 Basic training in Teng Sau is
required before Kiu Sau (Bridge Arm) and Khum Na (Locking) can be
applied
effectively. In fact the former two are closely interrelated but for
the
purposes of distinction it can be said that the former trains
sensitivity, flow
and control whereas the latter deals with striking tools, bridge
destroying and
power generation.
 The foundation of the
Ancestor system starts with Teng Sau (Listening Hands) or Chi
Sau (Sticking Hands)
as it is more commonly referred to these days. In fact both names are
appropriate but to avoid confusion with our better known Wing Chun cousins we will refer to Teng Sau.
In short Teng Sau training develops and improves the ability to control an opponent once contact is made. Whether the period of contact is over in a split second or longer as in grappling Teng Sau training will develop quicker controlled reflexes.
Initial
training is
practiced on
a fixed Ma (Horse Stance) and once a higher level
of skill
has been achieved it is best trained on a raised platform,
traditionally on
plum blossom poles. This part deals with the core root energies of the
body and
it is this foundation from which we develop our Kung Fu from.
The
second part deals
with methodical drills to develop defence and offence within a platform
framework which is unique to the Ancestor system. This is also the
stage
when the concepts of Ying Yang separation are introduced along with
coordinated
footwork.
Finally
Teng Sau is
taken to the freestyle stage where contact is maintained but attacks
are random
and are taken outside any previous fixed framework. At this stage there
must be
sufficient level of skill to adapt and to deal with completely random
attacks regardless
of style or platform.
 With the Teng Sau
foundation already in place we will have developed increased
sensitivity
and the ability to control power within a framework of free flow. The
next part
covers the interception and control of the opponent’s attacks and
positions at
different ranges. Each individual arm and body position is analytically
trained to demonstrate precise strengths and weaknesses. All arm
structures
from within the Ying Yang Circle
are introduced and
drilled till they are incorporated into the free flow framework.
The
core power
generation centres around both Chong Lik (Heavy Power) and Gin Lik
(Explosive Power). Chong Lik provides flexible power for when the
arms are de-linked from
the body core and thus effective strikes can still be executed without
any body
rooting as the power is generated solely by the arms. Gin Lik on the other hand
develops power
from the body core and requires body linking. Both are extremely
effective
forms of power generation and when combined allow for a highly adaptive
striking armoury.
 Finally Khum Na training
is introduced to develop joint locking skills. Training in the previous
two
stages will allow for more effective Khum Na application and defence.
 All three should be
trained and drilled methodically before progressing into San Sao (Free
Flow).
This final part trains our ability to free flow and to deal with
changing
energies.
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