Sifu,

I Posted about this on the WNG Forum and wanted to get a clarification from you.

I had learned a standard Fencing "Lunge" which is just pushing off of the Back Foot.
When we were working the Lunge in the seminar, that is what I was doing.

But then I was reading in the Fighting Methods book (which I know might not always be technically accurate) and they describe a 3 inch front foot prep step and a transfer of weight to the front foot as you push off.
Feels a bit more like a "Leap" at that point.
Makes total sense if you add a lead had feint at the onset.

I don't THINK that is what you were intending for us to do but wanted to get your take on it.
I am guessing that is covered on one of your DVD's but also note that you have adjusted a few things in your curriculum since those were made.

Thanks
John

John,

If you are talking about a bil jee lunge (guessing Sifu Lamar was demonstrating at the seminar)then there is no step with the front foot in preparation. You are pushing hard off the rear foot. There are pictures and descriptions here on this website that nail this. http://www.hardcorejkd.com/img/techniques/forward_lunge.jpg

This technique is great for closing the gap and a quick initial move. Hope this helps.

Jim Riggio

Jim,

Yes, that looks correct.
It is just that Sifu Davis was saying we should be able to move at least 3 feet with it.
I'm good for about two feet (which is about what is shown in the photo link you posted).

The Fighting Method was kind of hacked together....lots of good info for sure, but not always clear.

jmp

lunge is it not being telegraphic. If you were to "prep" the foot, either front or back, it lets me know you are up to something and I had either attack or be ready to counter. Even with static motion/movement the lead hand has to move first and if you are already in the correct bai jong you can the lunge forward. If you are not in a correct bai jong you will have to prep and thus telegraph your intent. If you watch fencers closely you will notice that when they do lunge to foil move first and then the body follows. Due to the rules in fencing and the foreward/backward limited movement their feet are turned front to back. We on the other hand have unlimited area to move in and thus have to be prepared to lunge from our bai jong without any prep.

kent

Kent,

Hoping you are well. Yes you are spot on. Mark it is always hand first. I think of someone with a rope around their wrist and being yanked forward. It's part of our normal footwork stuff. I am old so I can't go 3 feet either but it works very well with the hammer principal.

Thanks,

Jim