Wing Chun weapons may have been a practical form of combat in the old days, but do these weapons truly relate to modern fitness training for martial arts? The simple answer is yes they do.
The Centre Line Theory of Wing Chun is considered a major component of this martial art style, but why is it so important to understand? On a simplistic level, the centre line theory provides a guide to inflict damage on the human body. Yet on a conceptual level, the centre line theory offers a strategy for fighting and even self defence.
San Shou (also known as San Da) Kickboxing could be considered the modern application of traditional Chinese martial arts. San Shou (San Da) Kickboxing is not a martial art in itself, rather a format of fighting that combines striking with punches, kicks, elbows and knees for professional fighters, with wrestling, takedowns, throws, and leg catches. This style of fighting truly encapsulates all ranges of stand up combat, which transfers nicely to self defence application.
Martial arts training teaches true values for living a well rounded and healthy life. Not only does practicing a martial art instils the right values and attitudes that are conducive to Self Defence, but you'll improve your fitness and well-being.
Often underutilised in self defence, the basic Turning Punch in Wing Chun combines a number of essential concepts for this martial art. Not only is this movement very effective in self a defence, but if applied correctly it is extremely powerful, even for small people.
Is it necessary to understand the differences between a Boxing or Karate style punch and a Wing Chun punch? The simple answer is yes. Think of each type of martial art punch as a different tool for self defence.
Correct fist formation is essential for self defence in any martial art. After all, if you cannot form a proper fist you will have a less effective weapon to defend yourself with. Correct formation of your fist will develop the muscularity and strength of your forearms, which not only improves Lap Sao in Wing Chun, but also makes your punch heavier on impact.
Training your martial arts skills on focus pads offers a realistic form of target practice for martial arts, self defence, or even fitness training. Hitting the pads and heavy bags offers not only a great martial arts workout that improves your fitness, but also develops co ordination, timing, and long distance power for martial arts students.
In Wing Chun physical speed of movement is emphasised in order to develop power. The simple analogy being that a dead weight travelling at high speed will cause a tremendous amount of damage on impact. Bare in mind that Wing Chun is a traditional bare fist style of Chinese martial arts.
To a certain extend Wing Chun could be considered an ambidextrous fighting style. Although, this sounds hard to learn, the benefits of being versatile enough to use both sides of your body will be of great advantage in a self defence confrontation.