What Kind of Practice?

Carrying on from the last positing of  how one develops the skills to react. However, prior to doing so, I would like to acknowledge my sincerest condolences to good friends Tom & Benita Byrne who lost their daughter to Cancer yesterday evening. Her husband, Ryan Demers lost his love. The two shared their spirit through Martial Arts. Angilika fought so valiantly the last weeks of her life. Those who have gone through Black Belt promotions could only imagine how easy their physical tests were compared to Angilika's test against this final foe. Her spirit lives on and her strength will be remembered to those who were touched by her presence. Rest-In-Peace Dearest Angilika. Life continues.  The cycle will repeat itself. Brothers Tommy, Jeremy and Stevie will sorely miss you as will daughters Lilly and Naomi. God's Speed. Please visit DRAGON STAR KUNG FU @  www.dragonstarkungfu .

Developing the skill set: Chi Sao also known as sticky hands (as well as feet) is the core exercise practiced by skilled practitioners. The exercise develops one's ability to feel and recognize movements as their are applied. Application and recognition is initially learned by touch and slowly develops to partial contact and then non-contact. An analogy would be learning to ride a bike. You first start with walking along side the bike then getting on the seat, learning how to balance. Your feet are used to touch the ground to feel a connection and correct the sensation (balance) of falling. As confidence and ability develops, you do not rely on utilizing your feet to balance and/or your body to adjust to those sensations associated with this new skill.  Learning Chi Sao a.k.a. Sticky Hands should be in a class room environment. One cannot learn this skill initially and should have interaction with practitioners with developed skills. Those with developed skills can continue with their abilities sans a partner. Knowledge of center, rooting, movements are required in order to develop your skills. More in the next positing.