The Complete Mover: Martial Arts, Movement, and Mobility for a Lifetime – Part 4: Stances and Footwork
The Complete Mover: Martial Arts, Movement, and Mobility for a Lifetime – Part 4: Stances and Footwork In previous installments of this series, we explored the foundations of the Complete Mover concept, the biomechanical principles governing movement, and the neurological processes of motor control and learning. Now, we begin to apply these principles to the practical realm of martial arts, starting with two fundamental elements: stances and footwork. These seemingly basic components form the bedrock of effective martial arts practice, providing the foundation for generating power, maintaining balance, and executing techniques with precision. The Importance of Stances: A stance in martial arts is more than just a way of standing; it’s a dynamic posture that serves several crucial purposes: Balance and Stability: A well-constructed stance provides a stable base of support, allowing you to maintain balance while generating force, absorbing impact, and reacting to an opponent's m...