Chi Sau (sticky hand practice) is the special aspect of Wing Chun that sets Wing Chun apart from most other martial arts. Many styles try to emulate chi sau. However, a solid foundation from Siu Lim Tau and the understanding of proper Wing Chun principles are required if good progress is to be obtained. Chi Sau is the controlled laboratory in which a practitioner brings to life the techniques learned from the empty hand forms. Chi Sau develops understanding of energy, centerline control, reaction, and the ebb and flow of attack and defense

   Chi Sau is truly one aspect of Wing Chun practice which can never be mastered and can bring great enjoyment from practice, isolation, exploration, and dissection of individual techniques and principles. Each session of Chi Sau is different and holds a myriad of hand techniques and varying combinations. Every Chi Sau session creates new combinations and knowledge. The amazing hand flow of Wing Chun is developed through diligent practice of Chi Sau.

Chi Sau Progression
Students progress through several different levels of Chi Sau during their training in Wing Chun. While not a comprehensive list of the different ways to perform Chi Sau, below is a sample list of a few levels through which students will move.

Single Hand Chi Sau
Beginner students will first learn to Chi Sau with a single hand, allowing them to get used to the rolling, feeling their opponents energy, using forward energy, and the many other concepts practiced in Chi Sau, while only having to worry about coordinating a single hand.

Double Hand Chi Sau
Students quickly progress to two handed chi sau, which allows for many more Wing Chun techniques to be used. Students continue to work on developing forward energy, attacking and defending the centerline, and developing reflexes.

Chi Sau with Footwork
At this level, the student begins adding footwork and mobility to Chi Sau, and training their awareness of their environment.

Chi Sau in Confined Space
Students may practice Chi Sau in a confined space, limiting their mobility, or within a ring, whereby they can force their opponent out of the ring.

Chi Sau Around Objects
Objects may be placed inside the Chi Sau area, such as cones, which the students must move around while doing Chi Sau. Or, students may perform Chi Sau on a balance beam or low table, testing their balance and rooting abilities.

Blind Folded Chi Sau
Advanced students must perform Chi Sau blindfolded, relying totally on their other senses and ability to feel their opponent to perform Chi Sau.

Member of the International Wing Chun Martial Art Association