Rolling Arms – Poon Sau

Overview
Poon Sau is the heartbeat of Chi Sau training. It is the continuous rolling cycle that teaches flow, timing, and connection between both arms. Rather than focusing on techniques, Poon Sau builds the foundation of touch sensitivity, the ability to read pressure, dissolve force, and take the centreline the moment it appears.

Purpose of the Drill
The aim of Poon Sau is to create a stable, relaxed loop where both partners maintain contact while moving with intent. The rolling motion trains coordination between elbow energy, wrist alignment, and forward pressure. Through repetition, the practitioner learns how to recognise and respond to subtle changes instantly.

Maintaining Structure
During the cycle, the elbows guard the centre, the shoulders stay relaxed, and the wrists remain alive. Good Poon Sau is neither stiff nor loose, it is balanced. The structure must hold enough shape to protect the line while staying soft enough to adapt.

Developing Sensitivity & Timing
Poon Sau teaches the core listening skill of Wing Chun: feeling intention before it becomes action. Instead of reacting visually, the practitioner responds through touch, making timing faster and more efficient.

How It Connects to Chi Sau
Every Chi Sau drill, Daan Chi Sau, Seung Chi Sau, Gor Sau, relies on the qualities developed here. Poon Sau is the recipe. Chi Sau is the dish. Without strong rolling, higher-level sticking hands become unstable under pressure.

Common Lessons in Poon Sau

• Keep the cycle smooth and consistent

• Maintain forward intent without pushing

• Let the elbows protect the centreline

• Relax shoulders and stay rooted

• React early when the line becomes open