How to Do the Pu Tui Stance in Kung Fu

The pu tui stance is a low stance that keeps the dominant side in the rear, ready to strike with maximum power--often by springing up from the pu tui. The pu tui, called in some kung fu styles the stretching stance or the low dragon stance, is frequently dropped into from a standing position to avoid high, usually long-range, attacks.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Face the dominant side of your body (for right-handed people, this is the right side) away from the opponent. The shoulder and hip of your nondominant side, which is the lead side in this stance, should point directly at the opponent, and your head should be turned to look over the lead shoulder.

2. Drop your body down as far as possible by bending the dominant-side knee. Your spine will not remain straight for this stance, but your head should not lean forward.

3. Extend the lead leg out as far as possible. The lead foot should stay perpendicular to your body. Some weight may be supported by the lead leg, but not very much (weight distribution should be approximately 90 percent on the dominant leg, 10 percent on the lead). Your dominant leg should be able to support all of your body's weight. This is necessary for many springing and rising techniques.

4. Hold your lead fist forward at an angle roughly parallel to the lead leg. Your dominant hand should be raised over your head for protection, with your elbow extending straight back.

5. Strengthen this stance and practice proper balance for transitioning from the normal lead to a dominant-hand lead. This is done by staying low and transferring your body's weight from one leg to the other. When finished, the dominant side will be the lead. Do this without tipping forward or backward or having to balance yourself by placing a hand on the ground.

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