Saiden

Saiden, also known as Saiten or literally "The Great Wall," is a prominent martial arts technique originating from traditional Chinese martial arts, particularly the styles influenced by Taoist philosophy. It is often described as a defensive posture or a structural method rather than a specific offensive move. The core principle of Saiden involves creating a strong, grounded, and stable physical structure, often likened to a fortified wall, to withstand or deflect an opponent's force. This is achieved through precise alignment of the body, rooted stances, and the application of internal power (Qi or Neijin).

The practice of Saiden emphasizes maintaining a connection to the ground and distributing force efficiently throughout the body. This allows the practitioner to absorb and redirect incoming energy without compromising their own structure. It is not about resisting force with brute strength, but rather yielding to it in a controlled manner, similar to how a willow tree bends in the wind. The technique requires significant internal focus, body awareness, and often years of dedicated training to master. Saiden is a fundamental concept found in many internal martial arts, such as Tai Chi Chuan, Baguazhang, and Xing Yi Quan, where it serves as a foundational element for both defense and offense.