Tag: Ip Chun

Safety and Security: 4 Ways to Intercept a Sudden Attack

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

Intercepting is always better than blocking. We are going to look at what the definition of intercepting is before we give some practical ways of accomplishing that. Webster’s dictionary defines intercepting as “to stop, seize, or interrupt in progress or course or before arrival”. The best way to view intercepting is that last part of the definition, “interrupt”. Not only is the attack itself being interrupted, but the timing of your opponent should be as well. And that is the key, the timing. When timed properly your opponents attack will be nullified and you will be primed to launch a second attack (in theory before his second) or you would have already hit him. Now that we have addressed what intercepting as a concept let me provide you with 4 Ways to Intercept your opponents attacks using Wing Chun.

4 Ways to Intercept: Option 1 – The Intercepting Fist

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The first technique we will go over is the Intercepting Fist. Made famous by Bruce Lee, this technique is typically taught fairly early on in student’s training. The idea is to counter the opponents punch with a punch of your own. By keeping your elbow down and pressing from center mass you are elbow to offset your opponents strike. This can quickly be follow up a flurry of punches we refer to as Chain Punches. Keeping the strikes down the center you are able to maintain control of your centerline.

When you substitute a Paak Sao with an intercept you will find it can be much easier to deal with a second and third punch. Part of this is due to the fact that you are returning the opponents punch with a punch. They will be slightly less confident with their next punch as opposed to when you simple deflect their initial punch with a Paak. Second to that, the Intercept automatically covers your opposite side incase of a second attack. Whereas the Paak leaves you more open. 

4 Ways to Intercept: Option 2 – The Turning Punch

The Turning Punch basically the other side of the same coin referring to the Intercepting punch. The Intercepting fist is typically used to refer to the lead hand being used with the lead foot to interrupt the opponent. This is illustrated in the first photo to the right.

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Turning punch is simply using the the same structure but opposite hand to accomplish the same goal. Since the punch is coming from the back foot, the turning punch will have more power and torque then the straight Intercepting. However, much like the Paak punch, if not used properly, can leave you open on the inside for an attack.

 

4 Ways to Intercept: Option 3 – The Tan Sao

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The Tan Sao is a very effective and sound way to intercept a strike. You have not only nullified the attack but you have also almost guaranteed a strike of your own. Tan and the actual punch are the exact same shape. The only exception is what the hand is doing at the end. You can see here in the photo the Tan Sao is an hand open towards the ceiling. By opening the hand the focus of the technique is diverted to the elbow. The Punch itself can be delivered to the head, or for a taller opponent you can strike the ribs.

Since the Tan extending through the strike towards your opponent, it makes stopping a second strike fairly straight forward. You can transition to a Paak Punch if the Strike is down the center. Or, you can continue pressing forward with a Bui Sao against a hook punch.

4 Ways to Intercept: Option 4 – The Paak Punch

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Our last technique for this article on intercepting attacks is the Paak Punch. Clearing the attackers hit with Paak good, but combining it with straight punch is better. Since the Paak is coming off of the back foot there is a lot of power and structure with this counter. The Paak is also quite diverse.

When used, you can use the Paak to press forward and crush the attackers structure. You can guide his hand downward if he is taller. You can also use it to setup a baiting for the second punch.

Bonus: The Paak Punch is also a great attack to throw in a kick along with it. By doing this you maximize Wing Chun’s ability to use multiple weapons at once. You can see here in the photo, Sifu Justin used the Paak, Punch, and Kick. He uses the kick just before the punch clears the arm to finish the attack.

Final thoughts

When it comes to Intercepting timing is everything. You can have GREAT structure, technique, and power. But, if you do not practicing your techniques in LIVE sparring scenarios you will get hit no matter how good you think you are. There is no substitute for hard work, and good punches to the face. Train hard and never give up.

Why Choose Sifu Och Wing Chun

Practicing provides numerous benefits, including:

  • Physical Fitness: Enhance strength, flexibility, and endurance.
  • Mental Clarity: Develop focus and discipline through structured training.
  • Self-Defense Skills: Learn effective techniques for personal safety.
  • Cultural Enrichment: Gain insight into a centuries-old tradition.
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Join Sifu Och Wing Chun today and embark on your journey through the world. Fill out our contact form to discover why we are your best choice for Wing Chun Kung Fu and martial arts training in Lakeland, Florida!

Related articles on the Sifu Och Wing Chun website:

Empower Yourself: Experience Personal Growth Through Chinese Martial Arts
https://sifuochwingchun.com/chinese-martial-arts-lakeland-florida-kung-fu/

Unlock Potential: The Incredible Strength of Wing Chun Martial Arts
https://sifuochwingchun.com/the-strength-of-my-wing-chun/

Unlock Potential: The Incredible Strength of Wing Chun Martial Arts

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

The Strength of My Wing Chun Journey: By Ryan Beck

The Strength Behind Wing Chun: Techniques to Empower Your Martial Arts Journey

Wing Chun is different for each practitioner: how they move, when they flow and even the strength used. Each person is trained and trains differently; they all have different weaknesses and advantages. There are skills we all must learn and others that must be figured out individually.

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Gains can come fast while mastery takes years to achieve. After approximately three years, I have seen these gains made by myself and others which means you can gain these as well.

My Wing Chun Journey: The Start

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When I first started training with Sihing Garret in Tampa, I was the only regular student. His boxing background, plus his time training in Wing Chun under Sifu Och really set his skills apart. After the first class, I told myself, that no matter what, I would commit to training for at least one year, at that point I would re-evaluate. Not even two months later, I came to the realization that Wing Chun was in my soul and I was hooked. With any form of martial arts, there are typically two types of gains: physical and mental.

