ADVANCED
EXERCISE #5
Exercise #5 is done in the traditional “horse riding” stance found in all Northern and internal styles of Chinese martial arts. Assume the “horse riding” stance by standing with your feet parallel and two shoulder widths apart.
1. This exercise is just like the #5 basic exercise, with the exception of a lower posture is used in the advanced exercise. Only after the practitioner has developed proficiency in the basic version should he or she attempt the advanced practice. In the advanced practice, the pattern of movement is the same as in the basic/beginner’s level except that the entire “horse riding” stance is held lower so that the hips are at knee level and the ruler is moved across from one knee to the other.
2. In the advanced practice of this exercise, gradually increase the duration of your exhalation from five seconds to fifteen seconds or more. Again, it is imperative that you remain fully relaxed as you do this exercise. This level of practice is achieved through regular training over a long period of time. There is no shortcut in developing proficiency in this exercise-even for the most limber-for this exercise is performed with internal energy.