Introduction to Huen Sau – Developing Circling Energy in Wing Chun Dummy Training

In this lesson, we introduce a key motion in Wing Chun: Huen Sau (circling hand). This versatile technique helps you maintain contact, recover position, and redirect incoming force—all essential qualities in close-range combat.
What Is Huen Sau?
Huen Sau (圈手) translates to "circling hand". It's a circular motion used to transition between techniques, maintain structure, and regain control of the centerline.
• The circle is performed inward, toward your center.
• The size and trajectory of the circle may vary depending on the situation and your body type.
• It’s not just a hand movement—it’s a whole-body coordination drill.
How We Train It
In this drill, we pair Huen Sau with two essential Wing Chun hand positions:
• Fook Sau (伏手) – “Subduing hand” used to control and monitor
• Tan Sau (攤手) – “Spreading hand” used to deflect and create space
You’ll perform Huen Sau in combination with Fook Sau and Tan Sau, learning to transition fluidly between them. This builds your ability to maintain control, redirect energy, and stay adaptable.

Synchronization with Footwork
A key goal in this lesson is to synchronize Huen Sau with your foot turning. This is where Wing Chun’s power and structure come to life:
• As your hand circles inward, your body rotates using proper footwork
• This helps you calibrate your angles based on your individual body size and structure
• Over time, you’ll discover the most effective angles for your own movement and positioning
Everyone’s body is different—these drills help you fine-tune your Wing Chun to suit your personal build.

Training Progression
1. Start without palm strikes. Focus first on smooth transitions and accurate body mechanics.
2. Once you're comfortable with the structure and timing, begin adding palm attacks into the drill.
3. Gradually increase intensity and tactile feedback as your coordination improves.

Why Huen Sau Matters
The Huen Sau is more than just a defensive motion—it’s a bridge between techniques, a tool for sensitivity, and a way to reclaim control of the centerline. When combined with footwork and palm strikes, it becomes a powerful asset in your Wing Chun arsenal.