Horse Stance (馬步 ma bu)

Horse Stance (Ma Bu) is one of the most important stances in Chinese martial arts. It is also known as the ‘horse riding stance’ because its name comes from the stance taken while riding a horse.

Every martial art practitioner will learn the horse stance as it is usually included in the warm-up training. The horse stance is a wide and stable stance with the body weight equally distributed between both legs.

How to do the horse stance?

1. Stand with both feet apart at a distance slightly wider than your shoulder width.
2. Ensure feet are facing forward, parallel to each other.
3. Bend your knees 90 degrees and sink your hips down, as though you are sitting on a horse.
4. Both fists facing upwards at the side of your waist.
5. Keep spine straight and gaze forward.
6. Body is relaxed yet strong.
7. Hold for a minute or longer if possible.

The horse stance is perfect for building endurance, core and leg strength. When it is done correctly, you will feel ‘grounded’ while doing the stance. Practicing the horse stance can be a quick and effective remedy for people with an active mind or those who have trouble focusing.

For Tai Chi practitioners, focus on the dan tian 丹田while bring in the horse stance. Visualise a golden ball of energy in the dan tian丹田and breathe into it. This practice helps to harness and strengthen the qi in your body.