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Physical goals are the easiest to see. I noticed I was moving faster, able to go longer, and could even tell my eyes where processing information faster. Slowly, was becoming a better fighter. I believe this primarily has to do with my instruction, training and dedication. These physical gains are generally noticed fairly consistently by all. You get out what you put in. These are the gains that pushed me through my first year.

Wing Chun Journey: My Second Year

When my one-year marker hit, I looked back on all the gains I had made. The surprising part about this reflection was the mental and lifestyle achievements. These types of gains are much harder to identify. I saw my temper cooled, I was eating healthy and living a healthy lifestyle. The craziest part was that these changes, these gains started to become evident, when I saw the people around me changing as well. They were growing through my growth. My wife and our two daughters started eating healthier, drinking water and working out. In addition, my wife and our girls are on their own martial arts adventure too.

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The only limitation Wing Chun has to personal growth, is people’s willingness to grow. It’s not always easy to train. Let’s be honest, it’s hard work. After a long and hot day at my job, I don’t always want to train. We can always find a reason. I will never forget my Sifu once said, “instead of an excuse, just say it’s not a priority.” This is something I strive to apply to all aspects of my life. The interesting part is that once I am at class, I am always glad that I went. This is true in life, it’s never as bad as we thought it was going to be.

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Wing Chun for Life: I will never quit.

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Over the course of my Wing Chun journey thus far, I have found three strong reasons why I will never quit Wing Chun. The first reason is my family, I see the change in them and they look to me for guidance in life. Without martial arts, I am not sure I would know what direction to take them. The second reason is the tradition and culture, I have always been interested in the history and where Wing Chun comes from – not only the fighting, but the lifestyle as well.

Wing Chun: A History bigger than myself

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There is such a history, that every time I Chi Sao, I feel like I am a part of something bigger than myself. The third and final reason I will never quit Wing Chun is the personal and physical aspect. I have grown tremendously since starting Wing Chun. The best part is how much growing I still have left to do. I know I can be faster, I know I can be even more technical and I know I have a lot more to learn and for me this is exciting!

My Wing Chun Journey could be yours

Gains can always be made in Wing Chun as long as goals are being set and matched, as long as a person is dedicated to train and as long as the community is strong. Wing Chun is limitless! If I can train hard even when I don’t want to or kick open new doors when I am too tired to, then there is nothing I can’t do, in life or in Wing Chun.

Start your Journey with Sifu Och Wing Chun

Are you ready to discover the transformative power of Wing Chun? Begin your journey with Sifu Och Wing Chun today! Fill out our contact form to start your journey and take the first step towards enhancing your martial arts skills and personal development.

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A Letter To Myself-Marcus Morales

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

In this Article: “A Letter To Myself-Marcus Morales”, Marcus tells us his story of how he started his Wing Chun Training. We hope you enjoy this little story!

A Letter To Myself-Marcus Morales

Do you know the feeling you get when you are about to do something and you do not know what the outcome is going to be? It happens all the time. For example, imagine it is the middle of summer, you are at the local pool cooling off along with a bunch of other people, and suddenly you decide you want to dive off the platform and continue to develop your patented cannonball dive. There you go, walking past everyone and you climb to the first level.

But, You realize that there are steps that will take you to the second tier and you follow them up another level.Then you see there is yet another set up steps and they take you to the very top platform. Somehow, you have managed to get up there, where no one else dares to go. There you are, standing at the highest level at the public pool with your lucky red bathing trunks. The ones with yellow rubber duckies on them. You look down and see that you are on the edge, staring at the crystalline blue water, deciding whether or not to jump.

The Jump

That is exactly how I felt when I was standing outside the door of Sifu Justin Och’s Martial Arts school. I was standing there, watching everyone doing all kinds of crazy things. Trying to decide whether to step inside or just keep walking. I must confess that I only knew a little about Wing Chun. I consider myself to be a bit of a tough guy; grew up in some tough neighbor hoods. I also served my country for six years and finished my obligation with an honorable discharge. During that time I even came back from a major injury in the Army. Suffice it to say, I thought I was tough enough. But something kept urging me to step inside, so I did.

In the Water

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Once inside, I was intimidated by all the people there, knocking each other around. I stood there, at that ceramic tile square at the entrance to the school. And the, Sifu came along and welcomed me in. He was not what I expected. Truth is…I didn’t know what to expect. But he walked up to me, with a thousand-watt smile on his face, and made me feel right at home. I didn’t know this until later, but he had just finished wrestling on the floor with some of his students.

One more thing I did not expect. I was still a little defensive, mostly because I didn’t know much about how things worked. All Sifu did was invite me to join in on the class he was conducting and then he would get back to me to see whether I wanted to be a part of it, so I accepted the invitation. I have not left the school since.

Learning How to Swim

From the very First minute you become a part of the school’s family and its culture. I was automatically being grabbed and tossed. I even received a stiff punch to the face, and just like that I was absolutely drawn to the scene. Somehow, despite all the punches and tosses, the sore bones and sprains, I have become more and more involved in the art. Sifu is there, with a smile on his face, teaching you everything you need to know about the art. And this is not a man who is boastful or driven by a sense of superiority. No… this man truly loves to tach, he wholeheartedly love the art, and he absolutely enjoys his students.

