(II) Continuous movements and integral force.

Apart from the combination of softness and hardness, Tai Chi Chuan calls for the uninterrupted application of even and integral force. Interrupted application of force means interruption, discontinuity, pause, and sudden change in the application of force. To ensure the continuous flow of force it is necessary to grasp the rules for making the movements continuous, coordinated, and circular. The force in Tai Chi Chuan, which originates from the waist and legs, is applied to the arms and hands, and is focused on the fingers. When the exercises are started, the body moves as an integral whole, with the waist as the pivot. The turn of the waist is in harmony with the stretching and bending of the legs, the outward or inward movement of the feet, and the shift of the body weight. The movements of the arms are also prompt by the turning of the waist.

Stressing the release of force from the waist and legs and the application of integral force does not mean ignoring the role played by the upper limbs. The frequent change in the movement of the arms in Tai Chi Chuan is an expression of the application of force in concentrated form. For example, when the forearm turns outward, a slight force is apply by its side with the little finger as if twisting the force outward. When the forearm turns inward, a slight force is apply by its side with the thumb as if twisting the force inward. When it is pushed forward, apart from the wrist which slightly resists the force, the middle and index fingers receive the force as if the force is focused on the fingertips in your mind. Although the movements are always changing, the force is applied continuously without interruption. To sum up, the combination of softness and hardness mentioned above refers to the change of force, and the continuous application of force refers to the integrity of the force.