London classes
Please contact for details. A typical WT class consists of forms, technique/practical applications, chisao and fitness drills. Sparring is optional. Over 15yrs are welcome and regular sportswear is fine for classes. Please note times may be subject to change; please check this page or register for updates. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at info@londonwt.com; if you would like to register interest or be notified for updates please register here.
Butterfly knives
Curriculum
The WT curriculum consists of learning the building blocks that constitute the system, and then learning to apply these in self-defence. The building blocks of the system are the three principal ‘forms’ or sets of movements, namely: (1) Siu Nim Tau - the set of basic hand movements. (2) Chum Kiu - intermediate kicking and punching techniques. (3) Biu Tze - open-handed striking and elbow techniques.
Learning to apply these building blocks is taught through chi-sao or reflex reaction training and specifically in the form of a series of structured reflex reaction drills or chi-sao sections, combined with the practice of specific applications of those movements.
There is also a strong emphasis on fitness drills and cultivating striking power and accuracy, e.g. via focus mitt drills. Advanced practitioners practice advanced chi-sao, culminating in lat-sao or ‘free-fight’ training. In addition they learn the wooden dummy set and two weapons sets: the long pole and butterfly knives.
All students are taught to precisely control strikes before applying them in practice, and all classes take place under controlled conditions to avoid injury. Open handed and elbow striking is not taught until students have a complete control of distance. Most importantly, chi-sao, the essential component of WT, requires a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere for practice and tuition.
WT for Women?
WT is not only suitable for women, it was (according to legend) invented by a woman. Because of its emphasis on chi-sao (i.e. fluidity), application of controlled, targeted and open-handed striking techniques to the vital points, WT is arguably a very suitable choice for practical female self-defence. It is one of very few systems that do not rely on physical strength or size in order to defeat an opponent. Similarly, the use of open-hand and elbow striking techniques is far more appropriate for women than the use of closed fists and physical strength.
Grading
WT consists of 12 student grades and 12 instructor grades ('Technician' grades 1-4, 'Master' grades 5+). Students can expect to complete the student grades within a few years. Traditionally, students reaching 2nd level Technician (Instructor) grade are entitled to call themselves 'Sifu' and teach classes.
Disclaimer: This site refers principally to unarmed self-defence and takes for granted all reasonable steps have been taken to avoid a physical confrontation. This is not only because violence should be avoided where possible, but because withdrawing will usually be preferable to engaging in a no-rules fight whose outcome will likely result in injury to at least one party. This is particularly the case if weapons are involved: there is no way to reliably defend against any competent attack with a bladed weapon (refer to this for some prudent advice). This site also deals minimally with the psychological aspects of combat, which are at least as important as any knowledge of techniques in determining the outcome of any unscripted fight.
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Part of the Tam Yiu Ming Wing Tjun Kung-Fu Academy
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