I learned the 2/4 Dots by learning the 22-form. This is not the easiest way to learn it but there is context. So as difficult as it is to learn this way, it is still the better way to learn it.
However, for those who cannot learn so many things at the same time in one technique we can try to learn the basics of 2/4 Dots by using the simpler way of looking at the 2/4 Dots that I wrote about here.
1) Body upright, both feet parallel, high horse stance (Dot-C)
2) Open up right foot (Dot-C)
3) Shift Dot-C to Dot-R, turn body to right, left foot turn in (right forward stance)
4) Mentally keep Dot-R, lift up left foot, step forward and place left foot down
5) Shift Dot-R to Dot-L, turn body to left, right foot turn in (left forward stance)
6) Mentally keep Dot-L, lift up right foot, step forward and place right foot down
Repeat
When you read (1) to (6) it sounds just like a typical stepping exercise. The challenge is to keep the 2/4 Dots clearly defined in the mind and more importantly, use it to train your body to move in an apparently effortless, yet controlled, non-telegraphic manner.
This is something that only those who train this way will know what the difference is, and how this difference can help you to do pushing hands, which later can translate across to other learning skills.
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Hi Mushin,
thanks for commenting on the 2/4 dots topic. I’m still working on
refining it.
After having practiced it for some time, I’ve got the feeling as if the
body plumb line (身中垂直線) becomes like a “third leg” internally. Do you
mean this kind of feeling?
Now even when being on dot 3 like in the beginning of the form or in
“cross hands”, with this “third leg” feeling I can move one foot
sideways or to the front or back.
But I still have to work on even smoother movement.
Would you agree that the feeling might be like stepping around the plumb
line making the stepping very light and agile and that in this way the
actual location of the weight doesn’t really matter so much?
I heard the story that Wang Yongquan used every opportunity to move
between 2/4 dots, e.g. while explaining something to his students. I
don’t know if this is true, but it seems to be that he placed much
emphasis on this topic.
Best regards
Gunnar
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Thanks for the comment Gunnar. Yes, you got it right. Take a look at ballet dancers (https://youtu.be/0GsajWIF3ws?si=jQ6FuZND-Tkkerm9) – they have good control of the plumb line.
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