This is my first time replying to a message and this a good topic for me. I have been doing chucks for about 7 years now and over time I have hit myself many times sometimes lightly, many times not so lightly. I have an excellent instructor has helped me develope my techniques. I practice the lissajoudo chux system. Most importanly the thing to watch out for is safety. You can get yourself pretty hurt doing chux. The best thing for you is find yourself an instructor first. If that doesn't work, you can purchase videos on the lissajoudo system or any other system that suits you. I will have to tell you the lissajoudo system is very complex but is well worth the hard work. I would purchase a pair of foam chux first with the string, not the chain. Good luck on your search and remember, safety, safety....respond if you have any questions