Tim,

I recently read your article on whole body power, and I thought you raised some very strong points.

I particularly liked how you evaluate an art by its principles instead of style.

I was wondering, is whole body power the only principle that you consider necessary to be considered an internal style?

What role does sensitivity play? And Strategy?

Blessingz!

Very good questions,

Actually, many martial arts look to develop what they would refer to as "whole body power," so I would classify arts by the way they develop and use their force.

The same can be said for sensitivity, some arts emphasize it more than others.

Strategy will determine the type of techniques used, and therefore will be a great influence on the type of power developed in a style, and is probably the most important defining characteristic that determines individual methods.

The fundamental strategy of application used in the so-called "Internal" arts, and some others not normally classified as "internal" as well, is "Transformation," so these styles are organized around developing the physical attributes (strength, balance, flexibility, sensitivity...) that further the development of Transformational skill.

Who needz S'z n/e wayz?

Tim,

That's very interesting.

This is what I understand you to be saying:

The single defining characteristic that sets "internal" and "external" apart is the manner in which they create and then apply their force.

But the strategy is the defining point that determines how they apply the force and what qualities they would in turn need to develop to apply it correctly (ie: strength, speed, relaxation, sensitivity...)

My next question would then be this:

Can you separate the manner/application of force from the strategy that is behind it in evaluating an internal vs external art?

Also, I am not familiar with the term "transformation" in regards to strategy. Can you clarify or give an example?

Thank you for your willingness to discuss.

omfg...

Transformation as Tim is describing it is about how you react to his force. Do you let it hit you, while you ate stiff, and get knocked over or do you turn your body with his push/strike and let it pass while hitting back(transforming)? Rolling with the pinches, a guy bum rushes you and you do the aikido roll on your back kick throw, etc.

Don't mind Robert. He hasn't taken grammar class yet and can't put his thoughts into coherent words.

Thanks Timber, great job at clearly communicating the concept.

much appreciated, always wanted a good label for that.

You should take a seminar with Tim of you get a chance. I'm not sure where you're from but maybe he does seminars there.

Alas, a seminar isn't possible at this time.

Alas...