Winning Elements of Tournament Competition 4: Intention

To get ourselves prepared for the upcoming tournament in Concord, on April 30th. We have started a series of blogs based on the elements of tournament competition, and more importantly, the factors that will help you to get to the top of your game.

I will break it down as two parts, beginning and advanced as the term intention is broad and encompasses many meanings.

The beginning level of intention is simply eye contact. Look where you are striking, this shows awareness of movement and technique. When the eyes wander, the student appears unfocused and distracted. A student that can maintain eye contact properly without faltering shows not only focus, but precision and level of memorization of the form.

The advanced level of intention is seen in body language, the body must work in conjunction as if in real combat to produce an energy about the student. Whether it be in Single Whip or a sei-ping-ma tsop-chui, the shoulders and hips must extend forward, with the stance strong and rooted and energy in both hands.


There is a great story by the late Jane Hallander about Grandmaster's powerful intention during a photoshoot. You can read more about it at http://plumblossom.net/Testimonials/hallander.html


With proper practice, intention will not only help improve your competition, but increase internal power and focus.


Keep your eyes up and get back to work!