Tag: 螳螂拳
Seal, Binding Throw 掛印捆摔
This is a compound technique with two disticnt phases. A “combo” would be a combination of moves on within the same movement range, say, punching or kicking range, but a compound is a combination of two or more techniques across the spectrum, for example, move from striking to grappling range.
First initiate with Seal, if the opponent fail to defend, it will then be just a hit. Should the opponent deflect the incoming Seal by pushing your arm towards his inside line, you can then cut to and bind the inside of his arm and perform a Binging Throw. Other techniqies can also be used depending on your arm’s position and if the opponent resists your throw. The binding throw is very similar to the Cracking Whip, min. (小摔鞭) in wrestling; the difference being the holding position of the opponent’s arm.
We can learn improvisation by practising compound techniqes as they emphasise on body movement and awareness across the range instead of just trying to strike standing on the same spot.
Basic Grappling: Self-Defence 101
The important thing to take away here is that the techniques aren’t the most significant factor; it is the mentality and the ability to follow and connect that allow the practitioner to perform effectively and efficiently.
Pick-Melon 摘瓜

The technique Zhāi Guā (摘瓜) literally means plucking a melon from the ground, with the melon being the opponent’s head. This is an interesting move not because it is particularly effective, which it is, but for the clever ways of guiding away the opponent’s guard and arriving at the position to with body movement. The trick…
Off-Helmet 霸王摘盔

The Off-Helmet (摘盔) technique is a Plum Blossom close-quarter move that gives multiple options in ending the fight. When you engage your opponent with your right and he tries to parry with his left from inside towards outside, follow his movement with your right, maintain contact with his arm, draw a half circle in the way…
Felling Gate 斬關手
Flying Catch 飛擒手

The Flying Catch (飛擒手) is one of the most simple method to lead from an initial attack and proceed to various grappling moves based on the opponent’s reaction. The Mantis Style typically initiates an attack by threatening the eyes, an Eye Stroke (點睛). If the opponent doesn’t reaction, then they will lose their eyes and match;…