MAKE IT YOUR OWN!

 By Yang Shuangxing

Two high-ranking practitioners of a particular style (and they can even come from the same school) perform a series of basic techniques and/or a given form. You'll notice some small differences in their performances. Nothing major or even easily observable, but they're there. So, is one of them correct and the other is wrong? Have you just seen one of them make a small mistake?

Not necessarily.

They have learned to adapt their techniques to their own unique body styles. This isn't something that's achieved quickly; it requires many, many repetitions over a long period of time. They must adhere to the underlying principles upon which the techniques (and forms) are based. But because their bodies are different, their techniques look a bit different.

Beginning students tend to look pretty much alike. They are doing their best to to imitate the instructor, and that's as it should be. Even lower grade senior students (1^st and even 2^nd grade black belts) tend to do this. By the time they reach the level of 3^rd grade – and definitely by 4^th grade – they have adapted their techniques to their own unique body styles.

As the years pass and their bodies undergo the changes associated with age, they will unconsciously make the necessary adjustments yet again. However, they will always (and I mean ALWAYS) adhere to the proper principles of movement and technique. They don't expend energy unnecessarily, using only what is required for a given movement. It takes some considerable time to learn this.

Psychological changes (including reachinge certain levels of maturity) will also affect their physical performances.

These changes usually occur unconsciously over time. If you continue to strive for perfection, it will happen to you and you'll eventually make the art your own; a part of your “self.” If you TRY to do it, you'll probably foul it up and begin to cut corners and “cheat” when you perform certain techniques or forms. That's not it. The changes will come about of their own accord, without conscious effort. Your instructor will notice it. He's been there.