One must also maintain a good connection with the ground while doing forms. The idea is to do the techniques with the aid of the ground, while keeping good balance as well. A Kung Fu person should continuously work on his stance because a poor stance equals poor Kung fu.

One must strive to perform each movement in as exact a manner as possible, each time the form and the techniques, will become second nature.

One must also strive to capture the spirit of the movements or form. Subtle gestures and facial expressions all have to be taken into consideration. For example, if you are doing a tiger technique you should have the look of determination in your eyes. If you are doing a crane technique your movement and expression should be graceful and relaxed.

One must visualize one's opponent, even if it is for a solo forms. It is a waste of time to perform the movements without knowing the applications. Everything we do in Kung Fu has a reason behind it, so visualize your opponent. If you can't visualize your opponent your form won't have purpose and a form without purpose is simply a dance. The practitioner must maintain proper focus throughout the form.

These are simply basic attitudes one must maintain to get the most out of forms. No doubt there are many more additions and refinements, but one must start from the beginning if he wants to reach the end.

Written By Sifu Rino Côté