Yes the push hands is good. We do single hand, double hand and 'freestyle'. I am pretty useless at it yet but getting better. It is far easier to be tense than to relax so I need to work at it somewhat - Luckily son #3 is also advanced in the art and better at the push hands than me. Probably because he is more relaxed butthat's another story;-) I like the idea of a son teaching me something anyway - sort of payment:-)

And, yes, it is quite martial when you break it down. Sun style is considered to be the most martial and is also a bit shorter than Yang - The movements are quicker and there are only 97 of them as opposed to 108 (I think) in traditional Yang. It helps to learn the form when you know the intent and which way the energy should be directed. Main thing is - as I am sure you already have - find a good teacher!

Good luck.

:D