I would appreciate "gentle" critique of my Sun 97 form. Positive and negative to help me to learn. I learned originaly from Sun, Jian Yun double DVD and few years later got Tim's four dvd set and the book. But, I am still a loner in that I am the only one in Central IL doing Sun but want to continue my studying as I love the style greatly. Thanks for input Vic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v01er1TNRmI

Hi Vic,

Your form looks great! The only thing I would add is to just keep practicing.

Best,

Tim

That was impressive, Vic!

Tim, what is the criteria that you grade a person's tai ji form by? Does it change by style?

I imagine it has to do with moving from your center...etc.

My friend has been studying Yang Tai Ji for a few years. Whenever he sees someone do their form he goes, "Eh, the form was ok."

Next time I'm going to ask him what his criteria is because he never likes anyone's form except his teachers and his own.

Timber,
What is the criteria you use when deciding post two or three times in a few minutes rather than using the "edit post" feature?


B2

Vic,
The form looks very good. Be careful when you go from 'strum the loot' to 'lazily tying sleeves' that you don't 'cross' your feet when you step. Try to keep both heels on either side of an invisible line so they don't cross each other... making your structure weaker.

Its hard to tell from the angle of the camera but it looks like your stepping across the line of the back heel when the front foot steps.

Do you have any one who can test your postures? Maybe pause the DVD (and yourself) and have them push similarly to Tim's testing in the DVDs.

Bob#2

The same criteria your mother used when she decided to mske that dirty video to support your tai chi lessons.

I can't edit from my iPhone. I tried.

When I look at TJQ forms, I first look for overall alignment, then for the "quality" of movement, including whole body coordination, rhythm, balance and control.

Like all other physical activities, there are levels of competency, and differing focus of training depending on one's goals for practice.

Thanks for views and the comments and helpful information. Tim:The only thing I would add is to just keep practicing -- I assure you that is my goal. Bob2: footwork info -- I will be looking to assure corrections. Archer, Thanks a bunch for compliment. Tim I look to your later thread post of what you look for and hope that your post to me meant that it appeared that, I am getting the alignment, quality,etc down well but if you see something that would help in corrections - beyond continued practice and study -- I would appreciate that also. All of you have been very gracious in your help and I remain humble enough to realize I am still only in the beginning stage(s) and looking to grow. Thanks again to all. Vic

and thank you Vic for not acknowledging Timber.

My comments hurt you deep down. You need a hug, bob?

Very good.The tigers mouth needs to be opened more,just stretch the thumb and index finger and keep the rest of the hand relaxed. It does make a big difference to the way the body feels in terms of being connected.Its a mistake I constantly make and am always being pulled on it during lessons.

very good form. Congratulations for having the patience and dedication to learning it. My humble suggestions. Drop the shoulders, round the chest, if you dont round the chest, your head will be extended too far forward and you will be off balance. Try to straighten your head, I noticed it was leaning to the right shoulder in the beginning of your form. Your form is well memorized. Dont lean into your movements even slightly.

Once again, very good form, please dont take my critique in a harsh way.

Say Robert I value the input and did not take your comment any other way than positive. I asked for critique and appreciate all of the help that everyone offered I noticed that I had tilted my head the first time I viewed my vid so you were very observant and I thank you and all for everyone's help. Vic

Tony. Good to hear from you after so long of a time. Do you mean the tigers mouth remains with the index finger more straightened as well as the thumb through the whole form (except of course crashing fists etc) It seems that I noticed that Sun Jin yun holds. index/thumb straighter while doing the lady works shuttles but I wasn't ever alerted that is the way to hold the hand(s) I have been practicing as you advised since your post. Vic

Bob2 I haven't really reviewed fully what you said but I think I am trying to watch the foot placement (I hope to take some time next day or two to see if I understand what r saying) I know I have been trying to make follow step not come into instep -- I note Tim says keep toe just in a line with back of lead foot heel but I am having a time doing that with regularity. PRACTICE ...... Thanks

Vic,the way I have been taught is that the index finger leads the movemment.It is kept slightly straighter than the other fingers.This will allow you to have some tension in the tigers moth but also allow you to keep the other three fingers relaxed.

or- if you focus on keeping your elbow heavy (as Tim suggests in the DVDs) you'll get the same result (and more power).

Shane