The Tai Chi Classics tell us that an old man defeats a gang of youths. But he cannot be using strength. So how does he do it? A young, fit person can tense their muscles and force a result.
An old man cannot. He must rely upon:
- The quality and effect of his touch (jing)
- Whole-body strength (neigong)
- Alignment (qigong and form)
- His capacity to respond appropriately (combat)
- Timing, positioning, rhythm
As you grow old, your external strength will drain away. Whole-body strength does not fade in quite the same way.
With understanding, and the correct application of the tai chi principles, you can hope to maintain a level of fitness and martial competence well into old age.
A tai chi person must behave as though they had the limited strength of an old person, and rely upon the internal rather than the external.
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