WCI Review - Sam Chan - Biu Gee

Biu Gee ("Thrusting Fingers"), the third empty-hand form of Wing Chun, is often a benchmark for practitioners, in terms of proficiency and understanding of the first and second empty-hand forms, in attaining a degree of an earned right to access what was once perceived as a form kept to closed-door access for only the most devout, inner circle students. The Internet, social media, and tutorial video age has broken those perceptions down. Sifu Sam Chan, submits a rather information-rich instructional video spanning only 45 minutes, with demonstrations from multiple camera angles.

While the various lineages have subtle to glaringly different demonstrations of the Biu Gee form, its core concepts and applications are consistent. Following the obligatory preface, Sifu Chan concisely imparts the fundamental concepts unique to Biu Gee, as well as the ones relative to the techniques played and how they build upon the fundamentals established in Siu Lim Tau and Chum Kiu. Chan uses bullet point delivery and efficiency that flows seamlessly from one demonstration to the next—as Wing Chun does.

Throughout the virtual video class there is a particular emphasis on that it all comes down to reinforcing and developing an even more powerful punch, which is broken down into several sections containing multiple subsections within. However, this all begins with the multi-angle demonstration of the form itself, and the relative terminologies of the actions played. First in full, then broken down piece by piece.

With conceptual and technical aspects examined, Sifu Chan then explains how to apply the techniques, from partner drills to Chi Sau, to simple practical applications, to being engaged in a fight. Throughout, he conveys the mantra of "relax" through his demeanour and activity rather than constantly having to vocalise it.

Two-handed Chi Sau then takes centre stage with simple drills to develop the reflex reactions appropriate for direct contact, and pressure range to heighten one's response time. This instructional video moves swiftly from one demo to the next with more partner drills unique to Sifu Chan's training methods.

Finally, and perhaps most interestingly, we are introduced to the physical capabilities necessary to fulfil the demands of the form with efficacy, control and power. Added to the heavy bag and target training are weighted devices and other apparatuses.

Because of the high-quality video resolution and Sifu Chan's expert instruction, it moves along quickly and smoothly. It's a nice addition to one's training collection, pointing one's understanding in the right direction so as to avoid being thrust into a compromising position.

Sam Chan - Biu Gee
Language: English
Running Time: Approx. 45 min.
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