馬步 [Ma Bu] Horse Stance
An isometric exercise to develop leg strength, especially the connective tissues of the tendons, ligaments, and fascia. Kicks to the knees are common, therefore must be trained to withstand repeated blows.
If you’re injured, you’re not training.
Duration is the key. Connective tissues are much stronger than muscles. When holding the stance, our muscles tend to give up before the benefits of training the connective tissues are gained. Mental strength is crucial. Yes, practicing the horse stance is a great way to develop discipline.
As portrayed in Kung Fu cinema, it’s often the reason old-school masters would only accept students after they can hold the stance to their criteria. In my opinion, if you can’t hold a horse stance for 1 minute, you’re limited in how hard you can train.
My progression list:
- Attain proper breathing technique
- Attain proper posture, depth & width
- Attain 1 minute duration
- Attain 3 minute duration
- Attain 5 minute duration
- Set Personal Records (PR)
Ultimate goal: TENDONS OF STEEL
P.S. There are many benefits to Ma Bu that will be explored in other posts. I’m currently in the research/writing stage for a future Horse Stance YouTube video.
What are the benefits you see from Horse Stance training? How do you train your horse stance? Comment below and I might use it in the YouTube video.
#kungfu #kungfutraining #stances #stancetraining #horsestance #mabu #馬步
Sifu Thai 