Chi sau, or Sticking Hands, is a two-person training exercise common to many styles of kung fu. Various schools may have different methods, but in
principle the purpose of chi sau is
to train for combat sensitivity in a safe, controlled partner exercise. The
typical features of chi sau are
smooth, flowing movements, with very little pressure applied, while maintaining
constant physical contact.
The object of chi sau is to adhere, or “stick”, to the opponent’s hands and arms
so that one becomes sensitive to the opponent’s intent to attack in time to
redirect or neutralize his energy while setting oneself up to take advantage of
an opportunity, or create an opening, to counterattack. The goal of chi sau is similar to that of a chess
expert: to be prepared to respond to your opponent’s moves before he himself
knows what they will be.
Demian Gover - 2012Peaceful Mountain Way Kung Fu
