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Step 1
Learn the fundamental movements for both solo tai chi forms and the push hands form before you practice san-sau. Study the hand forms, steps, leg forms, body positions, eye movements, breathing techniques and rhythms that provide the basis for the solo form. You should also be proficient in the push hands exercises and know how to respond to an opponent's strength and movements.
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Step 2
Find a qualified tai chi instructor to choreograph the san-sau routines for your practice. A proper san-sau should involve every type of movement used in tai chi at least once, and feet, hands, elbows, knees, hips and shoulders should all be used equally.
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Step 3
Locate a suitable partner to practice san-sau in tai chi. Your partner should be as dedicated to the art of tai chi as you to create balance and harmony in the exercise. After the right amount of practice, you and your opponent should be able to anticipate each other's movements with consistency and accuracy.
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Step 4
Remember to breathe correctly during the san-sau form to create and exert the right amount of power and accuracy in your movements. When receiving an opponent's movement, you should be inhaling to accept the transfer of energy. When you are striking your opponent, you should be exhaling and pushing your energy outward. At the same time, each individual tai chi movement must be started on an inhale and concluded on an exhale.
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Step 5
Store energy in your body when you practice the san-sau movements. With every strike delivered and every strike received, you should feel an increase in the energy stored in your body. As the movements progress, you gradually should feel stronger, allowing the life force to flow freely between you and your opponent.
