The Wing Chun System
Wing Chun is the complete self-defence system covering all of the 5 ranges in unarmed combat. In order of distance, the ranges are;
| Kicking | Longest unarmed range |
| Punching | Most common range for self defence |
| Elbows & Knees | Closer than punching range |
| Stand-Up Grappling | Shortest unarmed stand-up range |
| Anti Ground Fighting | Groundwork |
We begin by teaching punching range, as this is the most common range for attacks to begin. Our teaching system is constantly looking at realistic self-defence situations, and adapts to suit the needs of today's society. Remember, Wing Chun is self-defence, not how to fight in a ring, in competitions, or how to score points in sparring.
Wing Chun is a system based on concepts & principles, not hundreds of fixed techniques. These simple principles apply in all situations and can be learnt by anyone, without requiring a high level of strength, stamina or overall fitness to perform them. The basic concepts & principles are as follows;
How Wing Chun Is Taught
Learning Wing Chun Kung Fu is very much like learning a foreign language. Everything will seem odd & unfamiliar at first, especially as the Wing Chun principles are logical but not instinctive. However the training is designed to turn the logical Wing Chun reaction into the natural one. The correct movements begin to happen automatically, so when you need Wing Chun, you'll find it there without conscious thought.
However knowledge is not power in Wing Chun, and knowing what you should do is not enough. The student must train with a serious attitude in order to obtain the correct reactions. It's like a hammer hitting your knee - your reflex reaction is instant & automatic.
When beginning your Wing Chun training, you will start with the 1st Student Grade (1SG). This takes about 3/4 months to complete and provides you with a basic grounding in the Wing Chun System. Areas covered in 1SG include the following:
- Basic concepts & principles.
- Basic guard & awareness of range.
- Chain punching & the correct power line.
- Basic kick defences.
- Stances & footwork.
- Basic movement.
- The beginning (Sections 1-3) of the Siu-Nim-Tao Form (The 'ABC' of Wing Chun)
- Pre-emptive attacks against the most common attackers, right & left handed.
- Basic 'what if' situations, such as headlocks, grips, chokes, rugby tackles etc
In all Wing Chun training, beginner to senior, we have four stages that are inherent in the teaching of the system:
- Free yourself from your own strength. Power comes from relaxation
- Free yourself from your opponents' strength. Use of correct shapes & technique.
- Use your opponents' strength against them. Take them where they are trying to go.
- Add your strength to that of your opponent. Help them to defeat themselves.
After the first few months, we are convinced that you will be better able to defend yourself. In addition you will be more relaxed, co-ordinated, at ease in close quarter situations, and more aware of yourself & aggressive intent in others. However the complete system of Wing Chun Kung Fu cannot be taught in 3 or 4 months, which is why you are then able to continue training for as long as you wish.

