I think the "problem" started when PH turned from formless and free to PH form as in TJQ"with hands/arms move in a specific pattern". I hate "traditional" TJQ PH, my mind becomes zombie like during such practice, with free/formless PH my mind stay alert.
As I mentioned different people have different understanding of push hands, what its used for and why....Form or Formless its the same.
My reference was in that some feeling its some kind of sportive combative exercise have essentially made a training practice into "the"
practice. Understand this but do not agree with it. Others might find differently
Just wanted to make my post a little more clear.
As an example in hop gar, they have what are called plum blossom post,,,stumps in put into the ground in a pattern designed to improve foot work and stepping that people practice on. The stumps can be different heights, in some cases falling off or missing a place to step, not a good idea.
The idea is to understand balance, timing, and stepping....this can be practiced alone or with a partner actively using movements against each other.
In practice its thought by such practices ones foot work, and stepping become more stable and quick...
Its never been made into a competitive event
as far as I know....