quote: Originally posted by Klondike93...Do you know why Mr. Parker replaced it? Captured Twigs seems easier to do than Spreading Branch.
quote: Originally posted by Goldendragon7...Right it is....... that's why!
It is easier, but I found it needs modification from the way it is written in the books.
It calls for you to, 1.) Step out to 9 o'clock as you simultaneously trap you opponents hands with you left, while sinking into a horse stance and delivering a backhammerfist strike to the opponent's groin.
2.) Pivot to face 3 o'clock in a cat stance, left hand high to check the mid to high zone, and the right low, to check the low zone (also loads the elbow for the last srtike).
Here's where I see people having most of their problems I'd say about 90% of the time.
The opponent in the first set of movements has his body shifted to the left as you step out to 9 o'clock. That should happen in all practicality because if he is commited to the attack he doesn't want to let you go. But that's not where the potential problem lies. As you begin to pivot the rotation of your shoulders causes the opponent to roll back and away to the left of you. This now puts him out of range for the foot stomp and/or the elbow strike. Your balance is also comprimised if the opposite happens and he collapses his weight on you while in the cat stance.
I know this is so because the point I have brought up was a question I had and it was demonstrated to me not only by my instructor but by other Kenpo Seniors as well. Mind you, I did the technique on them, then I applied the hold and had them do the technique on me.

At 6' 5" tall, if I had a trouble getting the stomp never mind the elbow to work, what happens to all those of normal hieght?
In conclusion I am not saying Captured Twigs doesn't work, I just think it needs modification TO work. I prefer to stay with Spreading Branch for the rear bear hug attack. :asian: