The heel kick vs the toe kick in Tai Chi has been causing me some problems. At first I thought it was both kicks. When I addressed this with Sifu Dennis I quickly felt the difference going from one to the next. The toe kick actually feels pretty good. It turns out the heel kick and hands/arms are the concern.
Part of the issue lies in understanding the mechanics and technique required for the heel kick and how to achieve a natural expansion from a mostly stationary position. The mechanics of both kicks are very similar and yet different. I find though with the heel kick, expansion is harder to achieve and my hands are trying to compensate throwing off timing and flow.
I believe I’m also focusing overly much on the end result when it comes to my hands, which leads me to question the process of my intent leading up to the final hand position. Definitely something to continue exploring in all my forms.
Sifu Dennis had me remove the kick and focus on just my upper body. As I did that I immediately became aware of my elbows. It turns out they were a missing part of the equation. And guess what? Awareness and more focus on the elbows allowed the hands to naturally move into place.
I'm excited to be reacquainted with my elbows, now I need to figure out the heel kick.
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