The Three Frames

The Three Frames

There are three “frames” we should be aware of in the practice of our technique. We teach the medium frame proportioning of stance in the standard execution of the form. This is in line with the “middle-of-the-road” philosophy of our system. This does not preclude the extremes but acts as a reference point.

The medium frame uses the one foot width and three foot length depth to establish the base we create with our lower body. Bending your knees provides the right height.

The other two are the small and large frames. Small frame means you keep your feet closer than the medium frame. It’s a shorter stance. Small frame might be used if you are older or have a structural limitation, possibly due to injury or it’s just the way you’re built. Maybe even space limitation would dictate practice of the small frame. It can be used as a confidence builder if you’re wobbly and doing this for the first time to improve or rehabilitate yourself. You don’t go any faster in small frame, you just shorten the stances. This is a good drill for all students just to become familiar with how it feels.

Large frame, as you probably guessed, is the extended stance version. This one is good for challenging yourself since it requires more strength and flexibility. It’s harder to do the weight shifts and stepping in large frame. The big challenge is keeping the muscles soft, working to do the form without relying on muscular power for balance. This, as the small frame, is also a good thing for all of us to try so that we are at least familiar with it. I do not recommend this for new students and it should not be done without first being looked at by your teacher. This should prevent injury if you are trying a little too hard. That touches on the discipline aspect of our practice, something that should permeate our efforts.

If you work in the frames and see the philosophy behind these versions you’ll also figure out that you can speed it up. It’s said that tai chi is just slow-motion kung-fu. Not true, for several reasons, but you get the idea.

Until next time,

Lee