Why is Wing Chun an effective close-combat art for *realistic* fighting?
Wing Chun is effective for close combat because that is where all fights end up. Very rarely will someone allow you to “get ready” for their attack. Usually it is a flurry of fists that result in both parties getting injured. Wing Chun emphasizes close quarters awareness and touch reflexes. This skill translates to immediate reaction once a bridge has been made. Unfortunately, there are many Wing Chun schools that lose sight of this reality and start changing the system. Whether at a distance or up close, standing up or on the ground, Wing Chun principles are effective in self-defense. The most important skill, however, is the practitioners’ ability to do it with meaning. All too often people learn a physical skill without working on the mental skill required to be a fighter. How do you address use-of-force issues in your class — specifically, the legal dangers of striking someone first if they get too close? Well, the use of force is always the last option. You should exercise good c
