WingChun Articles
5th August 2006
Questions: Their Relevance and Irrelevance
Often students feel the need to ask questions during training but, on occasions questions asked prematurely i.e without the time spent the training the specific material can become difficult to answer and when answered, difficult for the student to understand. Why?: without the necessary skills learnt through continuous training a student does not develop the knowledge and understanding to see an exercises specific relevance to their progression and this can then cause doubts and "questions" as to it's importance. Until time has been spent in training there can be no relevant question, and eventually through your training you will find your own answers. Time in class can be eaten away by not so much questions but what turn in to mini debates explaining details students may be able to learn when they are ready and able to understand. For example a common question is to do with the relationship of chi sau to fighting. Chi sau is a sensitivity drill giving the practitioner an ability to sense their opponents movement once engaged in "fight" it is not until many, many hours of training that this becomes apparent. I could ask a scientist to tell me his "secret" work and would be told "I can tell you but, you won't understand it". Why? Because, I have no knowledge of science to help me understand the "secret". So, these are our irrelevant questions for during a class but can be discussed before/after the session when there is plenty of time for explanation.
Relevant questions are of course an assistance to the lesson as they not only benefit the asker but others with a similar problem i.e. is this position / angle / technique correct. These can be answered quickly and quickly understood. One of the best ways to learn is to train back down the syllabus with students less experienced than you. This clarifies what you know and secures you in the knowledge that you possess all the components and structure of your previous grades.
Ultimately you want to be the best that you can be. We all have two eyes, two arms, legs, etc. so, it is just your perseverance, dedication and trust in your instructor who has spent 1000's of hours of learning and training (previously doing exactly what you are now) that will help you to reach your peak and ultimately through your commitment you will find your answers.
Sifu Tony Hollander © 2008