42. Step Forward to Cross Fists

(l) Shift the weight forward, turn the upper body to the left, toes of the left foot outward and toes of the right foot inward, straighten the right leg naturally and bend the left leg forward Move the left palm upward and forward to shoulder level. Turn the right arm and drop it, fingers of the hook up behind the body. Look at the left palm. (Fig. 224)

(2) Move the right foot one step forward, ball of foot on the floor to form the right empty step. Change the left palm into a fist and withdraw it slightly inward, knuckles outward. Change the right hook into a fist and move it forward and upward, knuckles inward. Cross the hands at wrists (right fist outside) at shou1der level, arms forming a circle. Look at the left fist. (Fig.225)

Points for attention: Before rising from the crouch step, turn the toes of the left foot outward as much as possible and those of the right foot inward as much as possible while the body turns. C1ose the hips and step forward gently and steadily. In the final position, both the shoulders and hips should be relaxed.