Tag: WingChun

Sifu Och’s Three Sections of Teaching

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

Wing Chun is not the easiest martial art to teach. The techniques come from a philosophy and list of principles. Due to this, the application of the techniques can be done with many variations that can be considered “correct”. These variations can cause added frustration. This is due to the details when it comes to teaching the variations. So that being said, you need to give ample attention to your students to genuinely help them understand, learn, and apply their Wing Chun. Sifu Och’s three sections of teaching his main classes help accomplish that.

Sifu Och’s Three Sections of Teaching

Beginner Class

women wing chun, kung fu, women wing chun class, high block, biu sau, punch, wing chun kung fu, lakeland, florida, usa, women wing chun kung fuThe beginner class is for those students that are within their first year of training. We typically have one main instructor on the floor who has trained for at least 3 years. He or she helps the new student’s build their fundamentals. The focus of this section of class is to build their immediate ability to stop basic, common attacks. In our article When to Learn Chi Sao & Wooden Dummy we cover in more detail what our philosophy is for that class. We want to make sure that when a student leaves our doors the are able to hand dangerous situations as quickly as possible.

Much like a building we must set the groundwork. Within someones first year of training we teach them the basics to a few things. First, we guide them through the basics of footwork. Second, while building their footwork we help them through the concepts of using two hands at the same time. Thirdly, we want to build an attacking mindset. Instead of being focused on the perfect counter, block, or defense, we want our students to build an immediate offensive mindset.

Intermediate Class

Coach Level Training, Wing Chun Combos, Wing Chun TimingFor our Intermediate class we move past our basic footwork and attacks and start building our combinations. After initial contact you must follow up to finish your opponent. Building on the foundation of attacks we begin to teach students how to effectively and efficiently follow up.

Not only do we build in the ability to follow up and finish an opponent we also begin to lean heavier into reaction training and sparring. There are three main stages of development which I go into more detail in my article Three Cycles of Martial Art Training. The last of these stages is reaction which is the hardest to master. Speed, technique, power, all mean nothing if you do not have the correct timing.

Conner McGregor said “Precision beats power, and timing beats speed” in a post fight interview. You can take this one step further and say that without any form of timing you cannot fight. So you MUST develop your timing. Wing Chun is very effective when used properly. But due to many attacks being intercepts versus blocks, learning the timing can be tricky. You must devote consistent hard work in sparring and active attacker training.

Advanced Class

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At our advance class level we begin the refinement of the techniques. We being teaching and using the Wooden Dummy at this level. Now that there has been years of using the Wing Chun shapes and applying them against pressure we can now upgrade them to the fullest level.

The Wooden Dummy training helps conditioning of the arms as well as tightening of form. Since the dummy does not hit back it serves no purpose other than that refinement of techniques. Spacing, shapes, rooting, all can be worked on using the dummy.

When at the advanced class we now also pass on the more traditional aspects of Wing Chun including Long Pole and Butterfly Swords. Wing Chun needs to stay applicable to the current martial arts you might run in to. However, you must keep your roots strong in the history of your training. Now that your training is coming full circle we finish the circle with advanced techniques and weapons.

WING CHUN LAKELAND FL CONTACT (863) 800-0171

Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu
Call us: 863.800.0171
116 East Pine Street, Lakeland, FL 33801 (Downtown Lakeland)

Tony Plasse: Becoming an Orange

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

Here on Tony Plasse: Becoming an Orange I explain my story but first, some history. Wing Chun a southern Chinese martial art mentioned during the period of the Red Boat Opera in the Late 1800s. Developed by southern Shaolin monks to help combat the Manchurians. It is influenced by other Fujian martial arts that preferred short steps and close fighting, with arms placed close to the chest and elbows close to the flanks offering protection. A simple boxing form quickly mastered by dedicated practitioners.

Two key figures keeping Wing Chun system alive after the burning of southern temples were Yat Chum Dai Si, 22nd generation Siu Lam Grandmaster monk, and Cheung Ng, also known as Tan Sao Ng within the opera. It was taught to other rebels taking refuge with the opera. From there it spread along the coast and rivers of south-eastern China by people who lived by and on the water. The Shaolin nun myth was most likely created to protect the identities of the creators and perpetrators of the Wing Chun system. Wing Chun translates to Spring Chant or Spring Praise.

Tony Plasse: Becoming an Orange

I remember my first introduction to Wing Chun Kung Fu was an Ip Man movie three years ago. Did not know much about it, but the movie inspired me to research it. I liked the theory behind and thought it would be more practical for myself. High flying kicks, although cool looking, are not my style. When I finally had the opportunity to attend a class near my house I thought to myself, “this is great”.

My Reaction

I have spent the last year training with Sihing Garret and I have noticed improvements in myself. Garret emphasizes physical training at the beginning of each class. I have improved muscle tone and stamina. Wing Chun techniques taught to me have improved my reflexes much to my surprise. Not just in wrist against wrist but in everyday applications. I react to things such as doors flying at my face. I caught one once with a Jum Sau action. The lady next to me said “Wow! That was like a ninja!”. I also catch the items knocked off shelves with a lot more ease.

