The synthesis of punching, kicking and throwing techniques in sanshou affords an immensely versatile system of strategy. In general, the simple strategy for beginners is kicking for long range, punching for short range, and throwing at body contact.

The sequence usually starts with kicking or punching which requires a distance for acceleration in order to effectively deliver the power. The momentum that accompanies kicking and punching may result in body contact. While actions are usually stopped when the opponents are clutching onto each other in boxing, taekwondo, karate, and kickboxing, however, in sanshou, the action will continue into the throwing (shuai) stage. When opponents attempt to unbalance each other and in the meantime, to prevent themselves from being thrown, grappling techniques naturally become the next skill of application. Of great importance is to be able to "borrow force to exert force" (Jie li shi li) which requires sensitivity and a capability of yielding, neutralizing, and leading in response to the aggression while controlling the opponent’s body momentum.

Sanshou emphasizes the strategy of "start later, but reach first" (Hou fa xian zhi). For instance, round kick (bian tui, whip leg) takes a longer time to reach the target because of its curvilinear trajectory, while side kick (ce chuai) takes a shorter time because of its linear trajectory. Side kick is thus favored to counter round kick as well as other curvilinear techniques.

Throwing can be effectively performed following aggressive kick catching (jie tui) which makes the opponent think twice before performing any kick. Unbalancing through leg grabbing (bao tui) can be a powerful technique against good boxers. Just as in most other combat sports, a sequence of combined fake, real, and effective counter techniques that is both physically and psychologically challenging often proves to be a key to the victory.