Hung Gar is known for its 12 bridges (sahp yi ji kiu) or kiu sau, a concept that is familiar to many styles of Chinese martial arts.
The bridge principal focuses on teaching the way a technique is executed and represents the transference of power and energy from internal to external and the its delivery through the arms to overcome, deflect or immobilize the opponent.
In understanding and executing the 12 bridges it is essential that you have an understanding and mastery of:
- Dan Tien focus
- internal and external fundamentals embodied in the combination of the stances
- centre of gravity positioning
- breath control and the sounds
- muscular control
- balance and body position
- directions of attack and defense
- correct use of the arms (blocking, punching, controlling, breaking, grabbing)
- spirit and focus
The 12 bridges also represent important keywords and principles of Hung Gar that form the basis and meaning of the art, and that also serve to guide the student along the path of discovery.
Click here to see a detailed description of the 12 bridges (PDF format). If you need to download the Acrobat Reader to access PDF files, click on the image to the right.
