Training Methods

Training in WingTsun is accomplished in several ways.  The main methods are forms, drills, applications and chi sau.

There are three empty hand forms: Siu Num Tau, Chum Kiu and Biu Tze.  Siu Num Tau is the first form that students begin with and means "little idea form" in Cantonese.

Drills consist of footwork and strikes, geared towards building muscle memory and conditioning.

Applications are done with a partner.  They are generally performed at slow speeds first to ensure technical understanding and safety, but as students develop more control and experience with the applications, the speed is increased to more closely approximate actual attacks.

Chi sau is the distinctive training method of WingTsun.  Chi sau means "clinging hands" and is an exercise performed with a partner.  The purpose of chi sau is to develop sensitivity to your opponents attacks and exploit weaknesses, or holes, in their defenses.  Chi Sau is a very deep and broad exercise that puts all the other training methods into play (forms, drills, and applications).

With all training, safety is a top priority and all training is done at a level the student is comfortable with, and always under supervision by the instructor.