My Confidence

Tony-Plasse-Wing Chun Kung Fu Tampa Bay FloridaThe wrist against wrist drill has helped my sensitivity improve into reaction. It has given me more confidence in handling myself. I always knew my normal movements gave me power. But now I am learning to channel that power more efficiently through stance and technique. I am more confident that I’m more prepared for situations when I’m out on the town or at work. I believe there are many applications I could have used previously in my life as a football player. Namely the footwork and center line punch drill. Both would have greatly helped me as an offensive lineman and coach. It also adds to my overall scariness.

My Future

As the days grow closer to my son’s birth, I look forward to sharing Wing Chun with him. I hope he will benefit from Wing Chun training developing skill, balance and confidence. I see Wing Chun as an opportunity to develop father and son bonds.

The instruction and encouragement I receive is outstanding. Sihing Garret and Sifu Och inspire me to dedicate myself and continue training. I hope to be an inspiring instructor one day. I look forward to progressing and to be a good representative of Tampa Bay Wing Chun Kung Fu and Sifu Och Wing Chun.

5 Ways Your Black Belt Journey Will Make You Stronger

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

There is a reason the title is “Your Black Belt Journey”, it’s YOUR journey. No one else can walk your life. You were created for a purpose and it’s your job to walk it to the best of your ability. That being said, too many times we see students comparing themselves to another student. In this article I will discuss what it means to walk the journey on the road to a black belt.

Your Black Belt Journey Starts Today: Take the First Step Now

Anything worth having takes time to get. Earning your Masters degree in Engineering, finishing Ranger school, a successful life long marriage. All of these things have something in common, they took a long time and a lot of hard work to achieve and/or maintain. People tend to treat martial arts different. As if learning to defend yourself from a threat is easier then one of these skills. Defending your family while fighting off multiple attackers or maybe even just one is not something you can learn in a weekend seminar. Yet, people continue to say they’ll “give it a try”. Or they will “do some Wing Chun” as if it were finger painting session with their friends.

Unlock Your Black Belt Journey: Master Your Path to Success

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Building a lifestyle

To really learn self defense you must embrace it as a lifestyle. The same thing that is said about being healthy is true here. If you “go on a diet” you will eventually go back to your un-healthy ways. You must change how you live as a whole. You must become a healthy person. They choices you make a the grocery store, restaurants, and gym time. This is who you are and what you do. Not an activity you participate in for a few weeks. The same is exactly true in training self defense.

My rank is high enough, I’ll be ok.?

In my previous article, 3 cycles of martial arts (which you can read here now). I explain that there are 3 main stages to training: Programming, Application, Reaction. But lets take it one step further, cementing.

Cementing the training by continueing to pressure test and increasing that. Through consistency and constant improvement. Is vital, otherwise you could lose your potential and skill overtime. What is good now will be ok tomorrow, and then eventually not good at all.

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All four steps take time to develop in reference to a technique. But the most important thing is they must be maintained. If you do not keep up your training then you will NOT BE ABLE to respond to a threatening situation.

Reacting to an attack takes split second reflexes as well as a situational awareness that maximizes your time. You may remember techniques from your training time but applying them quick enough will be very hard to accomplish.

The proof of this is many previous higher ranking students will come back from a hiatus and will struggle greatly with sparing and gor sao and lower ranking current students. That being said, setting goals and reaching them is a huge help when it comes to training as you go. But you should not have a rank as an end game. Living your life like a Black Sash is the key.

How to Achieve Your Black Belt: A Proven Step-by-Step Guide

The Sash itself is NOT the goal in martial arts. It is the person you become while trying to obtain it. When you envision a person who is a “Black Sash” you typically picture someone who is wise, patient, hard working, compassionate. You must become the person you envision as a Black Sash. That transformation into something new only happens under the heavy anvil of rigorous, consistent training. Be reaching for small goals (i.e. your next rank) you have something you can slowly move towards and develop those characteristics on the way.

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Related Articles from Sifu Och Wing Chun:

Why Wing Chun Is the Ultimate Martial Art for Growth

URL: https://sifuochwingchun.com/my-journey-toward-wing-chun/

Wooden Dummy and Chi Sau: When to Actually Teach Wing Chun’s More Powerful Tools

URL: https://sifuochwingchun.com/when-to-teach-wooden-dummy-and-chi-sao/

Nobody else can walk this path for you. You must accept where you are as a human. Recognize the type of person you must become. If you were a Black Sash how hard would you train? How compassionate would you be towards others? How loving would you be towards your family? These characteristics are what make a Black Sash. What are you doing to become that? You wanted five steps? your Black Belt Journey isn’t about steps, its about your dedication to your goals and how commited your are to achieving them.

Start Your Black Belt Journey at Sifu Och Wing Chun | Martial Arts Training

How to Progress Through the 3 Stages of Martial Arts Training

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

If you have just begun your training in martial arts near you know it can become very frustrating. You can feel lost in the material. Confused on a technique. Or you feel like you are behind where you should be. All of the these factors make starting martial arts difficult for the newbie. In this article, 3 Training Cycles of Martial Arts, we will explain a concept that will hopefully help you push past the first slump.