Sifu Och

One other thing that Sifu Och strives for at his school is the development of a community within the school. He is constantly coming up with events for the school, activities designed to strengthen the camaraderie within the student, to help foster positive relationships between the students, ones that they can potentially carry along wit them throughout their lives. I have come to believe that his desire to develop and nurture these positive relationships is at the core of the most successful martial arts school. Creating bonds not only between student and teacher, but between students, strengthens the school itself.

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Sifu’s Students

The students at the school are without a doubt the greatest assets Sifu has at his disposal. From the Green Sashes all the way to his instructor level students. They understand Sifu’s philosophy when it comes to helping everyone who start training. They

 

 

Sal Ficaro: Ageless Training

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

Sal Ficaro came to Sifu Och Wing Chun about one year ago. He tried one of our classes and got very frustrated with himself and decided to leave. Sifu Och was able to talk to him and arrange for private lessons instead to help him through those first steps of learning. When I took on Sal and his private lessons I knew this would be a difficult task. Sal was not used to Wing Chun and it’s movements. However, I knew that it could be done because Sal had the right mindset. In this article, Sal Ficaro: Ageless Training, Sal will tell a little bit about himself and his training here.

Sal Ficaro: Ageless Training

“Hello, my name Salvatore Ficarro I am 58 years old. I’ve been training at Sifu Och Wing Chun it’s been a learning process. Timothy Kittelstad is one of the trainers at this studio and he is absolutely wonderful. Even though the journey has been tough I absolutely love it.

If anybody is in the 40s or 50s age and would like to learn some self-defense they should not hesitate. They should come down to Sifu Och and start their own journey! Your age shouldn’t hold you back. I’m 58 but that is just a number. I don’t allow that to be an excuse to not learn something new. Life can be very hard. And many times you want to just give up. But the wonderful things in life take some time to learn.

When you are working hard to learn something you may fall a little short. And when that happens, as long as you get back up and come back stronger that day was a success. There are days I feel I’m only at maybe 60% where I should be. But if I leave at 61% that means I am improving. Then next time maybe I’m at 70% or 80%. As long as you work hard and improve, no matter how small the improvement, you will always be able to grow. The staff at Sifu Och Wing Chun are the best trainers I’ve ever seen. They are their to help you. All they want is for you to be your best. And I want you to succeed. I feel if you give it a try your will fall in love with it.”

Age doesn’t Stop Hard work

Sal shows that now matter your age you can accomplish anything with hard. Day after day Sal comes into class and puts in a hard days training. Starting from private lessons he has been able to work himself into the group classes. The most impressive thing about Sal is his determination. He doesn’t care about belts, or awards, or flashy techniques. He simply wants to know that he can take care of himself. Each day he comes in and builds himself from the last class.

Age is just a number. Everybody has hurdles they have to learn to overcome. Everyone has their own life story. Once you learn to accept your story and do the best you can with what you have you can start to really learn new things.

Instead of complaining about his age, or “not being able to move like he used to”, Sal trains his body to move the best it can right now. Because that’s what matters, the now. Not the past, not the future, but right now. What are you doing right now to make a difference in your life? If nothing than you should find the reason why. And then find a strong reason why you need to change that. Sal is a great example of someone who tackles life no matter what happens.

 

Wing Chun Entry Techniques

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

The ability to close the distance with an opponent is essential to any Wing Chun practitioner. You must be able to quickly respond to an opponents attack and shut them down to avoid follow up attacks. Different ranges call for different responses. That being said we will cover a few Wing Chun Entry Techniques here in this article. Before reading this article we suggesting checking out our previous article Wing Chun Vs Jab, Cross, Hook Takedown Combo. We explain the difference between committed and non-committed strikes which is essential to your training.

Hand Entries

Paak Slip

In our previous article Wing Chun Vs Jab, Cross, Hook Takedown Combo we touch on the idea of using the Paak to simply slip off the first punch. Connected is a video of Master Sifu demonstrating this technique. He explains how to utilize the Paak to deflect the initial blow and then glide off into a strike. A very effective and quick technique.

Paak Punch

The Paak Punch is a very effective combo to use. Instead of trading blow for blow with an opponent, the Paak Punch allows you to strike and defend at the same time. When countering a cross or straight punch this is a definite must. You are able to either crush a punch and counter above it with a punch of your own. Or, you can slip the punch and strike the ribs. Either way you are able to immediately counter straight punches and close the distance.

Paak into Bui or Tan

If an opponent does not throw a committed strike it can be very difficult to throw a counter. In this case it would be prudent to defect the first punch with a Paak and then counter the second punch. Two great choices would be either a Tan Punch or Bui Sao Punch.

A Tan Punch would be a great choice against any sort of straight punch. Since the Paak would have simply deflected the first punch you can use this as a set up for the second punch counter.

If he throws a haymaker or wide hook the Bui Sao Punch would be the best choice. The curved shape of the Bui Sao would match the trajectory of the hook allowing for maximum protection.

Kick Entries

Shadow Kick

If facing an opponent that moves a lot, pushing off the front foot, a Shadow Kick may be a option to consider. Our article Kung Fu Kicks goes into more detail about this kick. The idea is to crush into your opponents leg with a stomping motion. Typically aimed to blow out the knee the lead hand will typically drop as a result opening up an nice window for an attack.

Crescent Kick

Finally, the Crescent Kick. One of the most effective ways to use this kick is to the ribs when they extend their punch. This has the same shape as the Shadow Kick but instead of going down it strikes forward. You must thrust your entire body behind the kick. When this is done the head usually comes down as a result of the body caving into the kick. This allows for an easy strike to the head.

