Title: Learn Bak Mei Kung Fu (Cross Fist) Movement 2: Double Phoenix, Step-by-Step Guide
Meta Description: Master Bak Mei Kung Fu's (Cross Fist) second movement with Sifu Kwok's detailed guide. Learn the Double Phoenix Facing the Sun sequence, footwork, strikes, and applications. Perfect your traditional Kung Fu skills.
Welcome, fellow Kung Fu practitioners! Sifu Kwok here, continuing our journey into the practical vessel of Bak Mei Kung Fu (白眉拳), also known as Cross Fist (十字拳). Today, we delve deeply into the second movement of the form, building upon the foundations laid earlier. This sequence integrates powerful strikes, precise footwork, and the signature Bak Mei energy. Let’s break down this essential Bak Mei Kung Fu movement step-by-step.
Understanding the Core: "Double Phoenix Facing the Sun" (双凤朝阳 - Shuāng Fèng Zhāo Yáng)
The second movement often begins with the iconic "Double Phoenix Facing the Sun" . This isn't just a poetic name; it embodies the movement's spirit – expansive, dynamic, and ready to engage from multiple angles. It sets the stage for the fluid yet powerful actions that follow in this Bak Mei section.
Executing Movement 2: A Detailed Breakdown
Let’s dissect the sequence Sifu Kwok described, transforming the energetic flow into clear, learnable steps for your Bak Mei Kung Fu practice:Commencement (Double Phoenix Facing the Sun): Start from your Bak Mei ready posture. Settle your weight, focus your intent (Yi).
Left Step & Strike: Step diagonally forward-left at approximately 40 degrees with your left foot . Simultaneously, execute a swift downward "Chop Hand" (砍手 - Kǎn Shǒu) motion with one hand, immediately flowing into a sharp forward Punch (撞拳 - Zhuàng Quán) with the other. This combination blocks and strikes in one fluid Bak Mei motion.
Advance & Sweep: Continue the flow. Move your right foot forward aggressively. As you plant it, perform a low sweeping or cutting motion (割下来 - Gē Xià Lái) with your right leg/foot, disrupting the opponent's base. Simultaneously, thrust your left palm powerfully forward (左手撑出去 - Zuǒ Shǒu Chēng Chū Qù) – a classic Bak Mei long-range strike.
Half-Step & Backfist: Now, take a quick half-step forward with your right foot (上右边半步 - Shàng Yòu Biān Bàn Bù). As you shift your weight, pivot your body sharply to the left. Harness this turning power to unleash a strong "Chopping Hand" (砍手 - Kǎn Shǒu) followed immediately by a whipping Backfist strike (背拳 - Bèi Quán) aimed towards the left side.
Retreat & Phoenix Eye: Initiate a controlled retreat step (退步 - Tuì Bù). As you withdraw, form the specialized "Phoenix Eye Fist" (凤眼拳 - Fèng Yǎn Quán). Step forward again (上部 - Shàng Bù), combining this advance with another downward "Chop Hand" that seamlessly transitions into a penetrating "Soft Palm" (软掌 - Ruǎn Zhǎng) strike – embodying the Yin-Yang balance of force and subtlety in Bak Mei.
Direct Step Back & Close: Execute a direct step straight back (直步往后 - Zhí Bù Wǎng Hòu), maintaining your structure and guard. Conclude this phase of the movement, often referred to as "Cun Zhang" (村长 - Cūn Zhǎng) within the sequence, settling into a stable stance, ready for the next action.
Key Bak Mei Kung Fu Principles in Movement 2
Fluidity in Power: Movements are connected like a chain. Power generated in one motion flows directly into the next (e.g., Chop Hand to Punch, Step to Sweep).
Angular Footwork: The 40-degree step and pivots are crucial. Bak Mei rarely attacks head-on; angles create advantage and defense.
Simultaneous Attack & Defense: Every major hand technique (Chop, Punch, Palm Strike) serves both to deflect/block and to strike – true Bak Mei efficiency.
Short Power (Cun Jin): Explosive force is generated from precise body mechanics (waist turn, sinking, rooting) over short distances, evident in the punches and palm strikes.
Soft-Hard Interchange: The combination of forceful strikes (Chop, Punch, Backfist) with the penetrative "Soft Palm" demonstrates Bak Mei's signature internal power delivery.
Mastering the Practice: Sifu Kwok's Advice
Consistency is paramount. Sifu Kwok emphasizes:Start Slow: Like Sifu demonstrated, begin with the slow-motion breakdown . Isolate each step, each hand position, each weight shift. Ensure absolute correctness before adding speed.
Repetition: Dedicate focused practice sessions solely to this second movement . Repeat the sequence meticulously dozens of times. Muscle memory is built through relentless, mindful repetition.
Integrate: Once Movement 2 feels comfortable, seamlessly integrate it with the first movement you learned. Practice the transition until it becomes one continuous, flowing expression of Bak Mei Kung Fu.
Seek Refinement: Pay constant attention to your stance stability, waist rotation, shoulder relaxation, and precise hand formations (especially the Phoenix Eye Fist). Small adjustments yield significant power gains.
Embodying the Bak Mei Spirit
This second movement exemplifies Bak Mei Kung Fu's practical combat effectiveness. It trains you to flow between offense and defense, use angles strategically, and deliver devastating power from close range. Remember, mastery isn't about speed first; it's about precision, understanding the application behind each motion, and diligent, patient practice.
Take Action Now!
Don't let this knowledge remain theoretical. Get up, find your space, and begin practicing Bak Mei Kung Fu Movement 2 immediately. Start slowly, focus on the steps outlined, and feel the power and flow of this incredible southern Chinese martial art. Dedicate yourself to mastering this movement. Combine it with the first. Build your Bak Mei form, one precise, powerful movement at a time. Train hard, practice mindfully, and carry the spirit of the White Eyebrow forward! (加油 - Jiā Yóu!)
Ready to delve deeper into traditional Bak Mei Kung Fu (Cross Fist)? Explore our detailed tutorials on Movement 1 and foundational stances to build a complete practice!
