Xu Yu-sheng (1878-1945) had studied since 6 years old withi his brother Cha Quan and Tantui since a young age and when he was 20 studied with Liu De-kuan. He also studied Taijiquan with Yang Jian-hou. In 1912 along with Wu Jian-quan, Zhao Xin-zhou, Geng Cheng-xin, Guo Zhi-yun, Ge Qing-wu, Ji Zi-xiu and Heng Shou-shan established the “Beijing Sports Research Society”.

It is said that Xu Yusheng held Song Shu-ming in high regard because after an exchange of hands, Xu was no match for Song Shuming (at the time Song Shuming was about 72 years old whilst Xu Yusheng was 33). During the short time in Beijing (~1912-1916), Song Shuming is said to have given pointers or guidance to Xu Yusheng and his associates in the Beijing Sports Research Society.