The Key to Closing the Gab

All of these techniques are futile if you do not close the distance with the right timing. You can only develop timing with hours of practice. Doing techniques in lines are a great way to build the structure for them and speed. However, if you do not consistently keep up your training your timing will be off an no amount of skill will help you if you do not time it correctly.

Afraid to Get Hit?

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

We see it all the time. Someone will come into a class with the goal of learning realistic self-defense. However, they have no intention of getting hurt in the process. And then the first class happens. They realize that goal is a little bit more difficult to achieve than they had imagined. So what is at the root of this fear? And how do we combat it both mentally and physically? In reality, true martial art injuries are less common than that of football and hockey players. But the martial arts is still viewed as the more dangerous activity – Still Afraid to Get Hit? Let’s unpack that.

Afraid to Get Hit? Mental Preparation

Fear of getting hit is a common enough mindset. It most certainly makes sense: why would I intentionally do something that would hurt me? We all have built up layers of protection in our minds that keep us from doing things that will hurt us. The body has countless mechanisms in place to protect itself and is reluctant to consciously allow harm. But when it comes to martial arts, we have to weigh the risks against the benefits. Do I want to (a) be able to defend myself when I really need to or (b) avoid the possibility of immediate injury in my martial arts class? Choosing option A is the first step toward changing this mindset and moving toward being an effective fighter. The second step is a bit more complicated: accepting that you are, beyond a shadow of a doubt, going to get hit. A lot.

Hopefully your school implements safe sparring practices like gloves, a mouthpiece, and head gear – and doesn’t glorify students beating each other into a pulp. But if they do implement safe sparring practices, be rest assured that there is little to no risk of serious injury. Minor cuts and bruises yes, muscle strains and sprains maybe, but serious injury – unlikely.

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Afraid to Get Hit? Physical Preparation 

After you have accepted that you will be getting hit, the best way to prepare for that is a lot of practice. Practice in the air, against a punching bag, and with a partner who is willing to take it slow until you get the technique. Learn the defensive techniques and practice them until they are a part of your muscle memory and engrained in your subconscious. Practice until you no longer have to think about which technique to use, because you already know.

Time

No one is going to be a great fighter their first day, like everything it takes practice; but if it isn’t the right kind of practice, it could only make it worse. Say you are practicing with someone who always throws their attacks in the same sequence. Or they aim toward the side of your head instead of straight at it. Or obviously telegraphs their moves. The amount of progress you make working with this person is going to be considerably less than working with a good partner.

Fear

Ultimately, it is possible that your fear of getting hit is actually a fear of failure. A fear, not of getting hurt, but of losing and being considered lesser than your opponent. When I first started sparring, I was a purely defensive fighter. This was solely for the reason that I was afraid to try and attack. I was afraid to attack because I knew at first I would fail. In my mind trying and failing was worse than not trying at all. For other people, they fear the pre-punch anticipation. Meaning, not knowing when or how they are going to get hit. But if you ask any instructor, they would rather see someone who puts in the effort and fails over someone who never gets hit any day.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes When Practicing Kung Fu Kicks

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

There are many kicks used in a fight. Some more useful than others. In this article, Kung Fu Kicks, we will show some of the kicks used at Sifu Och Wing Chun. We will review the Inside and Outside Shadow Kicks, Tong Kick, Half Crescent, and Side Kick.

Kung Fu Kicks: Unlocking the Secrets of Dynamic Power

Before going into the the specific kicks let us touch on Wing Chun as a system to set the groundwork. In short, Wing Chun’s goal is to end the fight as quickly as possible. Every strike intent on crushing the opponent. Understanding that goal the kicks that we choose to utilize fall into the place.

Inside Shadow Kick

One of the most useful kicks to use is the Inside Shadow Kick. Kicking the opponent in the knee is one of the quickest ways to end the fight. With this Shadow Kick, considerable force can be driven through a target at a downward angle. The setup (implied in the name) is that the kick is done in the shadow of your hands. As a result, an opponent will find it difficult to avoid or stop this type of kick. The reason is because it is usually done in unison with the hands. Not only can it be used to attack it can be used in defense as well. It can be used to stop low kicks to the leg.

Outside Shadow Kick

Equally important, not all enemies or targets will be directly in front of you. The Outside Shadow Kick allows you to hit targets off center. They can also be used to block kicks depending on the angle. Furthermore, one advantage of this kick in particular is it can be used to drive out the support leg of an opponents kick. Jum Saos together with a low shadow kick can block roundhouses and blast the supporting leg.

Tong Kick

The Tong kick is similar to a front kick. Uniquely, however, it thrusts in upward diagonal angle. Can be used for multiple targets, but it’s primary hit is the Xiphoid. Combined with a Double Jum Sao, this is a great choice to counter a roundhouse. In addition, it can be used used to strike the ribs or inside of the thigh.

Half Crescent Kick

The Half Crescent Kick similarly takes the same shape as the Inside Shadow Kick. The difference is it drives forward as opposed to down. This kick is usually delivered to the ribs when a punch is thrown. Countering a Jab or Cross style punch with a Crescent Kick is a great option. It is unexpected which it was lends to it’s usefulness.

Side Kick

Overall, the Side Kick is one of Wing Chun’s longest ranged weapons. One of it’s main uses is delivering a powerful strike to the side when turning to face the opponent may not be available. Whether it’s a question of speed or restriction doesn’t matter. The side kick allows an immediate response to someone coming from the side. It can be done two different ways:

Static, fired directly from your stance:

or with a skip. The skip allows for a the distance and power to be increased by swinging the back foot foot. The base is re-established closer to the target and momentum is gained which increases the power.

