Clarification of Four Corners Drill

by David A
(England)

Question:

In the Four Corners 2 person drill, (http://www.chinese-swords-guide.com/waist-exercises.html) should step 1 be turning the waist left, and step 3 turning the waist right? Seems the wrong way round if sword is in the right hand?

Answer:

Yes, you are correct. I've written the wrong words on the page. I'll fix that now for future readers.

Question:

Earlier in the same page, I'm not clear on the description of deflections 3 and 4. E.g. What is a "spinning deflection (moulinette parry) anticlockwise"? In the 3rd photo (low tight side) the sword hand seems to be as far _clockwise_ as it will go, so how does one get to this position via an anticlockwise movement?


Thanks!

David.


Answer:

My husband, watching my spins, tells me I also have my clockwise and anticlockwise directions opposite to where they ought to be. As soon as I post this answer, I'll fix it on the site. Thanks for that. On the tight side, deflect a thrust to the right thigh by dropping your sword down, tip towards the ground. The back of your sword hand faces your body with the fingers away from you. The change of sword position is made at the same time as you sink down solidly on your left leg, pivotting your body right on the ball of your right foot. This puts a barrier between your body and the oncoming opponent's sword. Spin your blade in deflection back, up and forward in a circle. Then go into your attacking move with a thrust to the opposite's thigh. The term "moulinette parry" is from European swordsmanship and was added to make the movement clear to people who understand that terminology.