Just to say thank you for the response. Your thoughts do make alot
of sense. In my wing chun training, chi sau has been a focal point
that binds the system together, supposedly giving fluidity to the
practitioner.
However, in my past experiences, chi sau with other practitioners has
been like a grudge match, with other peoples ego's getting in the way
of developement. Leading to a rigid exchange of 'super stiff' arms
trying to wade through and score 'points'.
My views on chi sau are that two people should mutually try and learn
something everytime they roll. I see chi sau as the best way to
understand wing chun. To see what techniques will flow from one to
another under different variables. What do I use when I'm
pulled/pushed for example. Trying a technique out, seeing whether it
does the required job. Looking at the workings of the technique to
see why it was or was not successful, and looking for ways to
simplify the technique if possible, with both practitioners
exchanging ideas and experimenting together. When both parties have
a deeper understanding of the techniques they are using and how they
interact with timing and positioning, does this lead to fluidity? Is
this how chi sau should be performed? Or is there no set way?