Stance work of Hung Gar
Hung Gar is probably best known for its powerful stance work. The Hung system was originally practiced on moving boats, so stability was paramount. Also, having originated from Southern China, many of the fights that occurred took place in the crowded alleyways of the many cities, with not much room to move around, making the ability to hold one's ground in a fight essential.
The Ma Bo, or Horse Stance, is considered the foundation for all the stances in the Hung system. Hung Gar pugilists were famed for their ability to stay in the strong Horse Stance for several hours at a time. With the weight of the body equally distributed on both feet, the stance is reminiscent of a rider on a horse, thus the name Horse Stance.
The Gung Bo, or Bow and Arrow Stance, is more commonly known as the "front bow, back arrow" because the front leg is curved like a bow, and the back leg is straight like an arrow. The saying is: In bending, be like a bow. The more it is stretched, the more powerful it becomes.
The Ding Bo, or Toe Stance, resembles the posture of a cat about to leap upon its prey. This is a flexible stance used to execute quick offensive and defensive movements, including kicking. The weight distribution for this stance is 90:10.
Techniques of Hung Gar.
Hung Gar, like all kung fu systems, has a wealth of offensive techniques. Most of these are derived from the Crane and Tiger systems, as well as making extensive use of what is known as bridgework, used to either "bridge the gap" between the pugilist and his opponent or else to destroy the bridges of one's opponent, as well as having other functions.
The Straight Punch of the Hung system is derived from the Crane style, with the wings of the Crane shooting out, and lines up with the shoulders for greater extension.
The Tiger Claws are a very definitive part of the Hung system. Imitating, of course, the claws of the powerful tiger, they can be used to strike, rake, grab, and tear, among other things.
The Crane's Beaks are more long-reaching and precise weapons, and are usually used to peck at vital areas or to parry or hook parts of the body.
One of the common misnomers of the Hung system is that since it is a Southern style, as well as low stances, it has no real kicks. This is a falsehood. Wong Fei-Hung, one of the most famous masters of Hung Gar, was well-known for his "No-Shadow Kick," a kick reputed to be so fast that it did not cast a shadow! |