(To view a video of the skipping side kick click the following link: Skipping Side Kick Video. )

The key to your Kicks

One thing all of these kicks have in common is what part of the foot is going to be used to strike the body. If you read our article “Fighting Footwork” you will see how the body needs to be aligned through the heel for structure. With the correct structure your power drives from your legs through your heels for maximum damage. This is similar to a person doing a heavy squat. Moreover, to support the weight the heel must be used. Piggybacking off of that concept is another, focused energy. If you take the energy you would use to slap someone and applied it to a needle, you will easily penetrate the skin. Just the same with your kick, if you drive all your power through your heel your damage is focused through that one point as opposed to spread through whole foot.

The Art of Kung Fu Kicks

Kung Fu kicks represent a balance of strength, precision, and practicality, making them invaluable tools in martial arts training. Unlike kicks from other disciplines, Kung Fu emphasizes efficiency and adaptability, ensuring that every move is both powerful and purposeful. At Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy, our training focuses on these principles, helping students develop kicks that are not just showy but effective in real-world scenarios.

Whether you’re new to martial arts or looking to refine your technique, mastering Kung Fu kicks can elevate your skill set and give you a unique edge in both self-defense and combat situations.

Key Characteristics of Kung Fu Kicks

Kung Fu kicks are distinct in their approach and execution. Here’s what sets them apart:

  1. Direct and Efficient Movement
    Wing Chun Kung Fu, in particular, values kicks that conserve energy while delivering maximum impact. This directness ensures minimal exposure to counterattacks.
  2. Low and Practical Targets
    Kung Fu kicks often aim for low targets such as knees, shins, or groin areas. These targets maximize effectiveness while reducing the risk of imbalance.
  3. Body Alignment and Balance
    Proper alignment and balance are critical. Each kick integrates seamlessly into the practitioner’s stance, maintaining stability even during rapid movements.
  4. Adaptability Across Ranges
    Kung Fu kicks are versatile, working effectively in both close and mid-range combat. They complement strikes, blocks, and grappling techniques, making them a well-rounded component of any fighter’s arsenal.

Types of Kung Fu Kicks

Several kicking techniques are integral to Kung Fu, each serving unique purposes:

  1. High Front Slanted Kick (Tong Kick)
    A straightforward upward kick aimed at an opponent’s chin or midsection. It’s excellent for closing distance or disrupting an attacker’s stance.
  2. Side Kick (Yeung Geuk)
    Known for its power, the side kick can target an opponent’s ribs or legs with force, pushing them off balance.
  3. Sweep Kick
    A low, circular kick designed to trip or destabilize an opponent. It’s an excellent tool for setting up follow-up attacks.
  4. Roundhouse Kick (Waai Chek Geuk)
    Delivered with a rotation of the hips, this kick generates significant momentum and power, making it a formidable strike.

Training Kung Fu Kicks the Right Way

Mastering Kung Fu kicks requires disciplined training and attention to detail. Here’s how Sifu Och Wing Chun ensures students achieve excellence:

  • Proper Technique Development
    Our instructors focus on teaching correct foot positioning, body alignment, and follow-through to maximize power and precision.
  • Strength and Flexibility Training
    Kicking effectively demands a combination of strength and flexibility. Our classes incorporate targeted exercises to build these attributes.
  • Realistic Application
    Students practice kicks in simulated combat scenarios, ensuring they understand how to execute them under pressure.
  • Safety First
    While learning powerful techniques, we emphasize safety and control to prevent injuries during practice.

The Role of Kung Fu Kicks in Self-Defense

Kung Fu kicks are not just tools for demonstration—they’re practical in real-world self-defense situations. Low and direct kicks are ideal for disarming opponents without overcommitting. When executed properly, a single well-placed kick can neutralize a threat, giving you the opportunity to escape or counterattack.

At Sifu Och Wing Chun, we teach our students how to integrate kicks seamlessly into their defensive strategies, making them prepared for any situation.

Sifu Och Wing Chun: Your Path to Mastery

When it comes to learning effective Kung Fu kicks, Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy in Lakeland, Florida, stands out as the best choice. Here’s why:

  • Certified Wing Chun Expertise
    Our lineage is rooted in authentic Wing Chun, ensuring students learn time-tested techniques from credible instructors.
  • Comprehensive Training
    From foundational skills to advanced applications, our training programs cover every aspect of Kung Fu kicking techniques.
  • Real-World Application
    We prioritize practicality, teaching students how to use kicks effectively in both controlled and unpredictable situations.

With Sifu Och Wing Chun, you’ll gain not only the physical skills but also the confidence to defend yourself and others.

Start Your Journey Today

Master the art of Kung Fu kicks with Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy. Take the first step toward achieving power, precision, and practicality in your martial arts training. Fill out our contact form to schedule your first class today!

How to Perfect Your Kung Fu Kicks for Combat

Related Articles

  1. “Building Striking Power in Martial Arts”
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/building-striking-power/
  2. “Martial Arts Techniques and Training: Wing Chun Kung Fu”
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/martial-arts-techniques-and-training-wing-chun-kung-fu/
  3. “Proper Energy and Pressure in Wing Chun”
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/proper-energy-and-pressure-in-wing-chun/

In conclusion, focus your power and train your structure and you will be able to develop kicks that will drop any opponent you face.

