Large Wide Open Motions Versa's Tight Tense Motions We have both intrinsic muscles (used for finer movements) and extrinsic muscles (used for heavy lifting and etc.), however, in the beginning stages of martial arts it is the intrinsic muscles that must be strengthened and developed first and foremost, through the practicing of soft and wide open motions. It is the intrinsic muscle group which allows us to refine our movements, and produce graceful and fluid motions. This is why Tsai Li Fo created the use of soft wide open circular movements in the very beginning of training, to permanently plant in the mind the seed of the intrinsic muscle reflexes for life.   On the other hand, when strong muscular (extrinsic) force is developed first, it becomes ingrained in the "mind/muscle memory" permanently. It trains the mind and body to ignore or disregard the functionally of the intrinsic muscles less and less, and rely more and more on the stiff and jerky motions of the extrinsic set. An extreme example of this can be seen in many older people as they move about. Their center of gravity is no longer carried in there navel, and their movements tend to be almost robotic in nature, totally dependent on their extrinsic muscles groups with their range of motion decreasing year by year. This is why Dynamic Tension, or tense type motions are not introduced to the student until much later on.