STANCES

Stance are important for good balance, effective strikes, and quick reaction.

Ready Stance -		The upper body, waist, and knees are straight.  Shoulders are relaxed, the chin is pulled in, eyes looking forward, and the feet are spread one shoulder width apart with the toes pointing straight forward.  this stance is the starting point for all movements
Horse Riding Stance -		The feet are one and a shoulder width apart.  Both knees bent and perpendicular with the ankle.  Push the chest slightly forward.  Have both fists at waist level with wrists facing upward.  The point of balance is between the feet.
Forward Stance -		Point the back foot 30 degree outward.  Bring the front foot two shoulder length forward with the toes pointed straight ahead.  Feet are one shoulder width apart.  The back knee is straight while the front knee leg is slightly bent perpendicular with the ankle.
Back Stance -		The feet are one and a half shoulder length apart.  Point the front foot forward and the back foot 90 degree outward.  Both knees are slightly bent with both fee flat on the floor.  The center of the head, hip, and the heel of the back foot are in alignment.  The body weight is distributed 70% on the back leg and 30% on the front leg.
Tiger Stance -		The feet are 1 shoulder width apart.  Point the front foot forward with its heel above the floor.  The front toes are barely touching the floor.  The back foot is flat on the floor.  Both knees are slightly bent and flexed slightly inward.  The body weight is all on the back leg.  The top of the head, hip, and the heel of the back leg are in alignment.
Walking Stance -		The feet are one step-length apart and pointing forward.  Both knees are locked.  The body weight is distributed with 70% on the front foot and 30% on the back foot.
Fighting Stance -		Place one foot forward and one foot back, about one step-length apart.  The knees are slightly bent with the body positioned sideways to protect its vital points.  This position is in preparation to fight and is used in sparring.
Cross Stance -		In a cross stance, the legs are positioned so as to form an "X".  Place the back foot on the opposite side of the front food, and lift the back heel up from the floor.  The front foot is flat on the floor.  Both knees are slightly bent.  The body weight is resting 90% on the front leg and 10% on the back leg.  This is used as a side attack and defense.