Written by Bruce Lee, Tao of Jeet Kune Do, Edited by Lak Loi
Bruce Lee wrote the following about his fighting stance, which he referred to as the Bay Jong, On-Guard Position and the Ready Stance interchangeably.
The position should be the one found to give maximum ease and relaxation, combined with smoothness of movement at all times.
The on-guard position must, above all, be a ‘proper spiritual attitude’ stance.
FUNDAMENTAL POSITIONING is the foundation.
Fundamental suggests:
- Simple but effective organisation of oneself mentally and physically,
- Ease, comfort and body feel during maintenance of the ‘spiritual stance,’ and
- Simplicity. Movement with no strain. Being neutral, it has no commitment in directional course or exertion.
Positioning suggests:
- A state of movements opposed to a static position, an ‘established’ form or attitude,
- Repositioning, especially with small phasic movement, resulting in further dis-organisation of the opponent’s sustained watchfulness, and
- Adaptation to opponent’s watchfulness.
Body Feel suggests a harmonious interplay of body and spirit, both inseparable.
Such is life.