Siu Nim Tao

Siu Nim Tao is the first form of Wing Chun.

All the basic hand movements used in Wing Chun are contained in Siu Nim Tao. There is minimal leg movement in the form, the feet only move to set up the stance in the initial movement.

 

Siu Nim Tao practice:

  •  Defines the centre line and teaches students where their hands should be relative to it
  • Teaches students how to correctly execute Wing Chun strikes
  • Reinforces the correct elbow position
  • Facilitates force generation in short range Wing Chun strikes
  •  Used to develop forward energy.

 

Siu Nim Tao can vary significantly between schools.

 

 Students need a good foundation in Siu Nim Tao in order to be able to apply Wing Chun and be able to advance.

 

Chum Kiu

Chum Kiu is the second form of Wing Chun. It builds upon the basic principles and techniques learned in Siu Nim Tao. It builds upon arm and leg movements to create a coherent fighting system. It develops advanced stances and footwork, develops techniques designed to control an opponent and includes some simultaneous attack and defence techniques. It is a far more dynamic form. It also develops three new energies: forward momentum, pulling momentum and turning momentum.

 

l  Trains the body to move in coordinated unison to fully maximize efficient use while maintaining balance. These movements train the timing as control of the centerline is never given away.

l  Introduces kicking which allows students to deliver powerful, economical and efficient kicks while maintaining balance.

l  Develop unity of the stance and hand techniques to better develop body power.

 

 

Biu Tze

This form is different to the other two forms. It is comprised of fast pivots, powerful elbow strikes, fully extended arm movements and piercing strikes. Whereas the power in the other two forms is contained, the power of Biu Tze is evident. The aim is to extend the power generated from the other two right to the fingertips. Elbow techniques are also introduced in this form and techniques to counterattack when you are in a disadvantageous situation.

 

Wooden Dummy

The wooden dummy is an excellent piece of apparatus for students to develop, refine skills and coordination needed to become a skilled practitioner. It is the final stage after learning all three forms. It includes practically all of the hand and foot techniques.

The wooden dummy has three arms, one front leg and a rear leg (actually the trunk of the dummy). This is to represent a human body, in various positions, for training purposes. The dummy is not designed to strengthen limbs but to train the positions through coordination.

 

Six and a Half Point Pole

This form will help develop the back, shoulders, triceps, biceps, forearm, wrists and legs. The ‘quadrilateral stance’ is used therefore building up more strength and power.

The form is a series of seven moves: poke, spiral stick, lift, scoop, pull, whip and half-point block.

A firm understanding of the three forms and the wooden dummy is essential prior to studying the pole.

 

Eight Cutting Knives

This weapon provides training in mobility and further enhances precision in movement. The stance must be extremely mobile and agile.

The eight cutting knives are an extension of the arms and its main focus is the development of the practitioners wrist and forearm to increase flexibility, strength and power.