What is Wing Chun?

Wing Chun is a highly effective self-defense system. It combines the essence of Tai Chi Chuan with the linear movements of European Bare knuckle Boxing. Best known for its superior hand techniques Wing Chun is usually considered a close range fighting art. Although closer inspection reveals that Wing Chun is effective at any distance that matters. Many people are also surprised to hear that Wing Chun was the art that Bruce Lee learned. A broad overview of the primary training methods of Wing Chun is outlined below.

SIL NIM TAO

Sil Nim Tao translates as "little idea" and is arguably the most important component of the Wing Chun system. Traditionally the first form learned it allows the student to begin developing the Wing Chun stance and basic positions. Practice of this form is a lifetime pursuit and should not be taken lightly.

CHUM KIU

The "seeking the bridge" form allows the student to develop chasing energies. Turning, stepping and chasing footwork are all added with this form. At this stage learning to pursue and stay with the opponent while maintaining proper posture begins.

BIL GEE

The thrusting fingers form "Bil Gee" is usually taught last among the three empty hand sets. This form gives additional techniques allowing for both 180 degrees of movement as well as grappling. Many of the techniques in this form are considered emergency techniques applied to an attacker already delivering violation energies.

WOODEN DUMMY

The wooden dummy (Mok Jong) helps to train the intricacies of striking. Footwork for the dummy is divided up into three sections circle footwork, turning footwork and shifting footwork. Each section of the dummy allows the student to practice the flow of encounter, negotiation and finish. Training on the dummy is essential for the proper delivery of force. In addition the dummy develops proper time space management, speed and chi gong. The dummy is a unique and essential part of the Wing Chun arsenal.

CHI SAO

Translated, "Chi Sao" literally means sticky hand. Chi Sao is the core of partner training in Wing Chun. The sticky energy developed through the practice of Chi Sao allows for the proper timing against violation energies. The saying goes never box a boxer or wrestle a wrestler this gives him the advantage. However, when someone touches you they are doing Chi Sao and the advantage goes to Wing Chun.

WING CHUN WEAPONS

Wing Chun utilizes both the long pole and the butterfly swords as its primary training weapons. The butterfly swords train techniques which can easily be applied to any object on the street which can be held in one hand. While the long pole techniques can be applied to objects which require the use of both hands. Wing Chun weapons are usually introduced after the student has become proficient in the other areas of Wing Chun.