Complete Book of Taijiquan" says, "Grasping the Sparrow's Tail is the fundamental technique that embodies the essence of Taijiquan." Grasping the Sparrow's Tail includes the four methods of Ward Off, Roll Back, Press, and Push, which are the basic techniques of Yang-style Taijiquan and form the foundation of the boxing form, pushing hands, and combat skills. Most of the boxing styles and postures in Yang-style Taijiquan are derived from variations of Grasping the Sparrow's Tail or the Four Push Hands of Grasping the Sparrow's Tail.