What is WingChun?

WingChun (pronounced "wing chun") is a direct and effective martial art that was developed to enable the smaller/weaker person to overcome the stronger.

How does it work?

WingChun students defend themselves by using simple techniques as well as leverage and angles to turn attackers' strengths against them.

Do you need to be fit?

No, most students notice an increase in fitness, joint flexibility, and general strength after just a few weeks. WingChun trains you to apply targeted relaxation and tension to specific muscles groups. Not only does this reduce stress and hypertension, it allows for quicker reactions and improves overall muscle tone.

Is WingChun good for self-defence?

WingChun is trained only for self-defence rather than for competition.

Do I need a licence like most other Martial Arts?

Yes, a licence is important for insurance cover and also for a grading record. It costs just £35.

Is WingChun good for women?

WingChun is thought by some to have been developed by a woman. This folktale does not detract from the fact that WingChun with it's precise use of angles and muscle groups makes it possible for the weaker/lighter to overcome the stronger.

What can I expect in the training?

The classes are fun and challenging! Instructors impart information in a friendly environment where the students engage in a wide variety of drills, exercises, and strength training routines.

• Forms training - which teaches concentration, mental focus, and precision of body movement.

• Reflex training - used to improve hand-eye coordination and timing.

• Chi-Sau - a unique exercise to WingChun which uses tactile reflex development and muscle memory to "program" the limbs to react to the pressure of the opponent's attack.

• Lat-Sau - free-fighting training, where the student learns to use the movements of the forms and chi-sau for actual fighting.

• Footwork and kicking drills - provide for mobility and agility in attacking and defending.

How long will it take to get good?

Like everything in life you get out what you put in. every lesson attended will help you towards your goal. You need to train a minimum of once a week to effectively progress. And, with the opportunity to train up to 4 nights a week this is easily achievable.

Am I too old for WingChun?

Never, you can train at any age and into old age.

How much does it cost?

Your first lesson is totally free so you can experience the class and see what WingChun has to offer you. You will be invited to attend the first lesson of the evening, as this will be more than enough for your first experience. There will be a lot to take in visually, mentally and physically.

Once you have decided that you want to continue costs are:

£45 per month. This gives you two 1 hour lessons back to back on one evening per week. This offers you 8 lessons per month and 10 lessons per month in every third five week month.

£55 per month. This gives you two 1 hour lessons back to back on two evenings per week. This offers you 16 lessons per month 20 lessons per month in every third five week month.

As well as this as a licenced member of the International Academy of WingChun you can train at all the other IAW-UK clubs totally FREE. This then enables you to train up to four evenings per week. Just give the instructor a courtesy call to say you are coming along.

I have trained with another Wing Chun or Martial Art organisation; can join at my "level"?

We do not discriminate against previous martial arts background or grade levels. But, you need to train as a beginner and come with an open mind to fully appreciate how we teach and why we teach in the way we do. If you attend many classes and can display skills then you can progress quicker through the system.

What if I cannot get to class on time?

It is better to be late to class than not to make the lesson at all. We accept that people have busy schedules. All we ask is that once you arrive for a class you finish that particular session so that the training partner is not left mid lesson.

What should I wear?

For your introductory lesson, wear jogging bottoms, a t-shirt, and trainers. All jewelry that can be readily taken off will need to be removed. Once you decide to join the group class, there is a required uniform that consists of the official WingChun t-shirt and black training trousers.

I am not very flexible!

None of the positions in WingChun are unattainable through regular class attendance flexibility increases.

I have trouble with co-ordination!

We do a variety of exercises and drills aimed at improving co-ordination and balance.

Is there a lot of fitness training?

Some, but again through regular class attendance you will develop the muscles you needed for WingChun. You will also becoming fitter and more toned.

Is there a grading syllabus?

Yes there is a 12 level syllabus.
1-4 beginner program (basic self defence)
5-8 intermediate
9-11 advanced Pre-Primary (level 12)

We hold grades every four months so you can really see how you are progressing.

Back to top