Is it just me or is he using a lot of shoulder swing? Watch 2:17-2:20. His strokes look a little different but seems powerful.
I think for the most part, Xiong Guo Bao is demonstrating good technique here. In particular, I like his emphasis on using grip tightening. This is something I've seen emphasised by other Chinese coaches, such as Xiao Jie. However, some of his clears and smashes use too big a swing -- more of a "sweep" than a "snap". Rather than trying to use a big sweep, I recommend players focus on a sharp hitting action with restricted follow-after -- there should be a sudden "stop" to the movement shortly after the point of contact.
...I was wondering about that too. I asked myself, trying to remember - did he also show this kind of shoulder-dominant technique in his older video? I don't think so... hmm... It seemed more "wrist-generated power" from his older video :S...hmmm.. Coach Gollum, Thanks for the clarification
Not sure which part you are referring to. In part 3/3, he was explaining how an initial loose grip contributes to a "3rd" wave of delivering power, the first from the entire arm, the second from forearm, and finally from the rotation when tightening the grip. He demonstrated in the video how it is still possible to clear with just the first two 'waves' but that is more tiring and not sustainable.
It's entirely possible that the "bad demos" I was referring to were deliberate bad demos -- "this is the wrong way to do it. Don't copy this." I don't speak Chinese (any variety). A translation of this video would be useful (hint, hint...)
if only i could ever pull a shot like this off http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7Ux7OzYlQ0&feature=related
I don't do a big lob that involves swinging my arm as hard as possible at the birdie, trying to do a backhand clear. The way I've been practicing and so far has been fine is to whip the birdie up fast and hard. Just do a whipping action while trying to hit it up and hit it with some strength. Practice will make this better
