Foshan Wing Chun - Foshan University of Science and Technology | Basic

Wing Chun Kung Fu is a highly scientific and artificial martial art. Its strength lies in close combat. The punches are fast and the defense is tight, with agile horse stance and quick up-and-down movements. It is balanced in both offense and defense, emphasizing a combination of hard and soft techniques, with minimal energy consumption.

Wing Chun Kung Fu has developed its own three sets of techniques and wooden dummy practice, including the basic concepts, the practice of seeking bridges, and the application of fingertip strikes. It incorporates sticky hand exercises to train the sense and reaction when making contact with the opponent's bridge hand. The force used in Wing Chun is known as "inch power" (寸劲), which is used both offensively and defensively. In terms of theory and principles, Wing Chun focuses on the centerline, foot placement, facing the opponent, balancing both sides, and responding quickly with minimal movement.

Below are the key characteristics of Wing Chun:

1. Theory and Mindset: (1) Centerline Theory: The centerline runs from the top of the head to the tailbone. By connecting the centerlines of both the opponent and oneself, it forms a plane that represents the shortest distance for attack. By following the centerline and moving along it, Wing Chun aims for the most effective and direct attack or defense.

   (2) Facing the Opponent (Chao Mian) and Following the Opponent's Shape (Zhui Xing): Wing Chun aims to face the opponent directly. If the opponent moves around, we adjust and continue to follow their movements, minimizing the angles from which they can attack.

   (3) Placing the Feet Theory (Mai Zhen): Wing Chun positions the feet along the centerline to minimize the distance for both attacking and defending.

   (4) Collecting the Hand (Shou Zhen): After an attack or defense, the hands return to a neutral position, making it easier for follow-up actions without any unnecessary movements.

   (5) "Come and Stay, Go and Send" Mindset: When the opponent attacks, instead of just neutralizing the force, Wing Chun practitioners aim to retain contact and control, redirecting the opponent's energy.

   (6) "Slap Hand and Straight Punch" Mindset: When the opponent removes their hand from contact, practitioners quickly use the "slap hand" technique to initiate a straight punch.

   (7) Simultaneous Attack and Defense: Wing Chun emphasizes counterattacking the opponent while defending, changing the dynamic from passive to active.

2. Inch Power (寸劲): This is a short but explosive force used to strike at close range with devastating impact. It is developed through exercises like small thoughts (小念头), stretching punches, and sandbag training.

3. Sticky Hand Practice: (1) Develop sensitivity and reaction to the opponent's bridge hand contact. (2) Train to create and find gaps in the opponent's defense. (3) Develop the ability to use both hands simultaneously and multitask. (4) Practice Wing Chun's core mindset principles like "Come and Stay, Go and Send," "Slap Hand and Straight Punch," and avoiding unnecessary defensive movements. (5) Practice offensive and defensive techniques and combinations. (6) Train the coordination of hand techniques and foot stances.

Wing Chun focuses heavily on sensitivity and reaction, which is faster than visual reaction. The sensation from contact with the opponent's bridge hand travels through the spine and allows for a quicker response. With practice, the sensitivity and reaction will be honed.