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Question:  What are the relationships between the forms
in Wing Chun?
Answer:  The siu lim tau (SLT) is the fundamental and most important form. How well one learns this fundamental form affects learning all other forms and the art itself. Simply knowing the SLT’s visible sequences is the tip of a huge iceberg that must be explored. After the SLT comes the chum kiu form, which begins teaching the moving of one’s structure. The last empty-hand form is the “bue gee.” Additional footwork and Bue, or shooting, motions are part of bue gee.

The “mok jong” wooden dummy as designed in Wing Chun helps develop what has been learned in the hand forms and is an invaluable tool. The dummy form is derived from the three hand forms.

Wing Chun uses two hand weapons for training. One pair is the relatively short double knives, called the “bot jam do.” The long weapon is the “kwan,” or long pole. Both weapons add additional understanding of footwork and the development power.

Q:  How important is “chi sao,” the “sticky hands” part of the curriculum?
A:  Very important. Without proper Wing Chun motions, one cannot perform Wing Chun chi sao correctly. And without a lot of chi sao practice, one cannot get the right feel of the motions in applying them with the right timing.

Q: What about mixing Wing Chun with other arts? There is nothing wrong in engaging in other sports or arts.
A:  That may be true, however, Wing Chun has its own mechanics and dynamics and understanding them is important for development. The system is rich enough to provide lifelong learning. Some Wing Chun motions may appear to be similar to motions in other arts, but appearances are usually deceptive. The logic of Wing Chun motions are different from taiji, karate, taekwondo, judo, jujitsu, Western boxing and grappling. In-depth learning of Wing Chun addresses the functions of martial arts in its own way.

Q:  Are there different kinds of Wing Chun?
A:  Yes. However, the great Ip Man provided the modern critical mass of Wing Chun knowledge, which began to spread after the communist revolution in China drove many southern kung fu masters to Hong Kong and elsewhere.

Q:  Is Wing Chun an external or internal art?
A:  In training patterns, both elements are there. However, as with any great art, the distinction disappears with development.

Q:  Are Wing Chun schools “certified”?
A:  Ip Man did not create a Western-style franchise system. Neither did master Ho Kam Ming nor master Augustine Fong. Master Ho was a well-known and respected student of Ip Man until Ip Man’s death – a relationship of 15 years. Almost eight of those involved regular instruction in class and privately. Master Fong also was a regular student of Master Ho for about eight years and has stayed in touch with him since 1960. Sifu Joy Chaudhuri began learning Wing Chun from Master Fong in 1976 and remains in good standing with him. Chaudhuri teaches independently, as is the case in Fong’s Wing Chun federation outside of the headquarters in Tucson.

When appropriate, a Tempe Wing Chun student can obtain a certificate showing how long they’ve consistently practiced Wing Chun. No belts are given. Tempe Wing Chun remains a private, voluntary activity group and is not a corporate entity.

Q:  What are some of Tempe Wing Chun’s key characteristics?
A: 

1) The knowledge and personal instruction of the chief instructor. Kung fu is best learned from competent, personal instruction.
2) There is no gender, ethnic or sectarian bias in the school. We strive for a good learning atmosphere.
3) Acceptance for instruction is somewhat selective. Progress in Wing Chun involves seriousness in learning and personal responsibility for one’s actions, health and liability. Immature and antisocial behavior can adversely affect learning and therefore is highly discouraged.
4) Instructional costs are reasonable but are discussed only when an applicant appears to be a good fit for Tempe Wing Chun’s acceptance standards.
5) The emphasis is on Wing Chun skill development. Additional training for competitive activities can be provided on request. Wing Chun, when properly taught, is a great system for personal growth, defense and health.