Wing Chun Defense: Why It’s the Ultimate Self-Protection System

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

Wing Chun Defense Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide

The first few months of a martial artist are crucial to their success. Instructors must work to instill confidence from day one. The student must learn to trust not only their instructors but also the techniques they are learning. If a student knows what he is learning is practical and useful from the start he will stick around for the fine tuning of those techniques.

At Sifu Och Wing Chun we want to help students learn a basic Wing Chun Defense right from the beginning. To help cover some of the most basic attacks we teach 3 defenses right away: Bui Sao, Tan Sao, and Gan Sao.

Bui Sao

Haymakers (wide hooks) are some of the most common attacks you will see on the street. Without training the body’s natural tendency to draw power will be to twist. This results in a chain and ball effect on the arm with the punch being the ball of course. While these can still do damage they can be easily defended with proper training. That is why one of the first techniques we teach to new students is the Bui Sao. The deflecting hand is shaped as if you were blocking light from the sun. Palm facing away from the body pressing from the elbow. The palm will be about forehead height and the elbow in line with the trachea. This provides a wall of cover with the forearm.

Tan Sao

One of the more famous moves in Wing Chun is the Tan Sao. When teaching it to children we call it the “pizza hand”. This is due to the palm facing upward with the arm extended outward. The Tan Sao is used primarily against straight punches. It deflects punches off the centerline either to the inside or the outside opening up your opponent for a variety of follow ups. You can view a video of the Tan Saos on our Instagram by clicking here>Tan Saos.

Gan sao

Used against nasty body shots or uppercuts is the Gan Sao. Translated it means “low plowing hand”, this technique is very effective for defending the lower half of the body. To shape your Gan Sao simply reach your hand out in front of you as if you were shaking hands with someone. Your hand should end up in front of your belly button and your elbow about a fists distance off of your rib cage. This allows your ribs to be covered and consequently, your hand is now fairly close to your opponents body. You are now prepared for an easily follow up such as a palm to the ribs or an uppercut to the face.

Basic Wing Chun Defense Striking

All three of these defenses have something in common; they are paired with a straight punch. As opposed to many other styles most defenses in Wing Chun are combined with some sort of attack. In this case it is the straight punch. There are other variations off of these basics but for beginners we use the punch to begin with. The straight punch is delivered with the fist held vertically at a 45 degree angle. The reason for this is mainly structure. There is also a nice perk associated with it; it fits nicely under the chin to strike the side of the neck. As a result you can easily deliver a crippling blow to an opponent by simply changing the angle of your fist.

Conclusion

To Summarize, the Bui Sao, Tan Sao, and Gan Sao are three effective and important attacks you must know for your self defense. They allow you attack and defend simultaneously. These are so useful that they were borrowed by many Krav Schools to be incorporated into their system as well. Train these hard and you will have a good starting point.

Related Articles

  1. Mastering Wing Chun’s Centerline Theory: The Foundation of Effective Defense
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/wing-chun-centerline-theory/
  2. Improving Your Wing Chun Skills with Consistent Training
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/wing-chun-training-tips/
  3. Understanding the Importance of Fluid Movement in Wing Chun
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/wing-chun-fluid-movement/

We actually address these topics and discuss them in the class, allowing the kids to take part in the conversation with regard to bullying. This lets the subject become less personal, while remaining perfectly applicable to them, making it more of a shared experience and lessening any feelings of pain from past experiences.

Sifu Och Wing Chun, Official Banner, Ving Tsun Association, Florida, Southeastern USA, Wing Chun, Ving Tsun, Florida, group, best wing chun, best wing chun teacher, wing chun sifu, best wing chun,

Are you ready to start Mastering Wing Chun Defensive Techniques

Take your martial arts skills to the next level? Join Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu today and experience the power of real-world self-defense training. Fill out our contact form and start your Wing Chun journey with the best in Lakeland, Florida!

Martial Arts Philosophy-Chinese Versus Japanese Part 2

Posted on by Ben Devris

Japanese Martial arts

In our previous article, Martial Arts Philosophy-Chinese Versus Japanese Part 2, we covered the Chinese side. In this article we will go over Japanese martial arts. Japanese martial arts bases its principles heavily on certain beliefs—religious or not—depending on the style. Shintoism (an ethnic Japanese religion) is a strong fundamental in the art of Aikido. Even some of the religious beliefs from China managed to merge its way into the countries martial arts; Zen (Chan) Buddhism became a respected principle in the art of Bushido (way of the warrior) and Budo (martial way). For most Japanese martial arts the same purpose applies to those of Chinas: focusing development of “The Trinity” (body, mind and spirit).

Shotokan Karate

Shotokan Karate, developed by Gichin Funakoshi, bases its precepts closely on Zen Buddhism and Bushido. From these two philosophies Funakoshi laid out the twenty principles of Shotokan philosophy. Later the five Dojo Kun was developed by the Japan Karate Association. Under no circumstance should one of the principles be valued more than another. By taking those into account, and through years of practice, a karate practitioner (karateka) will be able to develop a calm and opened mind and achieve confidence, humility, wisdom etc. In addition to that they will hone the body to become harmonious with the mind which will give a “subconscious” control over the body’s movement. The body performs the techniques while the mind remains serene. This will then have a direct proportional effect on the spirit as well and will create a wholeness of one’s self.

