent and where all energy is released at a single point before snapping back. Little physical energy is used. These movements are intended to be able to deliver multiple, successive strikes at increasingly close range in the event the previous strike does not fell the opponent. Attacks are directed at sensitive areas such as ears, eyes, throat, underarms, sides, solar plexus, and groin. Kicks are low and very rarely go above the groin level.

 

Various parts of the body work harmoniously in each movement. Speed and power are harnessed from geng jat ging (驚紮勁) -- the suddenness of motion of instinctive reflexes (such as when one puts a hand on a hot stove). From the foundation in the feet, energy from the base travels up the legs, hips, waist, and arms through a spiralling vortex action (旋轉力) that channels the whole body's power to the point of impact.

 

 

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