How to Build Martial Arts Mastery: The 3 Essential Cycles

There are 3 basic stages of learning a new technique. Once you understand these stages you will be able to identify where you are and what you need to work on. What you must understand is everyone develops different.

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Some learn the initial technique faster than others. Yet those same students may struggle in applying it. Everyone learns different. You must accept where you are so you can focus on YOUR development. Don’t stress about the progress of others. That being said, lets look at these 3 stages.

3 Phases of Martial Arts Training

STAGE 1: PROGRAMMING
The first stage of training begins with programing. This is exactly like installing a new system into a computer. It takes time. When a new technique is shown, it introduces a new set of motor functions that the body has not yet accustomed to.

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o overcome this the body needs time to “program” the new function into the “hard-drive”. Some students are more prone to certain techniques. Maybe they grew up doing a certain sport that had a similar movement to what they are learning now. For instance, in Wing Chun, there is a strong emphasis on rooting through the heels.

Consequently, if someone spent a lot of time lifting weights while growing up, they might be able to grasp that concept a little quicker.

Therefore, they would need to spend more time teaching their body to draw power from the heels, in contrast to the first person. This additional time and effort are necessary to recondition their body for the proper technique. This adjustment requires patience and consistent practice to recondition the body and build a solid foundation for the technique.

Phase 1 – The Foundation Cycle: Laying the Groundwork for Success

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The first training cycle focuses on building a solid foundation. This cycle emphasizes the basics: learning the core movements, techniques, and postures that will become the building blocks of more advanced skills. For beginners, this cycle is crucial because, ultimately, it prepares you for the more complex aspects of martial arts.

Without mastering these foundational steps, it would be difficult to progress effectively.

Key Elements of the Foundation Cycle:

  • Posture and Balance: Mastering proper posture is essential. Balance plays a key role in every martial art, as it affects your power, mobility, and control.
  • Footwork: Effective footwork is fundamental for movement and positioning. It allows you to control the distance between you and your opponent, enabling swift attacks and defenses.
  • Basic Techniques: Beginners must learn basic strikes, blocks, and stances. These are the essential tools for self-defense and combat.

Tip for Beginners: Focus on repetition. Practice basic techniques until they become second nature. This cycle is about consistency, so aim for slow and deliberate movements.

Stage 2: Application

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Secondly, after you have learned what the new technique is and how to perform it, you must also learn WHEN to apply it. This is called application. Furthermore, one technique can have many applications, and from that original, numerous variations can emerge. Moreover, you must treat the application of the technique like programming.

As you are essentially learning how to time it effectively against an attack, ensuring precision and adaptability. You need to be attacked repeatedly to get the timing down.

Along with timing the technique, you also learn and test another crucial aspect of application: structure. This element is essential, as it ensures that the technique remains effective under pressure and in real combat situations. Without proper structure, a block or attack will be ineffective, no matter how precise the timing. Just as gold is refined in fire, the structure of a technique must, in the same way, be refined through the pressure of real-world application. Ultimately, this process strengthens the technique, ensuring that it remains effective, especially when faced with challenges.

This process ensures that your technique remains strong and effective under real-world conditions. Pressure testing your structure helps develop your shapes that shadow training (or practicing in the air) can never do. Real attacks must be thrown and you to really develop your structure. Combining the timing and pressure training will give you the ability to fully apply your techniques.

Phase 2 – The Skill-Building Cycle: Developing Techniques and Strength

Once you’ve laid a solid foundation, it’s time to move on to the skill-building phase. In this phase, you’ll develop more refined techniques, increase your stamina, and start sparring with others. Training becomes more intense as you learn to incorporate techniques into real-world applications.

Key Elements of the Skill-Building Cycle:

  • Sparring: Sparring is an essential part of martial arts training. It helps you test your techniques in live situations and refine your responses to attacks.
  • Conditioning: Your physical conditioning is pushed to new levels. Training will include more strength-building exercises, cardiovascular workouts, and flexibility drills.
  • Defensive and Offensive Skills: You’ll begin to integrate offense and defense. Learning to block, parry, and counterattack is as crucial as learning to strike.

Tip for Beginners: Stay patient and focused. It’s normal to face challenges, but remember, every failure is an opportunity to improve. Pay attention to feedback from your instructor and continue to refine your techniques.

Stage3: Reaction

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Thirdly, the final stage of developing your technique is reaction. You have could structure and timing, but how will your fair when you do not know when the attack is coming? Reaction is the hardest part of training. You must build one technique at time. Learn how to react to one certain attack. Once you have dealt with that you build again from step one.

Program a new technique; apply it to real attacks; react to it in a sparring scenario. You must learn how to deal with skilled and un-skilled attacks. Single attackers and multiple attackers. As well as Feinting, counter striking, grappling, High-low hit combos. All of these things and more must be thrown at you.

