Five Animal Kenpo: Dragon, Snake, Tiger, Leopard, Crane.
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Picture
Tiger Logo © Trevor Haines

Attributes of the Five Animals: Tiger.

Imagery:
The tiger is the embodiment of physical power. A mass of muscle and solid bone, all but the dragon tremor in his presence. He moves with purpose and majesty, as if the jungle were his private abode. He does not fear, does not hesitate, and does not regret. The tiger takes the direct path, no beast dares to oppose him. Miyamoto Mushashi personified the tiger: "Always maintain the attitude of defeating your enemy with one strike."

Essence:
Bone. Large, hard, solid, and fortified bones frame his massive muscles.

Offensive/Defensive:
Defense is a foreign concept to the tiger. He exists to hunt, attack, and instigate the offensive.

Quality of Movement:
Alignment. Not only does the tiger possess a strong frame, but more importantly, he understands how to utilize the alignment of his skeletal structure to achieve power. His body is fused as one unit and hits with the support and effect of his entire being.

Quality of Character:
Righteousness. The tiger is strong in body, but also solid in character. The tiger will choose what is right, and then will be unyielding to this ideal. The tiger will not travel in forbidden paths, but will quietly demonstrate his strength by upholding righteousness.

Combative Strategy:
Thrash and pounce, slash and thrust, circle and line. The tiger utilizes complete follow through with each strike with the intention of penetrating and destroying his target. Although he will utilize combination in his attack, often one strike from the powerful tiger is all that is required to end the confrontation.

Stances/Postures:
In general, stances are applied by the tiger that align the entire body mass behind the intended weapon. The forward bow and close kneel are often favored by the tiger because of their lunging qualities.

Empty Hand Weapons:
The tiger claw is the weapon of choice because it allows the tearing effect of a tiger's follow through to be applied to the face or rib cage area. The fist and heel of the foot are also used for strong blows that can shatter on opponent's targets.

Weapons:
The sword is the traditional weapon of the tiger. The Samurai swordsman of Japan typifies the directness and singularity in purpose and function that a tiger would apply. A knife, to a lesser extent, can also be applied with a tiger strategy.

Attributes of the Five Animals: The Tiger. © 1999 Trevor Haines

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Congratulations to Meghan Gardner (2nd Degree Black Belt) and to Zachary Haines (4th Degree Black Belt)  -- awarded December 23, 2022.