![\"hanxiongbabei\"](\"https:\/\/thetaichiworkshop.dk\/wp-content\/uploads\/HanXiongBaBei.jpg\")
<\/p>\nA: Yes, the classics in the Li Family manual (and also the other known versions) specifically states\u00a0that we should “hollow the chest and extend the back”, \u00a0and sink low.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Furthermore, all traditional masters of the old styles lean a bit forward in nearly all postures. The oldest pictures we have are of Yang Chengfu, but all other early pictures show the same inclination of the body. The longer steps, the more the body lean.<\/p>\n
![\"chengfu-form-09\"](\"https:\/\/thetaichiworkshop.dk\/wp-content\/uploads\/Chengfu-form-09.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
There is a famous comment on posture in the original classic from 1590:<\/p>\n
POEM ON THE PRACTICE OF THE THIRTEEN MOVEMENTS<\/p>\n
The set of the thirteen movements should not be taken lightly
\nThe fountain from where its purpose well, is in the waist.
\nCarefully pay attention to the shifts and turns of empty and full,
\nQi must be in the entire body without the slightest deficiency.
\nIn stillness on your own moving like you were still,
\nbut the opponent shifts and vary so this is a marvel.
\nEach and every move has design and purpose,
\nbut it will not come without consciously spending time and effort.
\nIn every moment keep your mind on the waist,
\nBe relaxed and quiet in the abdomen, then the qi will rise.
\nHold the lower regions centred and straight, then the spirit passes
\nthrough to the top of the head.
\nThe whole body light and sharp, HOLDING THE HEAD AS SUSPENDED FROM ABOVE.
\nGive full awareness to that which you want to learn.
\nBend, extend, open and close should be natural.
\nGo through the gate and seek guidance, the teaching must be word of
\nmouth. Exert yourself ceaselessly and study the method on your own.
\nIf you ask what the principle for the body is,
\nthe intention and qi is the ruler, bones and flesh are the subjects.
\nIf wondering about the final purpose, it is to prolong life and stay youthful.
\nThis is my poem of one hundred and forty characters,
\nword by word clear and distinct, nothing omitted.
\nIf proceeding without heeding these words you will waste your effort and
\nhave cause for sighing.<\/p>\n
The second spring moon of the Geng Yin year (1590) in the reign of<\/em> Translation Lars Bo Christensen<\/p>\n
\nGreat Ming Dynasty Emperor Wan Li. Instructional poem on the thirteen<\/em>
\nboxing movements. First time presented in the Great Hall of the<\/em>
\nAncestral Temple. Li Chunmao (Li Yezhen)<\/em><\/p>\n