Good afternoon.
I would like to talk briefly about the subject of the forthcoming seminar – Chi-Sau. There has been many articles written about this subject over the years (and indeed I have written about it before – in particular see my post on October 26th 2007), but there are some items that I would like to highlight.
Chi-Sau is the special quality that sets Wing Tsun apart from all other martial arts; masters of Wing Tsun are also, by definition, masters of Chi-Sau and it is through the skills gained in this unique training method that they are often held in high regard. Chi-Sau permeates every aspect of the art, from the most basic application to the highest refined techniques which are only known by a select few. This training method is quintessentially Wing Tsun; its aim is simply perfection. Every technique, every movement, every defence, every attack and every body dynamic is trained through this mechanism – it is not for no reason that Chi-Sau is called the ‘Soul of Wing Tsun.’
Unique because it retrains the nervous system and builds automatic reflexes, and misunderstood because it has so many different levels, theories, philosophies and parts, only a specialist who has deeply trained and analysed it can comprehend its role in the whole art. It is also unusual because, although it is the heart of the art, Chi-Sau is only effective if it is developed alongside the rest of the art. When you study Chinese Wing Tsun you find that every single part has its purpose…
Chi-Sau is not a ‘quick-fix’ solution; it undeniably takes years to master. However, that does not mean it is of no use even after relatively limited training. With the correct understanding it can have profound effect on techniques almost straight away. One of the fascinating (and you could even say addictive) parts of the art is that you always striving to improve your ability – even if you are skilled enough for fighting purposes.
Each part of the Wing Tsun system – Siu Nim Tao, Chum Kiu, Biu Jee and Wooden Dummy – has its corresponding Chi-Sau sections. These build on previous reactions, teach new movements, combinations and defences. These are not ‘modern’ techniques, I did not ‘invent’ them, nor did my Sifu, or even his Sifu; these are a product of continuous development over the last 300 years. Take my word on this, be very careful before you alter any parts of this – you do so at your own peril…
On the topic of Chi-Sau I would like to finally mention that whilst Chi-Sau is a highly effectively training mechanism it is also one of the most beautiful parts of the art – when you have the fortune to see two highly skilled practitioners it really is ‘poetry in motion.’ It shows the dichotomy of Wing Tsun – raw power combined with unsurpassed elegance and refinement. After all this is why it is a martial ‘art’…
It is for all the above reasons, and more, that I have taught a seminar on this topic each year. The seminar itself will be available, and indeed recommended, for students of all levels. As it is the one time of year when the highest grading takes place, there will be a number of different groups to ensure that everyone can train the material appropriate to them. The beginner will start to learn what Chi-Sau truly is, and the advanced will begin to walk further into the depths of the art. As students will be aware, classes over the last two and a half months have been dedicated to making sure that students get the most out of this training, and the seminar will be building on everything taught. Taught over 4 days, and with 15 hours of practice, it will be an extremely intensive training, aimed to increase not only the basic skills, but your understanding of Wing Tsun as a whole.
This is likely to be a busy seminar so please let the teachers know as soon as possible, if you haven’t already, how many days you will be attending. It is recommended that you attend the whole seminar for the best effect, but those who are unable to manage this you will still find the individual days beneficial.
Sifu