Great posts everyone..........
PlumBlossomPalm-I believe it's called "8 chain" because there are 8 linked punches (the first set of three that are done in ma bu are counted as "one" strike). If you count that as one, the total number of strikes is eight.
There is a huge difference in a beginner who does this exercise and an advanced practioner. The newbies make it look like a karate form, while the experienced make it look like "continuous 4 direction boxing". I have heard many complain of this exercise (too karate like, etc) but those who say such things have never seen it done in the fluid, constant motion manner in which it should be performed.
I think that it is a great exercise for beginners. Thanks everyone for their insights into this seemingly simple exercise.
"Do not follow in the footsteps of the men of old, seek what they sought"