"How much more grevious are the consequences of our anger than the acts which arouse it."

-Marcus Aurelius

Qin Na (Chin Na) - Grab Control

We train in Small Circle White Crane Qin Na. Every action and technique is taken directly from the movements in Classical Yang Style. This system is principle based with endless applications. All of the formal movements are covered (almost 400 of them), and at that point all of the techniques are entered into reflexive-sensitivity drills.

These drills serve a few purposes. The practitioner gains the ability to use the techniques in real time against a defending opponent. They also learn the limb relations (through touch sensitivity) that serve as the launching point for the intended technique. The reflex-sensitivity drills train with the adrenaline-dump in mind. You will also learn to control your breathing, this is part of the brilliance in the traditional methods. 

Qin Na includes grappling, locking, throwing, submissions, control/compliance techniques, muscle and tendon tearing, ripping, and dividing techniques. It also includes control and manipulation of the weaker elements of the human body ( Cheek, lips, skin, etc.). 

One of the most amazing elements of the art is the transitions between each movement. Each technique can transform into any other technique, and for 1000 moves there are 1000 counters. The similarities to BJJ are definitely apparent. However a huge difference is that locks and submissions in these (Qin na) drills are heavily designed to control and break a standing opponent. The locks are generally transitioned into throws, and the break or dislocation takes place as the opponent falls.

It's important to note that Qin Na is not a method of fighting. It's a category of tools, that you may find useful in certain circumstances during a physical altercation. For Qin Na to work you have to close the distance and you must use a technique to weaken the opponent (almost always a striking technique, unless they are willing to comply or hesitant to resist).

In war the techniques are easier to apply, they are generally used to disarm or manipulate an armed opponent. When your weapon is your strength, the stance and grip etc. it takes to support and use it, become a handle for someone to grab, push, pull, twist and throw you in various ways.

The same would also apply for firm grips on clothing. White Crane was developed in Northern China, its primary use was in colder climates. In those situations the extra clothing would render strikes useless, so the balanced stances would take advantage of the slippery terrain, and the grabs would become a bridge between you and your opponent. Once the structures are joined the individual who controls his centre of balance and gravity (lower dan tien) can then manipulate the opponent through turning, spinning, reversing, raising and lowering his centre.