In Yang-22 the technique that introduces us to the topic of the 5 Bows is Single Whip.

In Single Whip specifically at the conclusion of the technique we learn how to stretch each of the 5 Bows out so that it is optimized for an arrow to load onto them and be instantly released.

Fajing in Yang-22 is not a strong push. Instead, it is like an arrow that penetrates its target so quickly that it barely moves the target back a step.

Is this something unique to Tai Chi? Honestly, I don’t think so. Anyone who understands force generation would know this. Anyone.

The first time I heard about this is from one of my Wing Chun teacher, the late Jim Fung. I forgot the occasion but I think it was probably during an open house.

He had already done a stunning fajing demo earlier using his 1-inch punch. Then as he was mingling with visitors and students he got to talking about the 1-inch power again and this time I got volunteered to try his 1-inch palm strike which he said was more powerful than his 1-inch punch.

I couldn’t agree more after taking a flying trip to the pillar behind me. Despite a phonebook on my chest to absorb the blow I could feel his palm print on my chest 5 minutes later.

That was probably when he said that if he were to really strike a person, that person wouldn’t go flying backwards. If anything, the person would just drop on the spot.

So this was the very first time I heard about how an injurious penetrating strike should be like. Many years later, I had another Wing Chun teacher from an old style who used a fist formation called Arrow Fist that when it struck me felt like a nail had hit me without moving me much.

So if you want to acquire penetrating force, pay attention to the practice of the 5 Bows and the other related topics.