Phase 3 – The Mastery Cycle: Perfecting Your Skills and Mental Toughness

The final phase in your martial arts journey is the mastery cycle. In this phase, you focus on perfecting your techniques, refining your strategy, and mastering mental discipline. Your training will be more individualized, with an emphasis on advanced techniques, tactical applications, and personal growth.

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Key Elements of the Mastery Cycle:

  • Advanced Techniques: Mastering advanced movements, such as complex strikes, joint locks, or submissions, is part of this cycle. Your focus should be on flawless execution.
  • Mindfulness and Mental Toughness: At this level, mental strength becomes just as important as physical skill. Mindfulness practices, breathing exercises, and mental conditioning can help you stay focused during training and in high-pressure situations.
  • Teaching Others: One hallmark of mastery is the ability to teach others. As you progress, you may take on a mentor role, helping newer students develop their skills.

Tip for Beginners: While this phase may seem far off, always keep an eye on the bigger picture. The more you focus on developing your mind and body, the sooner you’ll transition to mastery.

How Sifu Och Wing Chun Can Guide Your Martial Arts Journey

At Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy, we offer a structured and supportive environment where students of all levels can thrive. Our instructors will guide you through each training cycle, ensuring you develop a deep understanding of martial arts, both physically and mentally. Whether you’re just starting your journey or you’re looking to refine your skills, we provide the resources and expertise to help you succeed.

Why choose Sifu Och Wing Chun?

  • Expert Guidance: Learn directly from experienced instructors who have trained in authentic Wing Chun Kung Fu and Sanda Kickboxing.
  • Structured Training: Our training curriculum is designed to gradually increase in difficulty, helping you advance at your own pace.
  • Community: Join a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to martial arts excellence, fitness, and self-improvement.

In conclusion, this cycle must be repeated over and over again. Day by day, technique by technique, this must be done. Consequently, if you stay consistent with your training you will master every technique given to you.

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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/ 

Courage and Skill: Making of Jacob Cramer’s Orange Sash

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

Where to Begin? Where does one begin divulging the effervescent determination surrounding my growth in Sifu Och Wing Chun and a Wing Chun Test? But also the growth in myself.

Mastering Fear: Jacob Cramer’s Path to the Orange Sash

Understanding the Orange Sash Pre-Requisite in a Wing Chun Test

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First let me give you some background. At Sifu Och Wing Chun, earning an Orange Sash signifies a pivotal step in a student’s journey. It is a recognition of not mastering the fundamentals but finally understanding them. Then working towards that mastery as you move into intermediate application. This article outlines the Orange Sash pre-requisite, as detailed by Jacob Cramer. Understanding these requirements is crucial for all students aiming to progress.

The Significance of the Orange Sash

To begin with, the Orange Sash represents foundational skills and knowledge in Wing Chun. This level requires students to demonstrate proficiency in specific techniques, forms, and sparring abilities. Therefore, mastering these elements is essential for successful progression.

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Jacob Cramer’s Journey: His words on Orange Sash and his Wing Chun Test

The Beginning

Ultimately the scrupulous truth would be in my young age of six when I as many martial artist has divulged found my passion for martial arts watching Enter the Dragon featuring Bruce Lee. It was my favorite movie to rewatch and practice the moves of in my mom’s living room. From that moment on I knew I wanted to learn more about Bruce lee but also learn more about martial arts. Growing up we didn’t have much extra money so my passion laid with tutorial videos, school wrestling team, and books explaining how to train and learn new moves or techniques.

Ip Man Wing Chun Kung Fu in Tampa and Lakeland

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Fast forward to the important part, the year 2009 when the film Ip Man was released in the united states red box system, I was helping my grandpa move when he out of kindness decided to rent a movie for me and my brother. He casually strolls in and I will never forget what he said “you Know you guys have worked real hard and I wanted to show a small gesture of appreciation, I know you both love martial arts so I saw a film on Bruce lee’s master in red box and thought it would be interesting for you to check out.”

Little did I know that night after years of watching, reading, and jumping styles when able I would find my passion. I watched the film and fell in love with the pure flow of combinations, relentless ferocity in each hit and it wasn’t flashy but it was unprecedentedly fast and effective.

I begin with this prelude only to set the proper background for why I study as hard as I do and why I have such an appreciation for every moment I spend learning something in Sifu Och Wing chun.

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The Search

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In my years of martial arts fanaticism and study I have trained in my styles of course seeing as I have landed in Sifu Och Wing Chun never were for very long. The complete breakdown would be six months of high school wrestling, a month of Muay Thai, a month of Goju-Ru karate, and Six months of Sport Judo.

I gained a proper understanding of what most martial arts schools were about because of the many styles that I bounced around in.

The schools primarily focused on the money, they would show you a couple moves leave you on your own and then after a bit would ask if you want to join up. This was an industry standard I did not like, so I often parted ways, if I wasn’t sure I maybe stuck around for a bit to maybe see if I was judging to quickly or harshly. I feel that my jumping styles did in fact help me grow as a martial artist however the training only took me so far and let’s be honest it wasn’t very far at all. I still had nervousness in fighting situations or even in confrontational situations.

