Power Generation in Mian Style
Mian Quan is one of the most important and feared styles of wushu taught in the Shanghai area. Renowned for producing exceptional fighters, it's unique principles of force generation are not found in any other style and it defies traditional classification.
The basic principle for force generation in Mian Quan is the use of the spine to create a spiral of torque energy that can then be directed out to the rest of the body like a wave. The stylist initiates all movement at the waist and then directs that force to whichever part of the body he or she wants.
Many other styles also use the stomach and waist to generate power, but in most cases this either relies on compression or torsion of the large abdominal muscles or use of the dan tian to produce internal energy. Mian Quan is very specific about using the spine and not abdominal muscles.
Once force is generated at the spine, it ripples through the body and out into the limbs uninterrupted. It is important to note that Mian Quan does not 'amplify' this force by engaging other muscle groups as it passes through the joints, as in many other styles the common method is to 'amplify' force generated at the waist through use of the chest, shoulder and arm muscles. Indeed, one of the general principles behind most Chinese martial arts is the use of this 'amplification' method to allow a small body to generate massive force.
We asked Master Chen Yong Kang, a practitioner of Mian Quan from Shanghai, about the benefits of moving in this way. First of all, he explained that in fighting, an experienced boxer may watch for tell-tale movements of the shoulder or hip to predict your attacks. By avoiding use of these muscles, your intentions are not 'telegraphed' to your opponent.
But most importantly, this method means that you can deliver equal force to any part of your body and in any direction. Because nothing is added or taken away from the force once it is sent out from the spine, a strike with your shoulder carries the same impact as a punch. Master Chen was quick to note that the lack of 'amplification' does not result in a lack of raw power. As well as frequent and sobering demonstrations of his punching power on members of the Wushu Scholar team, an independent physical research centre verified Chen's punching weight at over 450lbs during a recent testing session in Shanghai.
In order to convey energy effectively in this way, each joint needs to be relaxed, stretched and over time strengthened. This forms the core of Mian Quan foundation training. There are no patterns in the traditional sense, just short sets of repeated movements that are designed to stretch and work the joints to the maximum, with an emphasis on twisting and throwing movements. Body conditioning is also achieved through routines that, for example, toughen the stomach through breathing methods and self-inflicted elbow strikes. Mian Quan doesn't use external tools as conditioning aids and does not teach weapon routines. It is solely focused on cultivating the physical condition required to generate and absorb force.
Mian Quan is an extremely close range style that relies on use of the elbow, shoulder and hip as much as the fist or foot. Key to the fighting strategy is the ability to get close, fast. Footwork is extremely important.
The style uses different variations on the Horse Stance, but in all cases the stylist must keep the angle around the thighs and groin and the height of the stance unchanged. This allows for smooth fast movement and changes of direction while keeping the stance very solid. The stance is rooted by drawing up the instep and gripping the ground with heel and toes. The toes face out and the knees are slightly akimbo to achieve the desired angle. The stance is locked by pushing knees out and tucking the hip under at the same time. Master Chen told us how he used to practice with the Chinese national wrestling team, letting them attempt to throw him in order to test his stance and footwork.
From day one, students are taught fighting skills and are encouraged to take a practical approach. Not surprisingly Mian Quan stylists have a fearsome reputation as fighters in mainland China, regularly meeting challenges from both Chinese and foreign stylists. When they reach old age, Master Chen says, they can look forward to the extra benefits of flexibility and strength in their joints while their peers suffer from stiff and aching joints.
