Central equilibrium and Leaning

 Central equilibrium and Leaning

Central equilibrium（中定）can include a bow stance（弓步）with a slight forward inclination. The important distinction is between leaning as an aligned whole and collapsing at the waist（折腰）.

• Aligned inclination（整體前傾）： Your head, trunk, and pelvis remain coordinated; your back stays naturally lengthened. You can receive pressure, turn, or withdraw without first having to recover your balance.

• Collapsing forward（折腰、前栽）： Your chest drops, your hips remain behind, or your weight falls forward so that you depend on the partner’s support.

中定 is dynamic balance and control, not simply a vertical appearance. However, 中正 also concerns posture, and different Tai Chi lineages have different requirements: some permit a slight incline in certain bow stances; others teach a more upright trunk.

A useful check is: If your partner gently removes contact, can you remain balanced and change direction comfortably? That is one indication of maintaining your own centre.

「身可微傾，中不可失；弓步有根，進退自如。」
The body may incline slightly while retaining its centre; a rooted bow stance allows free advance and retreat.