For those interested in this more basic level of martial art, and orthodox yiquan theory, the technical points worth noting are:
1. In 'polite' push hands people usually don't release energy to a full degree hence, when they 'push' they often just 'brace' - i.e. step back with the back foot, take the weight, and give a little push. But for genuinely pushing people in the yiquan method with full power, allyour energy must issue in the direction you're pushing, and it must be instant - so, you can notice that I don't step back and brace. You can try it on a bag - it's not incredibly difficult, but it's harder to do at first than you think and requires practise. This allows you to just suddenly 'burst' forwards, without the half a second lost stepping back.
2. There is a slight but significant difference between pushing when your hands arealready on the target, and pushing when they aren't. Try putting your hands on the bag or opponent and releasing energy in the same way as when you hit from even a slight difference, and you will feel the difference. You will probably also notice the 'bracing' problem kick in here.
With a little practice, you can find both ways and naturalise them. Most techniques should be practised in two versions - one with hands already touching, one where they're not, otherwise, you'll only be able to do one properly.
3. The hardest thing to get is the correct relaxation. Try to relax your shoulders and arms more, and you should beging to feel more power.
4. Making it work in practise is significantly harder than making it work on a bag.
For those interested in the practical method of yiquan, and for those interested in stuff that seems to you to be much higher level, good luck - I hope you find what you're looking for.