Aikido

Some of Zen’s religious principles are also structured in the art of Aikido though the bulk of it comes from the countries traditional religion of Shintoism and its strong belief in spiritual essence. Aikido, founded by Morihei Ueshiba, centers its techniques on the flow of ki (also known as chi or qi in Chinese culture) that translates to “life force” or “energy flow”. Ki is universal—everything possesses it—and it can be a means to transfer external energy internally. Internal ki is channeled throughout the body by the mind that in turn channels the power. Only when mind and body are harmonious can this be achieved and used to redirect and neutralize the energy of opposing force.

The art of Aikido also believes in the value of self-discovery and self-development and discourages any form of hierarchy. It’s not an art used to distinguish which is superior over the other; it is only used for means of protection. This also applies to winning and losing which is why the art disapproves contests and competitions.

Modern Martial Arts

In conclusion to both articles we want touch on modern arts. Both Chinese and Japanese arts share a common bond of self development at their core. Through training practitioners sought enlightenment. In modern training the focus is not so much on self development as it used to be. Many arts now serve to prepare students solely for competition. Instead of helping student’s become better people they only focus on techniques and tactics to win medals.

Although schools still do exist that instill strong principles, it is not part of the modern martial art culture. Not even mentioning what can be called “black belt factories”. Schools that seek to do nothing but move student’s through for financial gain. These types of schools will wave flashy promises of black belt awards if x amount of money is paid. Or some will simply skim the surface of an art so that students can breeze through the material. As a result many “black belt” students come as a result.

Whatever you train, Chinese, Japanese, or any Modern art you find, seek to grow as a person.

Ip Man Fact or Fiction, Florida Wing Chun

Posted on by Sifu Justin Och

Ip Man Fact or Fiction, Florida Wing Chun

WARNING SPOILER ALERT for those who have not seen the film Ip Man, this article touches upon some important scenes. To preserve the amazement of watching the film for the first time, do not continue reading, unless you want to know the truth now.

Sammo-Hung-Donnie-Yen-in-Ip-Man-2
From the Movie Ip Man 2, Combat Scene
Wing Chun Kung Fu reflex fighting

Ip Man fact, a blockbuster from China that hit that the global cinemas and the martial arts world by storm. An instant cult film among martial artists with fight scenes so exhilarating it makes anyone want to take up Wing Chun. But how much of the film is historically accurate and how much is Hollywood imagination?

In the film Ip Man fact is seen teaching an entire cotton mill of workers Wing Chun. In actuality Ip Man taught only a small group of students, mostly the children of the mill workers, in the back of the mill for around a year. Ip Man fact did not charge fees for his classes and there was believed to be around 6 consistent students. One of his students, Chow Guang Yiu, was the son of the mill owner and fabled to have the most potential. However, he later quit Wing Chun and martial arts all together instead choosing to follow in commerce.    Ip Man never worked in a coal mine, as the movie portrayed. During the Japanese Occupation he was a well respected police officer. During his time in the police force, the incident where Ip Man broke a gun really did happen only a thief was holding the gun instead of a fellow officer as the film portrayed. As some legends would have it, Ip Man broke the bullet chamber of the gun with sheer finger strength.

The climatic battle between Ip Man and General Miura was made up for Hollywood audiences too. We should remember through that the movie Ip Man was meant for entertainment. A certain creative license is taken to exaggerate and speed up events to keep an audience interested. Like the Bruce Lee movies that proceeded it the Ip Man fact movies promote and popularize Wing Chun Kung Fu to the masses. Ip Man’s son Ip Chun was an on set advisor to the film. He was pleased with the portrayal of his fathers’ life and struggles.

The film followed an authentic timeline of Ip Man’s life. His beginnings in a wealthily childhood, escape from Communism and the Japanese occupation. Overall the film captured the essence of Ip Man fact as a great fighter, humble, courteous and a faithful practitioner of the ancient Chinese arts in tradition and honor.

Ip Man Fact or Fiction, Ip Man’s life was fact and the courses of the events throughout his life and use of Wing Chun to defend and protect are all true.  How those events are interpreted by Hollywood may be adjusted but the man you must look at the facts of his life.

The movie is directed by Wilson Yip with the battle scenes choreographed by Sammo Hung. Donnie Yen, who portrayed Ip Man fact, had never taken Wing Chun before this role! Donnie Yen approached Wing Chun like skilled game of chess, countering your opponents move as you move in. To get a feel for the role as Ip Man Donnie Yen looked at the nature of the film. Taking place in waring and pre-war times Wing Chun is a very practical, grounded style. Each move and fight took on those elements. No wires or swanky acrobatics were needed to demonstrate the realistic power and effectiveness of Wing Chun.

Elizabeth D. – Wing Chun student and martial art practitioner

Want to join? contact us Today;https://sifuochwingchun.com/contact-sifu-och/

Or… Just come on down to our location, we are always training and welcome you to join!

For more info watch this videos

 

images from the Ip Man 1 and Ip Man 2 movies

Wing Chun Kung Fu: The Best Self-Defense in Lakeland

Posted on by Sifu Justin Och
Downtown Lakeland Martial Arts Sifu Och’s Wing Chun Kung Fu Studio

After many years of serving the Lakeland, FL community, we are excited to announce that we have recently remodeled our studio specifically for our self-defense and martial arts clients! This upgrade enhances the experience for all our students, providing a more modern and functional environment to train and grow.

