Harnessing Tai Chi's Kao Energy: Keys to Training and Application

Kao (leaning, relying upon) is the last of the 8 Tai Chi Energies of Peng, Lu, Ji, An, Cai, Lie, Zhou, and Kao. But it is the one I train my students in first. Why? Because it forms the foundation of these essential functions: 1. Neutralize the opponent's force by dissipating it along your body's surface. 2. Prevent your opponent's force from entering your body and affecting your center. 3. Balance your body to redirect their force. 4. Balance your body for powerful close range strikes. 5. Teaches awareness of your energy and spiritual body. Can you imagine doing Tai Chi without these capacities? And how much more relaxed will your Tai Chi be when you can remain unthreatened by their pressure? Further beyond that, how much more easily can you develop the other offensive and defensive energies when you are aware of your energy and spiritual body? Ready to find out? Join me on this exploration of this essential concept. If you have any questions please ask in the comments, because this will really help your Tai Chi develop. Once you have gained a working understanding and skill with Kao, the next energy to explore will be Peng!