The empty stance, also known as the cat stance (xu bu), is one of the five basic wushu stances. In this lesson, you will learn how to perform the empty stance in modern wushu styles such as Longfist, Broadsword, Straightsword, Staff, and Spear. In some traditional wushu styles—such as Nanquan, Taiji, and Bagua—this stance is performed slightly differently.
Find more wushu instructions at Wushu Main.
Execution
This is an instruction for the right empty stance in wushu.
- Stand on your right leg and bend it slightly more than 90 degrees, so the thigh is horizontal and the knee extends slightly in front of the foot.
Since the right heel must stay flat on the ground, this stance requires some flexibility in the calf. - The left leg is bent slightly, and only the big toe touches the floor.
Important: The front (left) leg should carry no weight at all—the foot touches the ground without any pressure. - The knees should be slightly closed together.
- Keep your spine straight and lean slightly forward—but not too much.
(Remember, your weight should not rest on the front leg.)
Advice
- Learn the Five Stances Form (Wushu Wu Bu Quan).
- Start by holding the empty stance for 30 seconds. Keep practicing until you can maintain the stance for 3 minutes.
Some practitioners of traditional wushu can hold the empty stance for 15 minutes or more. - Practice in front of a mirror to check your alignment.
- Do one-legged empty stance squats to strengthen your quadriceps.
Suggestions
- Bow Stance (Wushu Gong Bu)
- Horse Stance (Wushu Ma Bu)
- Flat Stance (Wushu Pu Bu)
- Rest Stance (Wushu Xie Bu)
- Old Stances Instruction
- Karate (for cross-training or comparison)
Videos/Images
- Empty Stance – Xu Bu
- Five Stances Form – Wushu Wu Bu Quan
