This stance involves gripping the floor at just the right moment to generate and deliver maximum power to the striking surface. The power then moves from the feet, up through the legs and body and out the fist, transforming the entire body into a powerful driving force. Basically a ‘close in’ fighting system, Southern Preying Mantis is known for its ‘one-inch strikes’—similar to the one-inch punch made famous by the legendary Bruce Lee.

The theory is to get your opponent off-balance and not let them regain it, and at the same time, shift in close and attack with many rapid-fire short strikes.Many of the strikes are open palm attacks for a faster delivery. The characteristic fist of the system is the ‘phoenix eye fist’, which the mantis practitioner uses to attack pressure points.

The distance needed to provide Southern Preying Mantis’s devastating power becomes shorter over time as training moves from externally generated power to internally generated power. In this system, with regular discipline, it will become possible to knock someone out with just your palm contacting the head, without any need to physically draw back your arm beforehand.

Defence takes the form of striking any incoming limbs with a ferocity that immediately puts the attacker on the back foot. The initial ‘block’ can be used as an attack to redirect the force of their attacking blow, but it is still a hit with maximum power. This power is not used directly against force in the Preying Mantis system. That wastes valuable time.

Using Tai Chi principles we redirect the blow and immediately counterattack with rapid, multiple strikes. What better way to deter a would-be attacker than delivering power that instantly produces fear? If you can hit hard enough a person will faint, whether you hit their head, arm, or body.

Weapons are taught to students after they have spent time on the basics. Specific weapons are introduced in certain grades to enhance the understanding and power of the techniques.