In Wang Yonquan's Taijiquan lineage, the Power Point (Diǎn 点) is defined in direct opposition to the Surface (Miàn 面). This distinction represents the dynamic interplay of Yin and Yang in push hands: one leads to effortless control, the other to struggle and entanglement.

The Power Point (Diǎn 点): Minimum Contact, Maximum Control

The practitioner does not merely touch the opponent; they create a singular point of contact. This Power Point serves as the gateway to the opponent’s internal structure, connecting directly to their center (Zhōng 心/中) — a locus of balance and structural integrity rather than mass or center of gravity.

When the Power Point is properly established, moving the point moves the opponent’s body as a single, unified mass. Pushing, pulling, or rotating the point channels Point Power (Diǎn Jìn 点劲) without reliance on brute force. Like the Zero Point (Líng Diǎn 零点), the Power Point enables the practitioner to render the opponent’s body soft, light, and effortless to manipulate.

The Surface (Miàn 面): The Common Pitfall

The Surface arises when contact becomes broad, muscular, or tense — the instinctual default for most practitioners. Engaging with a Surface leads to:

• Loss of Sensitivity: The larger contact area allows the opponent to distribute force and find leverage.

• Loss of Control: Broad contact encourages a struggle of strength against strength.

• Loss of Spirit: Anxiety or distraction widens the contact and undermines the Power Point.

Master Zhu’s instruction is clear: "Generate the point, not the plane (Diǎn bù Miàn 点不面)". The Surface, no matter how forceful, is the antithesis of refined Taijiquan skill.

The Non-Negotiable Rule: 不丢不顶 (Bù Diū Bù Dǐng)

Creating and maintaining the Power Point requires full adherence to the lineage principle Bù Diū Bù Dǐng (不丢不顶) — “not to forsake, not to oppose.”

• Bù Diū (不丢 – Not to forsake): Maintain sensitive, continuous contact with the opponent’s energy. Even the smallest Power Point must remain magnetically adhered.

• Bù Dǐng (不顶 – Not to oppose): Never meet the opponent’s force head-on. Opposition converts the point into a rigid Surface, breaking integration and nullifying leverage.

The challenge is profound: the Power Point disappears the instant the practitioner succumbs to wrestling, brute force, or distraction. Mastery begins by consistently creating the point, allowing it to function as a subtle antenna to sense the opponent’s intent and movement.

Creating vs. Finding the Power Point

In practice, the Power Point is both an external point of contact and an internal state of connection. You might experience it as “finding” a point, but Master Zhu emphasizes creating the point (Shēng Chéng Diǎn 生成点) through intent and cultivation (Xiū Liàn 修炼). It is not discovered passively; it must be actively generated, grounded in stillness (Jìng 静) and mental focus (Yì 意).

This principle, difficult yet transformative, embodies the core contribution of the Wang Yongquan lineage. By controlling the Power Point, the practitioner controls the opponent’s center, and therefore, their entire body. All other problems in a confrontation become secondary.