Student (S)
Master (M)
~~~
S: I have always wondered how some of the lifters move a specific way.
M: Which lifters?
S: Actually most lifters from China. They move in a way that seems really fluid, artistic and at times, magical. It seems like there is a "Chinese technique" and then there are all other techniques.
M: There is no "Chinese Technique". It is not about "Technique". But there is "THE WAY"
S: What is "THE WAY"? How do I find it?
M: Tell me, what exact qualities in their way of lifting makes you feel that way.
S: Well for starters, they are able to use their legs in such an effective manner! Especially the "knee scooping thing" right before the second pull. There are many other things, but this one always appeals to me.
M: It is because they are USING their legs.
S: What do you mean? And I do not?
M: No. Having something and being able to USE it, are two completely different things.
S: I see. So you are saying I do not know how to properly use my legs during the first pull.
M: Precisely.
S: Actually, I will be honest. I have been trying to mimic the knee scooping thing, but no matter what I try, I cannot seem to do it. It does not feel right.
M: It does not feel right because you are actively trying to do it.
S: Huh?
M: Tell me, when you walk or run or ride your bicycle, do you actively try to do them?
S: No my body does it naturally.
M: Correct. So then why would you actively try to move your legs a certain way during lifting?
S: But walking and running are simple movements! And Olympic Weightlifting is far from simple! Olympic lifts are far too complex and technical.
M: I see. Tell me, why do you say walking is a simple movement.
S: Umm .. because I just do it?
M: Think deeper.
S: Because I have been walking for more than 15 years?
M: That is one aspect. Think deeper.
S: Umm ... I cannot think of anything else.
M: When did you first learn how to walk?
S: When I was 1 or 2 .. I do not remember ...
M: Who taught you to walk?
S: I learned it myself ...
M: At a time when you were too young to think and be instructed.
S: My parents might have guided me a little.
M: And, guiding and instruction are two very different things, are they not?.
S: I am beginning to see where you are going with this.
M: Most coaches today instruct and teach. They teach a technique and continue to use cues. Rarely if at all, they guide.
S: That is what I was thinking, just did not know how to articulate it.
M: See, now you already know more than 99% of the "coaches".
S: But when I actively try to move my legs a certain way, am I not learning it myself?
M: No.
S: Why is it so?
M: Because you are using your head (thoughts) to teach your body.
S: How else would I learn?
M: How did you learn to walk? Did you use your thoughts?
S: Thoughts!? Back then I could not even think!
M: (Smiling) You are getting somewhere. You are a born seeker.
S: You think so? I am more confused than ever.
M: The confusion will dissipate soon student. And a deep knowledge will blossom instead.
Just remember this, when things happen naturally, they appear, as you said, fluid, artistic and magical.
S: Hmm, makes sense.
M: I will say, you do look confused, but also less agitated.
S: Well, I will be honest. All this philosophical knowledge has been useful. And I am more hungry than ever to learn THE WAY for myself, but is there anything more concrete you can tell me that will put me in the right direction?
M: Alright. Tell me, if you could fly, which part or muscles of your legs will come in most handy during take-off?
S: Umm... my quadriceps and calves?
M: Bingo! Let that understanding guide you towards THE WAY.