Home

Sifu Och Wing Chun has and will always be a blessing to me. It’s not simply a school to learn how to defend yourself, for me it’s so much more. To elaborate in greater detail and analysis it’s a family that helps me when I’m struggling. It’s a support group to help me further grow as a martial artist however the training only took me so far and let’s be honest it wasn’t very far at all. I still had nervousness in fighting situations or even in confrontational situations.

Sifu Och Wing Chun has and will always be a blessing to me, its not simply a school to learn how to defend yourself, for me it’s so much more. A group of people that I consider family. Who not only have helped further my physical and mental goals. But my Wing Chun Test goals and training as well. It’s also the one place in the world where I feel myself separate from my troubles.

Beginning the Training

First note I am going to touch on is the benefits of the training I receive from Tampa Wing Chun and Lakeland Wing Chun with my martial arts growth. When I began a little over a year ago I was nervous when entering a physical confrontation. However from the moment I joined (Like literally Day One) I was put into wrist vs wrist. This automatic exposure with the accommodations of the further advanced students I could not only overcome the fear but also conquer it. Now I love sparring and wrist vs wrist. As well as the Wing Chun Test which can be intense and satisifying.

As a result when situations outside in my daily life seem to be escalating I don’t worry, I am able to keep a level head. This allows for proper understanding of my surroundings and better problem solving analysis. Sifu Och wing chun also gives realistic defense training. Whereas in other schools I have found what felt like rigid motions that are supposed to at some point just become natural. Sifu Och Wing Chun has offered close quartered and naturally fast movements that take your body no time to understand and implement. It may take years to perfect or tweak to get it in the state you most desire. But in the beginning, you already see significant differences.

Continuing the Training

Second I also found a school that talks to each other. Not just when doing a Wing Chun Test but throughout the year. Older and more intimidating students walk up to the newbies and say hello. Give praise while also offering helpful criticism instead of sink or swim. It’s a place where I feel at home, not judged and where only growth is possible. Growth of the self, growth of the heart, and growth of body and mind. Nowhere I have crossed paths with has ever come within striking range of what is offered.

All of what I wrote hopefully explains why I love what I do at Sifu Och Wing Chun, why I drive 2 and a half hours for private lessons, tests, classes, and get together, and dream of one day offering a place of Sifu Och Wing Chun where I end up when I become Sifu.

Summer Camps Lakeland the Best Decision for Your Child’s Growth

Posted on by Sarah Lister

Sending your kid to Summer Camps in Lakeland can be one of the most difficult and rewarding choices you’ll make this year. Whether it is an all summer long day camp, or a week long overnight camp, the benefits are infinite! But for the sake of brevity, we’ve narrowed it down to ten:

Top 10 Reasons Why Summer Camp Is Great for Your Child

Summer camps provide kids with a wide range of opportunities, from learning new skills to making lasting friendships. But when you choose a Wing Chun martial arts summer camp, you’re offering them more than just fun activities. At Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy, our summer camp program is designed to develop confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense skills that will benefit your child throughout their life. Here are the top 10 reasons why enrolling your kid in our martial arts summer camp is the best choice for their personal growth.

1. Develops Confidence and Self-Esteem

At our Wing Chun summer camp, kids practice techniques that help them become more confident in themselves and their abilities.

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Through gradual mastery of skills, they experience personal growth and feel a sense of achievement, building long-lasting self-esteem. Going along with exposure to nature is the huge benefit of unplugging at camp. This is personally my favorite reason to go to camp. Cell phones have taken over our world in a huge way, and this generation’s children will be the first to grow up surrounded by this phenomenon.

2. Builds Discipline and Focus

Martial arts training, particularly Wing Chun, emphasizes discipline and focus. These skills naturally extend into other areas of life, such as academics and sports, helping children stay on track and manage tasks with greater efficiency.

Throughout all of this, there is always a strong sense of structure. Children thrive off of a solid structure. They know the boundaries and are free to operate within them, they also know that there are consequences to breaking the structure; further preparing them for life after childhood.

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3. Teaches Real Self-Defense Skills

Unlike many other summer camps that focus only on fun, our program equips children with real, effective self-defense skills. Wing Chun’s practical approach to close-combat defense gives kids the tools they need to protect themselves confidently in difficult situations.

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I like to consider summer camp to be education without the rigidity and monotony of school. Children are able to learn so much at camp without ever getting bored! A feat schools have been trying to pull off for decades. So this year consider sending your kid to summer camp. Watch as these ten reasons come to life in the little person in front of you.

4. Fosters Teamwork and Leadership

Through partner exercises and group activities, kids learn the importance of teamwork and leadership. These social skills are invaluable in school, sports, and other collaborative environments, encouraging kids to take initiative and work well with others.

While you are enjoying a bit of rest (or productivity), your child is participating in a variety of activities that all encourage different aspects of socialization. They may be learning to share through arts and crafts, the value of teamwork in sports and trust exercises, or even simply how to get along with people that are different than they are.

