Bu Fa (Stepping Techniques)

Beside the usual Kung Fu stances like Gong Bu (Bow stance) or Ma Bu (Horse stance), Zhu Sifu taught several stepping techniques distinct to White Crane. Here, I should admit that his Hung Gar background may have influenced his technique, or it may be that there are only a set number of stances that work with open hand fighting. The Hun Gar stances can be found here, and were often seen during our White Crane forms.

• Xing Xing Bu (Gorilla Step) -- This form of stepping is like a Bow stance turned sideways. The feet are set wide like a Horse stance, with the lead foot slightly forward. Both knees are bent, with the lead leg bent more, and the rear leg bent enough to sink the weight down. Weight is almost evenly distributed (55%/45%). The feet are both pointing straight forward, creating a corresponding tension in the hips and knees. Punches are thrown, initiating from the feet and hips, with the torso and shoulders twisting to add power. As the punch ends, the shoulders should be turned completely 90% away from the direction of the opponent for maximum extension. As each punch ends, it chains into the next punch, which correspondingly moves the rear leg forward to become the lead leg, giving the practitioner a slightly lumbering "gorilla-like" look. The stance is designed to be used once a bridge has been established and the opponent is within striking range. The footwork and stance-work is designed to maintain striking contact with the opponent, raining strikes on him, while you either drive through him or shift to flank around him. A deep stance is used to maintain a strong base for strikes, and to resist takedown attempts, while higher stance can be used to maintain distance or establish a neutral distance again.


• Zui Bu (Chasing step) -- This was taught as an advanced footwork, designed to prevent someone from escaping. It was initiated as an open-hand Chuin to initiate the bridge, then as the opponent steps back, you continually step forward and Chuin.
  


• Jumping Crane step -- This was found in certain White Crane forms and designed to be used to close the distance quickly or escape in some direction. The rear leg pushes forward as if taking a half-step forward. Before you finish the step, quickly bring the lead leg (now behind) up and raise the knee (which can also be a kick). The final effect is what looks like a leap towards the opponent.
  


• Leg switching -- This was never given a formal name by Zhu Sifu, but it was a basic footwork drill used to develop balance and agility in the feet. It can also be used as defense against a leg sweep or kick. Simply start with a forward Bow stance. Keeping weight shifting to a minimum, quickly pull the lead foot back to your rear foot, and then put your rear foot to where the lead foot was. This should ideally be done with one single motion, taking care not to shift the weight too much, and not to bounce.