Learning How to Wu Sau is a basic defensive position for many Wing Chun moves. If one hand is attacking then the other hand is usually going to be in this position. Not only serves as a back up block, it can also be turned into an offensive technique (punch, grab,chop, etc.) if the need arises. Understanding how to Wu Sau correctly is more important than you may think.
Understanding how the Common Mistakes
Learning How to Wu Sau is a fundamental defensive position in Wing Chun, crucial for both offense and defense. When one hand is in action, the other typically assumes the Wu Sau into a Man Sau position. This position serves as a backup block and can transform into offensive techniques like punches and chops when necessary. Mastering the correct technique is vital for effective application.
Understanding Wu Sau: Common Mistakes
Many students struggle with the Wu Sau, especially in the early stages of their training. A frequent issue is holding the Wu Sau too close to the body. When collapsed, it lacks the power to withstand an opponent’s attack or deliver an effective counter. To maximize its effectiveness, the Wu Sau hand should be positioned no closer than the inside crease of the opposite elbow. Additionally, the hand must press outward, with fingers pulled back toward the body while keeping them together.
Correcting Techniques
A proper position can be demonstrated in various techniques. Below are examples showcasing correct and incorrect hand positioning:
- Correct Hand Position: This position allows for effective blocking and countering.
- Incorrect Hand Position: An improperly position is ineffective in both offense and defense.
How to Wu Sau Correctly
The problem for many students, especially in the beginning, is not being performed correctly which will make it ineffective. The most common issue is that it is held too close to the body to be useful as either a block or an attack. When the held close to the body, it is “collapsed” meaning if it was meant to be a block then it has no power to withstand the force of the opponent’s attack. If it was meant as a way to attack and its still too close to the body, then it is also going to be ineffective because the ability to produce any power behind a punch, paak, etc is going to be compromised because of its collapsed position.
Being sure your in the correct position is not as difficult as it may seem. Be sure your hand is no closer to your body than the inside crease of your opposite elbow. Its also very important that the hand is pressing outward and the fingers are pulled back toward the body. The boney part of the wrist is what should be pushed outward. While the fingers are being pulled back, don’t forget to keep your fingers together and your thumb should not stick out.
Hopefully this article was helpful in understanding how to Wu Sau correctly. Getting this form right can help in both offense and defense during a fight.
Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu and Kickboxing
Lakeland Florida
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