Written by the author: This guide is written by Sifu Kendra Mahon (Kung Fu Kendra), who wrote this book. It describes what the book covers and who it suits. It is not an independent review.
At a glance
- Series: The Way of Wing Chun, Book 10
- Length: About 48 pages
- Formats: Kindle and paperback
- Best for: Students who already practise chi sau, other martial artists, and readers interested in listening and connection
- Not for: Anyone looking for chi sau drills or step-by-step technique
What the book covers
Twenty-three short chapters in five parts. Part One explains what chi sau is: the basic rolling exercise, the meaning of the name, why it is a training method rather than sparring or a partner form, and why training usually begins with single sticking hands (dan chi sau). Part Two is about listening: sensing force through contact, forward intention, relaxation, eyes-closed practice and self-awareness. Part Three covers responding, including the saying “Receive, Escort, Pursue,” reflexes, yielding, openings and rhythm. Part Four looks at the training partner: different bodies, ego, trust, and seniors training juniors. Part Five carries the ideas into relationships, conflict and presence. A glossary is included.
Who it suits
- Students starting chi sau who want to understand what the exercise is for, beyond the movements.
- Experienced practitioners of any lineage who want words for what they feel at the bridge.
- Seniors and instructors who train juniors and think about trust and control in partner work.
- General readers interested in listening, conflict and staying connected with other people.
How to read it alongside training
The chapters are short enough to read one before a class. Take a single idea into your next chi sau session: notice your own tension in the week you read the relaxation chapter, or your own rising shoulder in the week you read “Listening to Yourself.” The chapters on ego and trust are worth rereading when partner training starts to feel like a contest. The book describes drills in general terms on purpose, because methods differ between lineages, so take any questions about specific drills to your own teacher.
A short excerpt
“The art of sensitivity is, in the end, the art of staying in contact: with ourselves, with the people around us, and with the world as it actually is.”
Where to get it
Chi Sau: The Art of Sensitivity is available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback: Kindle and paperback. Find it on Goodreads under Kung Fu Kendra and Kendra Mahon, or read what students say on the Kung Fu Kendra reviews page. For other Wing Chun books, see our guide to Wing Chun books.
About the author
Sifu Kendra Mahon, known as Kung Fu Kendra, has trained since 2005 and holds Master level (purple sash). She teaches Traditional Wing Chun as it was passed down to her by Master Brian Lewadny, who learned it from Grandmaster William Cheung. She is the author of 13 books and counting, including the ten-book The Way of Wing Chun series.
Frequently asked questions
Is Chi Sau: The Art of Sensitivity a training manual?
No. It explains the philosophy of chi sau: listening through contact, responding, yielding and staying connected. Chi sau has to be learned with a partner under a qualified teacher, and the book describes drills in general terms.
Do I need to practise chi sau to get something from it?
No. It is written for Wing Chun students, martial artists of other styles and readers who have never trained. Much of the book applies the ideas to relationships, conflict and presence.
Who wrote Chi Sau: The Art of Sensitivity?
Sifu Kendra Mahon, known as Kung Fu Kendra. She has trained since 2005, holds Master level (purple sash), and teaches Traditional Wing Chun as it was passed down to her by Master Brian Lewadny, who learned it from Grandmaster William Cheung.
Where can I buy Chi Sau: The Art of Sensitivity?
On Amazon in Kindle and paperback. It is Book 10 of The Way of Wing Chun, and the books can be read in any order.