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All newcomers are welcomed into the beginners
group for a compulsory 12 lesson introductory course during which time they are
taught the basics whilst encouraged to watch the main class train. There is no
uniform or formal training clothing required, training or jogging trousers, a
plain t-shirt/sweatshirt and training shoes are all that is required. Over the
introductory period beginners get are taught the basics whilst having the
opportunity to watch 12 typical classes, ask questions about all and any
aspects of the Wing Chun system, the Sifu (teacher), the classes etc.. At the
end of the introductory course newcomers can decide whether they wish to apply
to join the Association.
However during that same 12 lesson
introductory period the newcomer is the subject of a psychological and physical
assessment by the Sifu (teacher) and his assistants who listen to the
questions, review their attendances and punctuality, note the beginner's
respect (or lack of it) and assess their attitude and suitability. At the end
of the introductory course the Sifu will decide whether to invite and accept
the applicant as a member, student and ambassador to the school.
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"We teach by selection and
invitation only, we offer authentic Wing Chun taught in the traditional manner.
We set and expect the highest standards, teaching only respectful, disciplined
and dedicated martial artists who train hard with the correct mental attitude"
Sifu Shaun Rawcliffe -
Chief Instructor MWCK |
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A typical training sessions lasts for two
hours and covers all the four elements of the Wing Chun System:-
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Forms: |
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The solo
repetitive practice and performance of preset fixed sequence of movements that
teach and refine specific concepts, principles and techniques. There are no
direct applications of the movements of the forms but they do allow the
practicioner to strive for perfect positioning, and the closer the positions
when practicing solo, the better they will be when applying them on an
opponent. |
Application drills: |
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The constant repetition of individual
techniques or sequences, either solo or preferably with a training partner,
will build up confidence and understanding of the position, structure and
energy useage of each technique. "There is no substitute for mileage"
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Chi Sao: |
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Wing Chun's Chi Sao (Sticking hands) is a
unique interactive training method that develops structural awareness, correct
energy utilization, distance judgement and sensitivity so that you can learn to
feel what is happening, assess the situation and react accordingly. It develops
close range distance coordination, mobility, balance, timing, accuracy and the
correct use of energy. Chi Sao is often likened to a game of chess in that it
is about stratagy, skill and the ability to assess and constantly reassess the
on going situation, only in Chi Sao you monitor the proceedings through arm
contact. Chi Sao teaches the 3rd and 4th stages of self defence. The 3rd stage
being to trap or control their opponents hands, maintaining contact and
fighting range, the 4th stage is to remain in control of the situation until
you decide it is safe to change range and disengage contact. |
Fighting Application: |
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Unlike most
martial arts, in traditional Wing Chun there is no sparring (this is because
sparring involves two martial artists possibly of the same style trying to out
guess and out manouvre each other under a semi-controlled, rule governed
environment, which does not happen in the street). In Wing Chun we practice
'one attack-one defend' training. This is when one partner will attack using
any street-practical techniques, whilst the other employs his Wing Chun to
dissolve that attack whilst simultaneously counter attacking. Fighting
application teaches you to apply the techniques you have positionally refined
in the forms and structurally developed through drilling. Fighting application
teaches you the first and second stages of self defence: The first stage,
achieved through lots of practice, is to recognise the form and direction of
the attack, the second stage is to safely bridge the gap and make contact
defensively whilst simultaneously counter attacking. |