Crane Stance

Practice with caution to avoid injury

The weight is distributed with all weight on the rear leg. The front leg should be lifted as high as ability enables with the foot covering the rear knee to guard, but not resting on it. The hand should be in a tightened square-fist state, and positioned at the side of the hip. The elbows should be pointing stright behind the practitioner placing natural tension in the back muscles.

This practice also teaches the practicioner the importance of a strong stable base. Also, it teaches how to maintain functionality in awkward positions. Lowering the center of gravity and sinking the chi are additional benefits.

*Strive to hold the posture for 1 minute, as a beginner level student, gradually increasing time to 30 minutes for advanced practicioners. Once the core understanding of the technique is achieved, it evolves with the practitioner's understanding to include a variety of application.