What's with the spine in Gong Bao Tian Style Baguazhang

[tianzhang]

The back in Gong Bao Tian style Baguazhang isn't curved naturally like other styles, it's kept regular and the buttocks sticks out. This isn't unique to Gong Style either but also to Chen Zhaokui TJQ lineage anyone know the theory behind this?

[Gerard]

It's called "turtle back" in most BGZ styles. From experience, the bum sticking out (only present Gong Bao Zhai lineage)is a direct consequence of all the heavy emphasis on foundation work/grounding this lineage is famous for. Naturally your whole pelvic area expands, loosens up and as a result the butt sticks out. 

[tianzhang]

On 4/11/2025 at 5:07 AM, Gerard said:

It's called "turtle back" in most BGZ styles. From experience, the bum sticking out (only present Gong Bao Zhai lineage)is a direct consequence of all the heavy emphasis on foundation work/grounding this lineage is famous for. Naturally your whole pelvic area expands, loosens up and as a result the butt sticks out. 

Hey Gerald, as you know from our previous conversation I have pelvic floor syndrome and my Doctor diagnosed me with weak kidneys, do you think that Baguaquan would be more helpful than other Baguazhang lineages? I have met some instructors near me and were taking some lessons from them.

[Gerard]

Any style is good, the principle is what matters the most and for this all styles share a common ground.

 

The grounding/foundation videos that HJH runs in his YT channel are very good and highly recommended for anything really not just Ba Gua.