Top | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Q5 | Q6 | Q7 | Q8

Q3: Is it OK for the butt to "hang out" or should one strive to "tuck it in"? What is the use of "sinking the hips"?

A3: "Sinking the hips" means dropping the hips or "tucking it in". But it should not compromise the relaxed state of the waist, lower abdomen and butt. It is a better structure for transfer of strength, which can be accomplished more suddenly. When strength is given out, one should get the "support of the floor" immediately.

If the butt sticks out, the back-hips-upperlegs structure acts like a shock absorber, like a simple cushioning spring. Sinking the hips gives you a 'stiffer suspension', makes it easier to exchange energy between bottom and top.

Sticking the butt out may be done momentarily to attain position, but it must "come back in" when issuing or absorbing power.

correct                           incorrect

Notice how the incorrect 'butt-out' posture makes it easy to go to a lower stance.

I asked Mr.Li to roll up his sweater for this one.