Home › Encyclopedia › Wing Chun
Wing Chun 詠春 Wing Chun
ChinaEast AsiaStrikingSouthern Chinese (Nanquan)Shaolin legend
Close-range southern art built on centreline theory, simultaneous attack and defence, and sticky-hands (chi sau). Ip Man taught it in Hong Kong; student Bruce Lee helped make it world famous.
Key characteristics
- Centre-line theory
- Chi sau (sticking hands)
- Economy of motion
Forms & curriculum
- Siu Nim Tau
- Chum Kiu
- Biu Jee
- Mook Yan Jong (Wooden Dummy)
- Luk Dim Boon Gwun (pole)
- Baat Jaam Do (knives)
What training looks like
Classes typically combine stances and footwork (basics), conditioning, solo forms (taolu, kata or hyung) and partner drills. Sparring is introduced gradually, usually with protective gear.
Questions to ask a school
- How is sparring introduced and supervised?
- What do a beginner's first three months look like?
- Is there a family, health or seniors class?
- How are injuries prevented?
Quick facts
| Origin | China |
|---|---|
| Era / founder | Mid-1800s Foshan (Leung Jan); legend: nun Ng Mui |
| Family | Southern Chinese (Nanquan) |
| Type | Striking |
Related philosophy
- Ting Jin (Listening Energy) 聽勁 – Sensing an opponent's intention through touch; developed in push hands.
- Chi Sau (Sticky Hands) 黐手 – Wing Chun partner reflex training.
Where to learn
- Ving Tsun Athletic Association – Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
- Hong Kong Chinese Martial Arts Association – Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
Watch 影片
Videos belong to the channels named and are shared for education. Figures In Space is not affiliated with them.