Flexibility

In our curriculum, much attention is paid to the stretching of our tendons, ligaments and muscles. In the Siu Nim Tao form, there is an emphasis on really stretching the limbs out, while holding the shoulder in or during the huen sao (circling hand) motions.  In our system, much time and effort in stressing this importance as the instructor encourages the student to really take the time to almost exagerate the movements - creating a physiological-conditioning purpose for these movements, rather than just practical fighting application or, in some cases, just going through the motions. 

However, little attention is paid to the lower half of the body - the legs and feet. Such conditioning should also be applied. Although there may not be an official form, it would be recommended to spend 10 minutes every other night on applying the same principles and goals to the legs - stretching the legs out, performing slow ankle rotations, and locking the knees.  

The kicking leg can be viewed (depending on the situation) as an extended man sao - making contact with the opponent as he closes in.  You cannot afford to meet his attack with stiff arms, so why meet his attack with stiff legs? 

Don't neglect stretching the legs. You can start with standard stretches that you do in karate class or gym class but spend a good 10-15 minutes stretching your legs WT style. 

Until next time.