What is Chin-Na?

Chin Na is the Chinese art of seizing and controlling an opponent.

Chin Na techniques are found in many Kung Fu (Chinese martial arts) systems and consist of special grappling and pressing techniques whose basic purpose is to control a person. These grabbing Chin Na techniques control and lock the opponent’s joints or muscles/tendons so he cannot move, thus neutralizing his fighting ability.

You should understand that there is no technique which is perfect for all situations. What you do depends upon what your opponent does, and since your opponent will not stand still and just let you control him, you must be able to adapt your Chin Na to fit the circumstances. Like all other martial techniques, your Chin Na must respond to and follow the situation, and so it needs to be skillful, alive, fast, and powerful. You should furthermore understand that Chin Na must be done by surprise. In grabbing Chin Na, you have to grasp your opponent’s body, and so if your opponent is aware of your intention, it will be extremely difficult for you to successfully apply the technique.

It is usually easier to strike the opponent than to control him. Subduing an opponent through a Chin Na controlling technique is a way to show mercy to someone you do not want to injure. To successfully apply a grabbing Chin Na, you often need to fake or strike the opponent first to set him up for your controlling technique. For example, you can use a punch to cause your opponent to block, and when he blocks, you quickly grab his hand and use Chin Na to control him. Alternatively, you might kick his shin first to draw his attention to his leg, and immediately grab his hand and control him. *

However, for levels up to Black Sash - Level I, we will focus on non-striking Chin Na techniques (while keeping in mind that strikes may indeed be necessary, depending upon the situation). Please practice the techniques slowly at first and gradually increase speed and realism. Injury to your training partner is unacceptable.