Gaun Sau - Wing Chun technique
Article by Dan Knight added on 30 Aug 2012. Last updated on 9 Oct 2012.
The Technique - Gaun Sau
Gaun Sau, also sometimes
called Gann Sao roughly translates to splitting hand/arm and usually refers to a low
block. When done in conjunction with a high block (inside Tan Sau) it is often still referred
to as Guan Sau (splitting block).
In the Forms
First appearance in the system:
Sil Lim Tao - second section.
Other appearances in the forms
Muk Yang Jong - the Wing chun wooden dummy form and Biu Gee done high and low.
Applications of Gaun Sau
As a cover
Gaun Sau is ideally used as a block or cover in Wing Chun when attacks are coming low especially attacks to the ribs. This includes uppercuts and low hook punches. The Gaun Sau is one of the essential blocks of the system as it is one of the few techniques that is used to protect the ribs. The blocking area is the outside of the forearm below the wrist.
In Chi Sau
Gaun Sau can be used in Chi Sau to protect low as it would in a normal fighting/sparring situation. You can also drop into Gaun Sau from a high Bong Sau over your partners hands to control them as you use your other hand to control more or strike. This can also be used to lock and trap their arms.