Wing Chun

Suzanne and me with Sifu Fong

In my experience training and teaching multiple martial arts, few are as misunderstood as Wing Chun. While a strict expression of Wing Chun's practical application leads one to believe it is necessary to utilize the classical hand trapping positions of the system, in truth it is the concepts of Wing Chun that set it apart from countless systems.

The center line runs down your body from head to groin equally separating right side from left. Every combative system on the planet is slave to this line, observing it, crossing it, controlling it, you name it. It doesn't matter if you're doing weaponry, grappling or striking. Why? Because every system is expressed with the human body and observance of the center line (or lack thereof) increases the chances for success or failure of any technique. Jab too far off line and you are open for a right hand. Off center elbow position in the Thai clinch will get you a weak defensive position and a knee to the ribs. You get the idea.


Despite every martial art being subject to the center line, the only art I've seen that goes out of its way to define and teach the importance is Wing Chun. Brought to the general public's attention by Bruce Lee in his films from the late 60s until his untimely death, the principles of Wing Chun will aid your training in any realm of combative study.

Lucky for me Guro Inosanto introduced me to Sifu Francis Fong about 15 years ago and I've been lucky enough to train with him over the years at his academy in Atlanta, GA. In my opinion Sifu Francis has taken JKD concepts to a whole new level. In addition to his jaw dropping hand speed, power and sensitivity drills like Chi Sao, Sifu Fong ties up, does takedowns, submissions and anything else you're likely to fight with. All because he applies the principles of Wing Chun to his understanding of the human body and the multiple combative systems he knows.

I get to Atlanta 3 or more times a year. I'm heading there tomorrow in fact for Sifu's Wing Chun Association Instructor Camp. Every time I train with Sifu Fong he gives me a new way to take concepts and apply them to my training in Wing Chun and every other art I train and teach. This approach does not give a handful of specific techniques, but rather opens the mind and allows for a deeper, broader understanding of combat. And in my opinion is priceless!