Combat Tai Chi Vol. 17: Combat Breathing By Richard Clear

Combat Tai Chi Vol. 17: Combat Breathing by Richard Clear – An In-Depth Review – Digital Download!

Combat Tai Chi Vol. 17: Combat Breathing By Richard Clear

Overview

Combat Tai Chi Vol. 17: Combat Breathing by Richard Clear – An In-Depth Review

In the martial arts world, understanding how breath integrates with technique is crucial for enhancing a practitioner’s performance. “Combat Tai Chi Vol. 17: Combat Breathing” by Richard Clear is more than just a training DVD; it offers an in-depth exploration of how breathing can elevate the effectiveness of martial arts, particularly in Tai Chi Chuan. Spanning 142 minutes, this engaging course provides a deep dive into how innovative breathing methods can be applied in combat, offering martial artists valuable insights to enhance internal power. In this review, we will discuss the core techniques, principles, and how they can be practically applied to martial arts practice.

The Power of Breath in Martial Arts

Breathing plays an essential role in martial arts, not only in maintaining stamina but also in ensuring mental clarity and focus. Richard Clear highlights how proper breathing techniques can unblock the flow of energy, maximizing martial effectiveness. This DVD introduces various breathing methods in the context of combat, making it an invaluable resource for martial artists seeking to refine their skills.

Fajing and Breath Integration

A central focus of “Combat Breathing” is the concept of fajing—releasing power through breath. Richard Clear teaches that breath is not just a tool for sustaining energy but is also crucial for delivering powerful strikes. The course offers specific exercises and drills designed to help practitioners harness their breath, turning it into a force that enhances the impact of their attacks.

The integration of breathing with fajing strengthens the connection between mind and body, ensuring that each strike is not only forceful but also controlled. Practitioners learn to time their exhalations precisely with the moment of impact, optimizing both the force and intent behind their movements. This technique is especially significant in Tai Chi, as it helps martial artists strike with precision and control, making each action more effective.

Tai Chi’s “Secret Sounds” and Their Role in Combat

Another fascinating element presented in the DVD is the role of Tai Chi’s “secret sounds,” particularly the “hen” and “ha” sounds. These sounds are more than simple vocalizations; they are integral to the practice, helping to focus and amplify energy during strikes. By incorporating these sounds with breath, martial artists can create a rhythmic pattern that enhances both control and impact.

Using these sounds in conjunction with breathing techniques engages multiple senses—physical, mental, and auditory—making the training process more holistic and enriching. This multi-sensory approach can enhance the martial artist’s performance, helping them feel more connected to their movements and intentions.

Advanced Techniques and Dim Mak

For practitioners familiar with the basics of Tai Chi, Clear’s DVD introduces advanced techniques such as dim mak, or pressure point striking. These techniques, when combined with breath control, allow martial artists to increase the precision and effectiveness of their strikes. The breath is crucial here, enhancing sensitivity to an opponent’s movements and helping to generate power at critical moments.

The DVD also covers how to neutralize incoming attacks using breath. This strategic use of breath enables practitioners to redirect or deflect an opponent’s energy, effectively turning their own force against them. These practical applications are invaluable for martial artists in real-world combat scenarios, providing essential tools for defense and counterattack.

Whole Body Breathing: A Key Principle

One of the core principles of the DVD is whole body and diaphragmatic breathing. Unlike shallow breathing, which can limit performance, whole body breathing integrates breath into every movement. Richard Clear demonstrates how connecting breath with movement generates greater power and control, making it essential for martial arts performance.

Whole body breathing not only enhances physical performance but also promotes a calm, focused mindset. This combination of physical and mental benefits is critical in martial arts, as staying calm under pressure improves decision-making and overall combat effectiveness.

Training for Energy Focus and Dantien Control

A key area of focus in Tai Chi is the dantien, the body’s energy center, typically located in the lower abdomen. In this DVD, Richard Clear offers guidance on how to train and focus energy in the dantien for better breath control and striking accuracy. Understanding and cultivating this energy center is vital for harnessing internal power.

The exercises provided help practitioners develop a deeper understanding of body mechanics and energy flow, essential elements for achieving higher levels of martial proficiency. Training the dantien enhances both the physical and energetic aspects of Tai Chi, making this DVD a valuable resource for serious students of the art.

Conclusion: A Comprehensive Resource for Martial Artists

In conclusion, “Combat Tai Chi Vol. 17: Combat Breathing” by Richard Clear offers an in-depth look at how breathing can be integrated into martial strategy. Through practical techniques and insightful teachings, martial artists can deepen their understanding of internal power and enhance their combat effectiveness. By emphasizing the connection between breath, movement, and energy focus, Clear provides a holistic approach to martial training that goes beyond traditional practices.

This DVD serves not only as a training tool but as a gateway to exploring the deeper realms of Tai Chi Chuan. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, the techniques presented in this DVD are valuable for anyone looking to elevate their martial arts performance. Mastering breath control can transform your practice, helping you develop greater power, precision, and mindfulness in every movement.