Looking for local self defence classes? Here at Leeds Ip Man Wing Chun we offer traditional kung fu classes. Wing Chun Kung Fu is a close quarter martial art based on economy of motion and minimum movement. It’s also Bruce Lee’s original martial art and the art taught to him by Grandmaster Ip Man.
Wing Chun‘s effectiveness lies in its simplicity. It was originally was developed by a woman (according to the legend). So it’s perfect for smaller people against bigger people! Wing Chun only has low kicks since a high kick would be considered an overcommitment, so it’s perfect for older practitioners. We have many students who have come from a Karate and Tae Kwon Do background. They have often come looking for a style they can practice into older age.
Wing Chun has a few differences from some other styles. We stand facing an opponent rather than side on. This is so we can protect our centreline and use both hands. In close quarter combat, it’s useful to be able to strike quickly without compromising position. We have a training tool known as chi sau or sticky hands. This allows practitioners to “play” a close quarters “game” which simulates many aspects of a fight but without the danger of being hurt.
This makes Wing Chun suitable to many people young and old
Self Defence Classes Near Me – Why Wing Chun For Self Defence
Wing Chun is a great style for self defence because it uses close quarters combat based drills which train reflex action. We link arms with our partners and attempt to land hits without compromising our own defence. This gives a duel purpose to training: defence and also simultaneous attack. This gives the advantage of speed using contact reflex. Because out hands are in contact with our partner’s hands, we can react much more quickly through “feel” rather than through vision.
When relying on vision to counter an attack there is a delay. But through kinesthetic awareness, which is part of the training in Wing Chun, you learn how to react spontaneously through reflex action. This can be done even without thought or vision once you learn to react appropriately through a chi sau (sticky hands) exercise.
For more information on classes visit our classes page or to watch a video click here.
