What's so great about WingChun? Why should I check it out?
WingChun is a way to develop your innate abilities. It makes you better at everything you do. First and foremost, we help you realize your potential by learning to deal with conflict effectively. Everyone has found themselves in uncomfortable and threatening situations. Emerging safely should be based on knowledge and skill, not pure luck. Our comprehensive training programs have been developed to ensure a clear and simple learning process.

But I'm really busy. Is it really worth my time?
You make time for things that are important and beneficial to you. Although you may take it for granted, Personal Safety is definitely a priority. It's well worth a few hours a week to achieve the confidence that comes from becoming proficient in Self-Protection. And it's not just about Self-Defense but health and well-being too. By testing yourself in class, you come to know and trust your own abilities. Then stress, fear, and tension automatically diminish. There's really nothing to lose in trying and potentially a lot to gain.

I've never been very coordinated or athletic. Is WingChun difficult?
WingChun is an accessible system. You'll find that you pick up the fundamentals quickly because they're based on natural motions - extending your arm, taking a step, shifting your weight. We begin with these simple elements and gradually advance into various combinations, with and without a partner. Through repetition you will eventually feel a rythym to your movements that will internally guide your progress.

Ok, I'm curious. Can I watch a class?
All are welcome regardless of experience. In order to have a meaningful and worthwhile visit, it's important that you participate. Don't be afraid of looking stupid or feeling awkward. Since we're all in a process of learning, mistakes are expected. Everyone is here to help each other improve, so there's no pressure to be perfect. That means we're always approachable and make sure you're comfortable by giving you personal attention. Come by and see for yourself. You'll find your FREE Introduction to be interesting and informative.

So how long will it take me to get good?
As with all things, results primarily depend on how much time, energy, and effort you're willing to consistently invest in yourself. Other factors such as inborn talent and previous training are quite secondary. Because WingChun is practical and uncomplicated, you will easily get a feel for it. Yet to really embody true skill requires a great quantity of high-quality practice over time. You will make maximum progress by participating in all our training opportunities: making Regular Classes, taking Private Lessons, and attending Special Events. Another crucial variable is having good partners to practice with, which is why we recommend that you try out with a friend. It's not possible – nor nearly as fun – to go it alone.

Fighting doesn't interest me. Why should I train Self-Defense?
Self-Defense is actually not about fighting. On the contrary, it's about examining and preventing conflict. Unfortunately, crime and violence is a part of reality, whether you readily acknowledge it or not. We teach a strategy of active avoidance when possible and direct resolution when necessary. When you are forced to confront escalating agression and probable harm to yourself or others, it's better to react skillfully than to hope for a pleasant outcome. It's too late to prepare when you suddenly find yourself unable to escape a dangerous situation. Learn a method that empowers you to act before fear.

Do you have belts and uniforms?
Our Academy has a skill-based graduation structure. Its purpose is not to enforce a hierarchy but rather to keep track of your progression through the curriculum. Through regular evaluations we ensure that you can demonstrate the standard set of reactions required for each Student Level (SL) program. Rather than belts, we use small colored patches sewn onto the sleeve to designate proficiency. For students, a simple uniform consisting of a white WingChun T-shirt and black pants is required.

Do you practice sparring?
WingChun is not a sport which imposes rules differentiating gender, rank, and weight class. These distinctions are not made in a real-world setting, nor in our training programs. Our goal is for you to successfully apply your abilities under any condition, regardless of whether you are female or male, small or big, old or young, atheltic or not. This is achieved through basic exercises and combat applications that develop assertive reactions to diverse attacks – from grabs to elbows, from kicks to throws. Diligent training creates flexible and skilled responses that are transferrable to unpredictable Self-Defense situations. Importantly, all this occurs in a controlled, safe environment.

How much does it cost?
Tuition rates vary depending on the number of weekly classes you attend. We also always have some Specials. When you come in, don't forget to ask us about our various payment options and discounts. If you really want to learn, we will definitely find a plan that works for you.

Sounds great, I'm interested in checking out a class. What should I do?
The current schedule and location is posted on our Classes page. Feel free to drop by for an FREE Introduction at your soonest convenience. We'd appreciate you first contacting us before you do so. Just send us an email from the Contact page or give us a call at 510.665.1853.