|
<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation: Forms and Sets > Long Form 2 > Variations to Long Form Two > Form Execution - Variations |
As mentioned earlier in the 'Execution of Long Form Two' section, variations to a form fall into one of two categories: destructive or non-destructive. This section will give examples of some common variations and explain how these variations fit into these categories. Consult the 'Execution of Long Form Two' for more insights into variations.
Non-destructive variations are alterations to the standard execution of the form that do not detract from the information intended to be exposed in the form. These variations tend to be more palatable to a scrutinizing audience than destructive variations. There also tend to be far less non-destructive variations than destructive variations. This is due to the fact that it is much harder to alter the standard execution of the form without detracting from the standard information. Because of this fact, non-destructive variations tend to be more 'known' by well traveled, senior instructors.
1) Position of unused hand throughout the execution of the form.
In general, Long Form Two is considered a non-advanced form, i.e. a basic form: even though it is the most advanced of the 'dictionary' forms. So, most of the time the unused hand is retracted into chamber. Although realistic positioning was introduced in Short Form Two, it is still not executed as a standard maneuver in Long Form Two, even though it is demonstrated as standard positioning in various parts of the form.
The most common areas where cocking the unused hand becomes an issue is:
Section #1 / #2 - at the end of sequence
Section #3 / #4 - as part of the sequence
Section #7 / #8 - at the end of sequence
Section #18 - as part of the sequence
Section #19 / #20 - as part of sequence
Each of these sections has at least one position where the unused arm can be chambered or not, some with multiple positions. For preferred hand / arm positioning, see the section 'Execution of Long Form' / 'Form Standard Execution' in this guide.
2) Open or closed Chambered Hand
Also, with the above stated sequences there is a decision as to whether the cocked hand is open or closed. For preferred hand posture, see the section 'Execution of Long Form' / 'Form Standard Execution' in this guide.
3) The Kiai
In general, American Kenpo forms, by default, don't have kiai's. That does not mean that one cannot nor should not add a kiai to a form. Kiai's have very practical value in defensive situations. But, they can also be used to add intensity and/or emphasis to a form and should be added, if desired.
Note: To read more about the kiai and breathing as it relates to American Kenpo refer to Infinite Insight into Kenpo - Book 4 / Chapter 3.
Destructive variations are alterations to the standard execution of the form that detract from the information intended to be exposed in the form. Because of this, destructive variations are discouraged from also becoming permanent variations. Permanent variations are variations to the standard execution of the form that are taught from instructor to student as the standard execution of the form.
One of the main reasons for the creation of a destructive variation is for competition. Variations can be used to 'spice up' a form in an attempt to get higher scores. Where this is perfectly acceptable and accounted for in the system (see the Salutation and "Signifying" - "Signifying Variations" section), it can also be abused to the point where the standard form is no longer recognizable - at which point it is arguable that one is still performing the same form.
Also, destructive variations are almost innumerable. Although some variations are popular and easily recognizable by the well traveled instructor, others are far more obscure and limited to a specific group of practitioners. What follows are some of the more common destructive variations.
Note: for further research in what information is demonstrated in the standard execution as it relates to the variation, see the "Analysis of Long Form Two" section.
1) Changing the foot maneuver angles in the form
This destructive variation alters the standard pattern of the form. Since Long Form Two is an extension of Short Form Two, and builds upon Short / Long Form One, it needs to maintain the same pattern. Also, the foot pattern fits with higher forms. Altering the foot pattern would disrupt this flow.
2) Section #7 / #8 - not executing an inverted vertical back-knuckle
This destructive variation alters the intention of creating a blocking circle / striking sequence category. Altering this sequence would disrupt the completion of the category, leaving this category incomplete.
3) Section #7 / #8 - not executing a buckle
One of the main reasons the buckle with punch at the end of the sequence is necessary is that it fulfills a two-in-one and intent (see Appendix D) category that is demonstrated throughout the form. This destructive variation is common, because the buckle is easily overlooked as just a rotation into a horse. Lack of information about this maneuver can lead to another common variation - landing directly into a neutral bow; which would completely eliminate the two-in-one timing of this maneuver.
4) Section #9 / #10 - not executing an instep kick
This maneuver is typically replaced with a simple front crossover (then step out). The instep kick is needed because it is an integral part of a number of major categories demonstrated in the form.
5) Section #9 / #10 - execution the upward forearm as an upward block
One major reason this maneuver needs to follow the standard execution is because it is an integral part of an intent category that is demonstrated throughout the form.