Chen Zhonghua correcting Todd Elihu at the 2016 Iowa Workshop.
When the elbow comes in, the finger must aim onto person. Actually, every move must aim onto person.
When locked at one or two points, utilize another set of points beyond the initial set of points to go over/break out.
Isolation exercise #1: partner holds your arm at the wrist and shoulder. You squeeze the muscles on the body-side of the where he has his hand on your shoulder, then extend the fingers. Each move must be independent from one another. Switch back and forth.
Isolation exercise #2: Partner lightly slaps you on the shoulder/upper arm. At the same time you only raise your arm under his arm. Nothing else moves.
Elbow after "Fist of Covering Hand": To get the correct movement, get into position, lock the upper body, and rotate on the front shoulder/kua line. One can pivot on the front heel, as well. Don't lean the body into it. In application, first lock onto the opponent's body with one's front shoulder and leg. Then line the tip of the elbow and back knee and stretch them apart. The stomach must be empty and not be holding power. If you can separate the rear side of the torso, you can swing it to add power.
Elbow in of negative circle: The arm must be like a rope. The head and front shoulder cannot move. Pull the elbow in on the correct line.
Correction during "Cloud Hands" (but applies to all moves): My shoulders are popping out. The arm movement must be independent and not cause them to pop out.
If opponent is strong on the outside, get inside. If the opponent is strong inside, go outside.
Could you clarify/elaborate on the last 2 sentences on inside/outside?
I guess the outside/inside is a general principle of push hand, not just referring to Cloud Hands, right?
Misread it the first time.
Yes, it is a general principle. If the opponent grabs you and try's to control you on the outside of your body and is very strong, then find a way to get to his inside to gain the advantage. If the opponent is pushing your torso and is in tight, go around him to the outside to gain the advantage.