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More than just a technique, Prik Liam is the glue that helps keep the style together. Without it, all most techniques lack power and speed, and flow that makes the style formidable.Simply put, it is a rotation of the body, kind of a bastard cross of the body swivel in boxing (usually applied in crosses and hooks) and the hip/body rotation of Wing Chun (to name one of many style that do something similar.
I won't take too long explaining this movement because it is THAT simple, just check it out, and give it a try. And remember to use it!
Let's explain it as in the Phan Mut Prik Liam Basic Exercise (number 9):
- Stand in front stance with hands in the Tha Kru guard position.
- Phan Mut to the opposite guard whilst rotating the body.
- Make sure that the outside heel swivels to the outside.
- Phan Mut the other way whilst rotating the body and remember the heel!
Again, it's a simple concept that is used throughout the style, just remember:
- Don't shift your body weight, you should rotate around your spine. Shifting your body weight expends more energy, slow you down and put you off balance.
- Don't worry about the inside foot, let it turn naturally.
- Keep your knees bent, balance centered.
This is one of those moves that is easy to learn but takes a long time to master and fully understand it... so get twisting!