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5. Keeps Kids Physically Active

A martial arts summer camp keeps your child moving and active, promoting a healthy lifestyle. By practicing Wing Chun, children improve their fitness levels, flexibility, and coordination, all while having fun. Being unplugged allows for your kid to be completely immersed in their surroundings at camp.

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They are able to focus their whole attention to the task at hand and grow as an individual on a higher level than they would be able to with the distractions of daily life. This has the opportunity to start combating ADHD tendencies and possibly reduce the need for medication.

6. Encourages Respect for Others

Respect is a fundamental part of martial arts. Kids in our summer camps lakeland learn to respect their instructors, peers, and themselves, fostering an environment of mutual understanding and support. This principle remains with them as they grow into responsible adults.

Many of these new skills will get your kid moving, instilling a sense of how important frequent physical activity is. Summertime was once a time of outdoor exploring and activity, summer camps keep this tradition alive with plenty of activity.

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7. Reduces Screen Time

Instead of spending hours on screens, our summer camps lakeland provides kids with engaging, hands-on activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. They experience the world beyond technology, building real-world skills and connections.

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On top of having quieter evenings, the days are entirely quiet! Whether you are a stay at home parent or working during the day, camp days are often longer than school days and allow for a little bit of extra rest.

8. Boosts Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Martial arts training encourages kids to think on their feet and solve problems in real time. Whether they’re navigating a new technique or sparring with a partner, they learn to adapt quickly and apply critical thinking to overcome challenges.

Though camps are certainly structured, there is often designated free time. It is especially during this free time that kids will develop their creativity. The kids will be without direction from their mom, dad, or counselor. This freedom spawns their creativity and the camp environment is the perfect place to let them explore!

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9. New Friendships and Creativity

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Our Summer camps Lakeland is the perfect place to meet new people. Kids bond over shared experiences, helping each other develop skills while forming friendships that could last beyond camp.

Along with increasing their creativity in free time, the skills that they learn at camp will broaden their mental and physical capabilities overall. If your camp specializes like at Sifu Och Wing Chun, they could even learn martial arts or dance.

10. Offers a Fun, Safe Environment

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At Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy, we prioritize safety and ensure that every child has a fun, enriching experience. Our professional instructors guide children through every activity, providing a secure environment where they can thrive.

Let’s start with the most obvious reason. At any summer camp that you choose to send your child to, fun will be the number one priority (apart from safety of course). The days are full activities, barely allowing a moment’s rest. Children leave camp brimming with excitement over the day’s events, often ready for a quiet evening after having exerted themselves all day.

Why Sifu Och Wing Chun’s Summer Camps Lakeland is the Best Choice

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At Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy, we offer more than just a typical summer camp experience. Our focus on confidence-building, self-defense, and personal growth through Wing Chun makes our program the best choice for parents looking to provide their children with an enriching, educational summer experience. With expert instructors, fun activities, and a safe, supportive environment, your child will leave our camp equipped with life skills they’ll carry into the future.

Sparring Weaknesses Revealed: How to Be a Better Fighter

Posted on by Sarah Lister

Almost every martial art will include sparring in one way or another. Some may start it right of the bat, while other schools may wait until the student is more familiar with techniques; but either way, it is very often incorporated into training. Sparring can be a great tool for applying techniques learned in class in a less rigid and more organic activity. Despite its usefulness, many of us are not as skilled at sparring as we would like. Here in Sparring Weaknesses: A Checklist are some of the most common sparring weaknesses and how to avoid them:

How to Eliminate Sparring Weaknesses and Improve Instantly

Sparring is a key part of martial arts practice, allowing you to test your skills against a real opponent. However, it’s not uncommon to make mistakes that hold back your progress. If you’re struggling with sparring weaknesses, you’re not alone. Fortunately, these weaknesses can be identified and corrected with focus and commitment.

Here’s a detailed checklist of common sparring weaknesses and practical tips to address them, ensuring that you can improve both your defense and offense skills:

Sparring Weaknesses: A Checklist:  

Dropping your hands

This one is a no brainer but happens way too often. Fighters will drop their hands when they back away from the opponent, thinking that they are safe – and then get hit with a kick. Or, even more likely, they will drop their hands while kicking. Focusing on the legs and forgetting about the arms, making you a bigger target for a follow-up attack or even a simultaneous one. Keep your arms up at all times and check to make sure that those arms aren’t telegraphing any of your moves (i.e. twitch or downward movement before a kick, pulling back or clenching before a punch, etc.) 

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Sparring Weaknesses: A Checklist

Pendulum fighting:

This is when the fight swings back and forth like a pendulum. One fighter will attack, then the other, going back and forth as if the opponents were taking turns. In any sparring match, you want to avoid getting into a predictable rhythm. If your opponent is more experienced, he or she will exploit that rhythm and attack off-beat catching you in the middle of a sequence. To counteract this weakness add more variety to your attacks. Maybe charge the opponent without giving them the opportunity to hit back, add in combos, or dodge their next attack and move in.

 

Single attacks

Too many people come in with a single jab or front kick thinking it’ll get the job done. While it is okay to employ some single attacks throughout your match, make sure that you aren’t relying on them. Try adding in a low and a high strike, or a combo that includes both hands and feet.

