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This variation is generally considered both destructive and non-destructive, depending upon the variation.

 

The initial maneuver of Crossed Twigs can be varied in two major ways:

 

a) Arms not pulling with foot maneuver (Non-Destructive)

This variation occurs when the initial foot maneuver of Crossed Twigs allows the arms to remain in their original position (i.e., same relative space), while the body steps away. The pull is then executed at the conclusion of the initial foot maneuver. This variation is generally considered non-destructive, unless combined with the circular pull variation, at which point it would be considered destructive.

 

Rationale For

The rationale for this variation is that the potential opponent should not be pulled until a stable base is established, at which point the pull should occur. This rationale is an attempt to obey American Kenpo rule number one (#1), always establish a base.

 

Rationale Against

The rationale against this variation is that not pulling with the step greatly diminishes the physical ability to pull the potential opponent in the intended direction when compared to the alternative execution. Secondly, delaying the pull does not take advantage of the momentum of the body to help pull the potential opponent in the intended direction (and the direction of the step). Thirdly, allowing the arms to "jet lag" behind the body telegraphs your intent to oppose the potential opponent. And fourthly, delaying the pull does not take immediate control of the potential opponent by not destabilizing the potential opponent's base as soon as possible.

 

b) Pulling on a circular (and not linear) path

This variation occurs when the arms are left straight during the execution of the pull, thus causing the pull to be executed on a vertical, circular path, rather than a linear path. This variation is generally considered destructive.

 

Rationale For

The rationale for executing the maneuver on a circular path is that pulling with the arms straight is a more natural response, seeing as the arms start the maneuver from a straight arm position. Plus, the initial part of the pull is on a downward arch, which helps pull the potential opponent at a downward angle, thus causing more disruption to their base in a shorter period time.

 

Rationale Against

This maneuver executed using the circular path, changes information that is demonstrated by the linear version of the same series of maneuvers. Also, executing the pull while leaving the arms straight and in a circular fashion can diminish the efficacy of the pull, if it where to be executed against a real opponent; where pulling with slightly bent arms, creating a linear pull, produces a better overall result. Furthermore, even though the form does not execute the maneuver at a downward angle, the execution of the maneuver could be done on a downward, linear path and get the same downward pulling effect as the circular variation.