Standing Practice

                 "To know the riches of the martial arts, begin by standing still" 

     
               Five signs of practice:   

        Form               Mindset                 Power                   Energy                  Spirit      

   
It is best not to add any additional techniques while training Zhan Zhuang as they would only detract from the original practice.   

At first Zhan Zhuang is a physical challenge, then it becomes a mental challenge and finally it shows its true purpose.   
   
Beginner   

Wuji - empty posture
Introduction to standing practice and qigong mode   
   
Intermediate (form)   

Standing post (low/mid posture), The Great Circle
Focus on form and what to be aware of while practicing   
Relax the body (lower back & shoulders) and the mind   
   
Advanced (mindset)   

Standing in the stream, Double Spirals
Relax the shoulders, upper back and lower back   
Familiarize with spiral energy   
Overcome upperbody physical challenge    
   
Senior student (power)   

Deep Power, On Guard
Focus on deep root   
Increasing leg strength by isometrics   
Overcome lower body physical challenge   
Introduction to 70 - 30 stance   
   
Assoc. Instructor (energy)   

The Archer, Rising up
Single leg rooting   
Connect with presence of energy generated by physical stance   
Make use of the generated energy to enhance the form and thus your practice   
   
Instructor (spirit)   

Taming the Tiger, Dragon
Overcome both physical and mental challenges in order to connect to the non-physical