What does the term "cotton tearing" mean?

Also, is YiQuan considered an internal, or external martial art?

Thanks in advance.

Best Regards,

Rick Matz

Mr. Matz,
The way the "Cotton Tearing" was explained to me: In the Five Elements, the two hands are moving in opposite directions. This is very easy to see in "Crushing" as one fist moves forward, and the other back to the waist. It is also fairly obvious in "Crossing" although the movements are more circular. This opposition of force is important in creating the power in Hsing I.
Try doing the forms with a towel or rope held between your hands. This might help you see what I am talking about.
For what it's worth.
Josh Ackerman
My .02 says YiQuan is very Internal.

I think Yi Quan is both internal and external....

If someone practices Yi Quan with their muscles tensed... it's external.

If someone practices Yi Quan with relaxed,heavy muscles... it's internal.

It is up to the practicioner.
But it is generally considered as an internal art.

It's when a you get older and fatter and switch from an External art to an Internal art. Your partner Fa Jings you and you "cotton tear" your pants as you fall.

I hope you never have the misfortune of realizing how wrong you are.

SUM . you are basicly saying that Yi Quan . internally and externally as they see fit ? or should it be done and strictly internal ?

sorry for that incoherent post lemme re-phrase that . " you are basicly saying that Yi Quan CAN BE STUDIED internally or externally as you (practicioner) sees fit ? or should it be studied only internally when starting out ? heh sorry for the babbling .

John,

I think the point he was making is people can do whatever they want, but the art is supposed to be practiced internally. If you tense your muscles while practicing you will sacrifice much speed resulting in a loss of power. Relaxation is a characteristic aspect of internal martial arts training.

yawn...........