|
| Dip Gwut Gung |
 Southern Chow Gar Praying Mantis Kung Fu Dip Gwut Gung Dip gwut gung, meaning rib bone power, is one of the Southern Chow Gar Praying Mantis Kung Fu training skills that is used throughout its forms. This action is performed by the opening and closing of the ribcage, thus stretching the rib bones and the ligaments that join the sternum and spine. The bones of the entire body are very much alive and just like the muscles they can be straightened with certain exercise like 'dip gwut gung' i.e. speciality 'gung lik' training skills. The ribs protect our internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, liver etc and a blow to the ribs or midsection could prove fatal. The ribcage bones are flexible and move with the body with the likes of bending from side to side. Today and previous Chow Gar Praying Mantis masters developed themselves with these specialized training methods, such as the 'saam hay gen' - the three air power drills and dip gwut gung, working on this movement through rigorous drills that build up the muscle tissue and ligaments around the ribs so that the mid section and rib cage can withstand punches (this includes developing the solar plexus by acting on the surrounding muscles.) Since it is reasonable to assume that every punch or kick to our body cannot be prevented, training to absorb punches must also be emphasized. There is a verse that states, 'dip gwut gung, gen tung gen', meaning that the development of shock like power 'gen' comes from the practice of the 'dip gwut gung'. These two forces are combined to produce awesome striking power. For example, in the Southern Chow Gar Praying Mantis Kung Fu system, as you punch forward the ribs will close, its gives protection and added power. As such, 'dip gwut gung' is to be performed with the use of 'Chum' or to sink and correct breathing is paramount during the exercise, the buttocks must be pulled up in order to contain the breath, with the stomach wall tightened so that the belly does not expand. One should also practice lightly at first to avoid much stress that is placed on the ribs which can cause an injury (by injuring an internal organ). But above all that is in an elite and esoteric exercise, but careful supervision is needed so as not to cause an injury. |
|
Website Powered by Subdreamer