How to Do the Horse Stance in Basic Southern Shaolin Kung Fu

Southern Shaolin kung fu is one of the strongest forms of martial arts and has origins in the Shaolin temple of Southern China. Taking influence from the techniques of yoga and Indian martial arts, this form of kung fu is often considered a way of life, more than a fighting style. The horse stance is a basic training stance that all beginners to Southern Shaolin must learn.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin the horse stance by standing with your feet together and your back tall and straight. Pull your fists into your waist with your elbows tight against your body. Keep your fists in this position throughout the stance.

2. Move your right foot forward in front of your left foot slightly and make a circle as if you were drawing a clockwise circle in the sand with your toe. Turn the circle back out towards the right, landing your foot about 1 1/2 feet further than your original position.

3. Repeat the same move with your left foot, stepping out first slightly to the right and them making a counter-clockwise circle with your toe. When your foot lands to your left, your feet should be spread about 3 feet apart.

4. Bend your knees so that you are in a squatting position. Your feet should be straight ahead of you while your buttocks are held in a neutral position. That is, your spine should be tall and straight with your hips neither pushing forward nor pulling back.

5. Practice the Southern Shaolin kung fu horse stance, holding the pose for as long as possible to build a strong foundation. When passing between belt levels, you may be required to hold the horse stance for as long as an hour at a time.

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