2008 Newly remodelled – downtown lakeland martial arts school

We have proudly been providing Wing Chun Kung Fu and realistic self-protection in the Lakeland community since 1996, and we are here to stay. Over the years, we have continually committed to offering top-tier training, ensuring our students receive the best martial arts experience possible. With our Adult and teen program constantly growing and started 2011 we have one of the most elite specialty afterschool programs the lakeland communtiy has ever seen.  Providing experts in their field, from professional martial art instruction (wing chun kung fu, chinese jiujitsu, boxing, karate and taekwondo) plus by teaming we have teamed up with Just Dance.  Their professional dance competition instructors (salsa, ballroom, hip hop, girls ballet, and more) theatrical performance, culinary, art, etiquette and on staff 35 year polk county tutor for homework help. 

We have remodelled our studio and created a whole new environment for you and your family.  Classes for adults and teens as late as 6pm, 8pm and 9pm at night or as early as 7:30am-8:30am or 11:30am-12 on tuesday’s and thursdays!  Kids martial arts classes and lakeland afterschool pick up from 2:30pm-5:15 with late pick available till 6pm.

NEWLY remodelled lakeland martial art studio afterschool kids, teens and adults

Unlock Your Martial Arts Potential in Downtown Lakeland

Our school contains what you need to get to your next level of fitness and self defense.  We use Shaolin Wooden Dummies and rice bags. For traditional training, and MMA bags for our MMA workout class, so you can get fit without worrying about ring fighting.   Chinese Lion Dance performances and Wing Chun Kung Fu demonstrations every two months, training for kids as young as 3.5 to 4 years old and adult training well past retirement, we have a class for you.

We have been providing public self defense seminars, confidence and protection techniques for local women’s batter and refuge shelters, realistic protection and martial arts for clients that drive all the way from Bradenton Sarasota, Tampa, Brandon, Bloomingdale, Riverview, Plant City, Winter Haven, Orlando, Auburndale and of course Lakeland, Fl.  Wing Tsun, Ving Tsun or Wing Chun.

This Chinese martial art in Downtown Lakeland Fl can provide you and your family with serious self defense discipline.  For people that want to get in shape and gain real self defense for their family.  Whether you are looking for a a understanding of the martial arts or you want a martial art that allows you to use intense striking and trapping techniques during close range in-combat scenarios, Wing Chun Kung Fu in downtown lakeland is your centre for training. Wing Chun involves stick defense, knife defense, gun defense and extreme hand to hand combat.

“Join the Best Downtown Lakeland Martial Arts School Today!”

Wing Chun martial arts started more than 300 years ago as a closely-guarded secret. Not too many people know that the popular Bruce Lee was himself was a student of Ip Man the modern founder and Grandmaster who taught the young Bruce Lee the art of Wing Chun.Bruce Lee had only two formal martial art instructors, both of whom were experts in Wing Chun Kung Fu: Ip Man and Wong Shun Leung (the combat fighter of Ip Man). After the 2010 release of the Ip Man movies from Hong Kong. The world was finally given a glimpse of Wing Chun fighting in action. This not only showcased its power but also highlighted its precision, leaving a lasting impression on martial arts enthusiasts worldwide. Wing Chun now spreads across the globe. This martial art once remained limited to a few dedicated, worthy, and fortunate students.

Men and women, no matter their built can learn Wing Chun. You might be surprised to learn that five Shaolin masters created this discipline. With the most influence coming from a woman named Ng Mui, a Buddhist nun. She taught Wing Chun to Yim Wing Chun. A female student after whom the martial art was named.

“Train with the Best in Lakeland: Wing Chun Kung Fu”

If you have seen the one-inch punch of Bruce Lee, then you have already witnessed a powerful example of the close-range force of Wing Chun. Students are initially wary of learning Wing Chun. As they fear it is weak simply because it was influenced and created by women. Nevertheless, once they discover that this very discipline is behind Bruce Lee’s iconic moves and his creation of Jeet Kune Do, they begin to see its true power. Additionally, when they realize that many martial arts styles have tried to adopt elements from this quick and direct system of combat, they start to think differently. More and more students are seeking realistic street self-defense and are being encouraged to enroll in Wing Chun classes.

This self-defense system involves effective and direct counterattacks, developed to protect the weak and small against the brute strength of larger opponents. Wing Chun uses essential techniques to keep you safe and protected.  Wing Chun focuses on the use of quick combat, stance, structure and balance to increase a fighters power and attacking ability. Be just like a bamboo tree, deeply rooted and yet it easily yields and becomes flexible. When pressure is applied, the bamboo tree yields, bends, and redirects force around it. It is not weak because of this; instead, it becomes stronger. This is why in China, the Wing Chun system of self defense combat is now mandatory anti-terrorist self defense training for all airline stuartists and crew members.

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Join Sifu Och Wing Chun and Start Training Today!
Take the first step toward mastering Wing Chun Kung Fu and Sanda Kickboxing in Downtown Lakeland. Fill out our contact form and experience the benefits of martial arts training for yourself.

Sifu Och Wing Chun, Official Banner, Ving Tsun Association, Florida, Southeastern USA, Wing Chun, Ving Tsun, Florida, group, best wing chun, best wing chun teacher, wing chun sifu, best wing chun,

Sifu Och Wing Chun Related Articles

  1. “Wing Chun Kung Fu: The Perfect Martial Art for Self-Defense”
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/wing-chun-kung-fu-the-perfect-martial-art-for-self-defense/
  2. “Benefits of Sanda Kickboxing at Sifu Och Wing Chun”
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/benefits-of-sanda-kickboxing-at-sifu-och-wing-chun/
  3. “How to Choose the Right Martial Art for Self-Defense”
    https://sifuochwingchun.com/how-to-choose-the-right-martial-art-for-self-defense/

Come down and see our new remodelled facilty and while you are there feel free to try out a class.

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