Chi Sau (ii)

The transition to Pressure Training (PT) began in July with “composite classes” covering as many aspects of the Ving Tsun skill set as I could cram into each training session. Later in the month training focussed on the key components of PT and core chi sau skills. I broke down one approach to Paak sau drills; a short clip will be embedded soon. This approach to Paak sau is a key element of PT that will be used to build skills for countering straight punches.

The introductory level pressure training was a shock to the system for quite a few class members. It was great to see everyone rise to the challenge. There’s much more in store as I gradually increase the intensity of training and the levels of pressure over the next few months.

During this phase of training classes will continue to have a section devoted to core Chi sau skills and specific entries, with each entry (and all the possibilities it presents; both strengths and weaknesses) being featured for weeks at a time. Below is a clip on an important chi sau drill that will continue to be a mainstay of training over the next few weeks.

Key points for Pressure Training:

• Your power comes from your entire body so structure is the key;
• Footwork has to be fast without compromising your structure’
• Focus on relaxed, smooth-flowing punches that come from the elbow and penetrate through the target; and
• In all drills chase the core of your training partner taking the shortest line to hit their core.

Key points for Chi Sau:

• Start by focusing on perfecting the elements of your rolling, light hands with constant forward intention;
• Drill the core drills with accuracy then progress to doing them as fast as you can and with intent that connects them to gwoh sau and real exchanges;
• Make use of the clips in the posts on Chi Sau  and Dan Chi Sau for review of the fundamentals when you are away from training;
• Above all else: keep the energy light and “springy”; and
• Base your choice of attack on what you feel

Chi Sau (ii) from Ving Tsun Combat Science on Vimeo.