How to Do the Mountain Climbing Stance in Kung Fu

The mountain climbing stance is similar to the generic kung fu front or forward stance at first glance, but it is a separate stance with a different purpose. Many styles designate the mountain climbing stance as a woman's stance because it helps the fighter gain maximum stability and power from the legs.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Start in a neutral position, such as a casual stance or even a horse stance. The mountain climbing stance is frequently used in conjunction with an uppercut delivered by the dominant, or power, hand.

2. Step out with your dominant leg. This stance develops a slightly lowered and wide, strong base, so your feet should end approximately 2 shoulder widths apart.

3. Position your dominant foot so that your toes point approximately 45 degrees inward, or halfway between straight out and perpendicular from the body. This leg is positioned to protect the groin, and the slight inward turn helps facilitate this without compromising the strength of the stance.

4. Distribute weight so that your dominant leg supports a bit more than half (60 percent on the dominant leg, 40 percent on the other). Bend at the knees to maintain balance and strength. Your head should be several inches lower than when standing normally.

5. Keeping your spine straight, throw a short, dominant-hand uppercut, and move your other hand into a protective position.

Tips & Warnings

• For a right-handed person, right is the power, or dominant, side.
• Although frequently designated as a woman's stance because of its positioning the legs to generate maximum punching power, the mountain climbing stance can be used by both men and women.

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