The Resurgence of Traditional Martial Arts in Modern Mixed Martial Arts

[windwalker099]

View attachment 32671

My mistake, the question was meant to be
What is being measured?

The appropriate method depends on what is being measured.
The scientific method may not always be the best way to quantify certain types of internal processes.



For example:

Scientific measurement: "Your blood oxygen level is 95%." (Objective, numerical data)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) assessment: "Your lung qi is weak because you have a cough and shallow breathing." (Qualitative, holistic interpretation)

Each method has its own framework for evaluation, depending on the context.

In Taiji and internal martial arts, methods that emphasize internal processes (such as intent, relaxation, and energy flow) are often assessed based on how they affect movement, structure, and efficiency of force application, rather than solely on fighting ability.

A key distinction is that internal development is often judged by changes in one’s body mechanics, sensitivity, and ability to generate and absorb force—rather than direct combat effectiveness alone.

 

[JowGaWolf]

The measurement of effectiveness are you using is based on what ?

Do we have examples of Bruce Lee being water?

 

[drop bear]

My mistake, the question was meant to be
What is being measured?

The appropriate method depends on what is being measured.
The scientific method may not always be the best way to quantify certain types of internal processes.



For example:

Scientific measurement: "Your blood oxygen level is 95%." (Objective, numerical data)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) assessment: "Your lung qi is weak because you have a cough and shallow breathing." (Qualitative, holistic interpretation)

Each method has its own framework for evaluation, depending on the context.

In Taiji and internal martial arts, methods that emphasize internal processes (such as intent, relaxation, and energy flow) are often assessed based on how they affect movement, structure, and efficiency of force application, rather than solely on fighting ability.

A key distinction is that internal development is often judged by changes in one’s body mechanics, sensitivity, and ability to generate and absorb force—rather than direct combat effectiveness alone.

So there is no experiment that could test these things?

 

[windwalker099]

So there is no experiment that could test these things?

There have been ongoing studies in China and Taiwan attempting to understand the physiological and psychological effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices and methods.

Taiji, like other arts classified as 'internal,' is rooted in TCM principles.
While one does not have to adhere strictly to TCM,
its theoretical framework serves as the foundation for internal martial arts.

My own practice follows an empirical approach to Taiji theory and application,
reflecting the teachings of my teacher Master Zhang Yongliang
and other esteemed Taiji masters.

 

[drop bear]

There have been ongoing studies in China and Taiwan attempting to understand the physiological and psychological effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices and methods.

Taiji, like other arts classified as 'internal,' is rooted in TCM principles.
While one does not have to adhere strictly to TCM,
its theoretical framework serves as the foundation for internal martial arts.

My own practice follows an empirical approach to Taiji theory and application,
reflecting the teachings of my teacher Master Zhang Yongliang
and other esteemed Taiji masters.

So you suggest you can do a thing. You test it under controlled conditions.

 

[windwalker099]

So you suggest you can do a thing. You test it under controlled conditions.

"controlled conditions"

A long time ago. I worked with an Phd, level physicist who worked at one of the National Metrology Institutes
He happened to be practicing with me.

These labs are responsible for establishing, maintaining, and improving national measurement standards to ensure accuracy, consistency, and traceability.

A lot of technology is used to maintain the integrity of these standards. Using the instruments available, he attempted to measure what he felt from me—something he could sense and react to. However, it didn’t work out well,
he wasn't sure what he was trying to test. Neither was i at the time...now it might be different.


Nowadays, there are labs conducting studies on similar subjects with more qualified individuals who understand what they’re testing and how, leading to many theories.

One interesting theory comes from Jie Gu, Ph.D., who proposes that Qi in Taijiquan is an intention wave—a physiological wave guided by the mind. He differentiates the breath (gas) from Qi, describing it as a wave rather than air.

While interesting, this theory doesn’t fully help with my work.

I field-test my work with those qualified in the same field when possible.
For me, replicating aspects of others' work that interest me is sufficient.

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