 

All defense/offense

Many of the more timid fighters may focus on their defense in the beginning, looking to minimize the damage rather than gain advantage over their opponent. This may be a good place to start but if you are looking to improve your game, their needs to be a good balance of both defense and offense. Other people, however, may focus more on offense and neglect their defense. This weakness may not be much of a problem in the dojo, but would certainly be in a real fight. Increasing your awareness of the problem should lend to solving it. If that isn’t enough, shift your entire focus to the opposite problem. If you are a defensive fighter, try to go a round entirely offensive and vise versa. Your muscle memory should kick in and make it a fairly balanced fight of what you know and what you are focusing on.

 

All hands/feet

Similarly to the offense/defense problem, some people find that they are more comfortable with either their hands or feet and will focus in on one or the other. It always comes down to balance. Entire martial arts will prioritize hands over feet or vise versa. It is really up to the individual to find what works for them within his or her style. If you feel like you are too frequently using your hands or feet, find a good technique you like and drill it like crazy. If you are more of a foot sparer, find a good hand technique and practice until it flows in easily with your sparring. From there it will be easier to add in more techniques, creating balance.

 

Sparring with an ego

This one is probably the most dangerous of all the weaknesses. Sparring should be used as a tool to learn and better oneself, not as a means to assert dominance or ‘win’ a match. When you focus on whose better or winning a match, the focus shifts from inward improvement to outward comparison. And although competition can be healthy and helpful, if it’s used in the wrong way people can get hurt.

Identifying Key Sparring Weaknesses

  1. Dropping Your Hands
    One of the most common mistakes is dropping your guard during sparring. This leaves you vulnerable to punches and kicks. Without proper hand positioning, you lose the advantage of protection, making it easy for your opponent to exploit openings.

Tip: Always keep your hands at chin height. Your guard should be firm and ready to defend or strike at any moment.

  1. Pendulum Fighting: Swinging Between Offense and Defense
    Pendulum fighting refers to swinging from offense to defense without a clear purpose. In this situation, a fighter focuses too much on attacking, leaving openings for counterattacks, or spends too much time defending without capitalizing on opportunities to strike.

Tip: Aim for balanced sparring, where you transition seamlessly between offense and defense. Don’t let your attacks leave you exposed.

  1. Focusing Too Much on Single Attacks
    Many beginners focus solely on one strike at a time, hoping for a knockout. However, relying on a single punch or kick can easily be countered or blocked, leaving you vulnerable.

Tip: Mix up your attacks. Use a combination of strikes, fakes, and footwork to keep your opponent guessing.

How to Address These Sparring Weaknesses

1. Keep Your Guard Up at All Times
Maintaining a solid guard is essential. When your hands drop, you give your opponent an opening to strike. It’s crucial to keep your defense tight while preparing for the next move. Practice drills that reinforce good guard habits and ensure your hands never leave their protective position.

2. Strike with Balance and Control
Instead of swinging wildly, focus on controlled, powerful strikes that flow naturally. Balance your attacks with defense to prevent overcommitting. When you remain balanced, you avoid leaving yourself wide open for counterattacks and maintain greater control throughout the fight.

3. Embrace Defensive and Offensive Techniques Simultaneously
A key element of sparring is the ability to combine defense and offense. Always anticipate and respond to your opponent’s moves while preparing to land your own. Practice defensive blocks or parries and immediately transition into a counterstrike to maintain offensive pressure.

How to Fix Your Sparring Weaknesses and Perform Like a Pro

Consider the last time you sparred. Do any of these sound familiar? Frequent assessments of your strengths and weaknesses are healthy in order to develop as a fighter. Don’t ever settle for average, constantly strive to be better.

The Ultimate Face-Off: Krav Maga Versus Wing Chun for Self-Defense

Posted on by Tim Kittelstad

Wing Chun vs Krav Maga: How These Martial Arts Compare in Self-Defense

Wing Chun is known worldwide, made famous by Fighters of Ip Man, most well known: Bruce Lee. known for its speed and ability to devastate an attacker quickly. Its ability to adapt, control, redirect, block and attach simultaneously while using a variety of skills. Krav Maga is renowned for is brutality and viciousness used in the Israeli military and was created from borrowed technqiues from Wing Chun, Jiujitsu, and Boxing. In recent years there has been arise in both across the US.

Krav Maga vs Wing Chun: Head-to-Head for Superior Self-Defense Skills

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With Bruce Lee’s explosion onto the scene, Kung Fu (specifically Wing Chun) started to get some of the limelight. Around the same time Krav Maga started to make it’s way to the US. With Wing Chun emphasizing the most direct route to its target and Krav blending various styles to achieve maximum brutality, both systems were poised to emerge. However, before we continue with their growth in the U.S. lets look at some differences and similarities between the two.

Krav Maga or Wing Chun? Find Out Which Martial Art Protects You Better!

