Grandmaster Tse’s Wing Chun Note 512

When we have learnt a certain number of techniques, we should start to apply them during Chī Sáu 黐手 (Sticking Hands). To begin with, we should practise with a partner who does not respond to your attack and allows you to do it. The technique will be very obvious; for example, Kaau Cha Sau. 交叉手

To begin with, we learn to cross both the opponent’s hands by grabbing hold of their arms and crossing them over. However, in Chī Sáu 黐手, we will not be able to do that, as they will know as soon as we start. They may step back, or they might change to Kwán Sáu 綑手 (Rolling Hands).

So, we need to wait for the right situation—when their hands are crossing each other—and then we can use this technique, as we are not so obvious. We must remember that the more strength we use, the more quickly our opponent will react.

We need to attack quickly, but we must also be able to set up the situation naturally. It is the same if we step forward using Jeun Máh 進馬 (Forward Step) into the opponent’s centre during Chī Sáu; it must happen naturally so that the distance closes smoothly. Then our Tāan Sáu 攤手 (Opening Hand) will already be at their chest, and we can hit them without them even noticing.

We must set it up naturally; then the technique will work.