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Both Krav and Wing Chun emerged during periods of war. Specifically, Wing Chun emerged in 17th-century China during a civil war, while developers created Krav in the 1930s, following World War I and preceding World War II. Furthermore, instructors originally designed Wing Chun as a system that students could master in a fraction of the time required by other Kung Fu systems.

Similarly, Krav Maga fused the basics of wing chun, boxing, and ground work to create something that Jewish civilians could immediately use to defend themselves with. They both seek to dispatch their opponent as quickly as possible. Additionally, both systems “fight dirty”, using any means necessary to prevail.

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Wing Chun vs Krav Maga: Proven Self-Defense Strategies Compared

Now even with Wing Chun’s addition to Krav Maga there will obviously still be differences. First to be addressed would be the instructor and how much they have trained and know.

Unfortunately Bad schools are everywhere and its a buyer beware situation. There are Wing Chun academies that have “Sifu’s” that teach drills and techniques that would never help the student. Just as much as their are Krav Maga studios open where the “master” got a instructor certificate to teach and open a school with just 3 days (less then 24 hours of training) and a few thousand dollars with minimal martial arts understanding before walking in the door. So let’s

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Finding a true school in either and one that has the original intent and wealth of knowledge, skill, and capability is what we hope you look for and find. Don’t stress about the distance as much as how legit the academy you are training under. A false school in any style does a dis-service to everyone.

Right from the beginning, you must understand how chaotic combat can be. Thus, instilling the right mindset from the beginning is essential, as it becomes increasingly evident throughout the training. One advantage of attending a Krav school is that instructors emphasize the brutality of combat.

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Both have their merits; however, a deeper exploration reveals that Wing Chun offers distinctive advantages for personal safety and self-improvement.

The Ultimate Self-Defense Comparison

In Closing, both systems are effective in street combat. With fewer and fewer martial arts teaching realistic self defense because its not profitable. With more and more becoming very commercialized, you need to find the right school, not just the “close school”. Having something that gets straight to the point and efficiently accomplishes the task is crucial. That is the reason for the two arts quick rise to fame. Now with all arts both Krav and Wing Chun have also fallen prey to commercialization. So before choosing a school do your homework on the instructors! Once you choose, train hard and stay committed!

Related Articles from Sifu Och Wing Chun

  1. What is Wing Chun?
  2. Benefits of Wing Chun Training
  3. Self-Defense Techniques in Wing Chun

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Start your martial arts journey today! Fill out our contact form to learn more about training with Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy. Don’t wait—take the first step toward becoming a more confident and capable individual!

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History of Kendo – The Way of the Sword

Posted on by Ben Devris

Not many martial arts base their concept on the use of an object. Fencing, Iaido, and Kendo are the few which do. Fencing revolves around the use of the rapier. Iaido Practitioners utilize the katana. Finally, similar to Iaido, Kendo’s training involves preparation for the use of a Katana with a Shima. Here in Kendo’s History, we will focus on the history of Kendo including its origins as a 2 part series. In Part 2, we will change our focus to its practice.

KenDo’s Meaning

Kendo structures its art around the Japanese sword. Coincidentally, Kendo derives its name from the same. “Ken” is the Japanese character meaning sword, and “Do” is the character meaning way or path. Kendo is literally translated as “The way of the sword”. Like Wing Chun kung fu, the exact origin of the art is unknown, and its history does not link back to any founder. Based on historical studies, the history of Kendo stems from kenjutsu (the art of the sword) over several centuries. Both swordsman and Samurai played key roles in keeping it alive.

HISTORY of Kendo

Like Kendo, Kenjutsu’s origin is uncertain. The history of Kendo can, however, be traced back to the Heian period (794-1185). During that time its congruent years allowed the Samurai to perfect their sword techniques. The martial art was not highly sought after until the late Muromachi period (1336-1568). At that time, a long civil war ensued and resulted in the establishment of more Kenjutsu schools. After the turmoil in the early years of the Edo period (1603-1867), the concept of kenjutsu underwent a change. The techniques of the art initially focused on killing. Setsunin-to (the life-taking sword) eventually changed to the opposite: katsujin-ken (the life-giving sword). Katsujin-ken focused not only on swordsmanship but also on the discipline of one’s inner-self. Swordsman published many books relaying their theories on swordsmanship. One notable work is Musashi Miyamoto’s “The Book of Five Rings”.

Modern Kendo

Modern kendo did not take its form until the Shotoku era (1711-1715). Naganuma Shirozaemon Kunisato of the Jiki-shinkage-ryu school improved on the use of the bogu (armor) as well as the shinai (bamboo sword). He also established a shinai training method. In this continuing era of peace many Samurai established schools (dojos), teaching their art of kenjutsu or traveling from region to region honing their skills in inter-school competitions. Of the many schools during the Edo period in the 19th century, three schools became recognized as the “Three Great Dojos of Edo”. These included Renpeikan led by sinsei Saito Yakuro, Shigakken led by sinsei Momoi Shunzo, and Genbukan led by sinsei Chiba Shusaku. Several of Chiba’s techniques are still practiced today.

Kendo’s Rise

With the rise of the Meiji Restoration in 1868, and the abolition of the Samurai, the practice of kenjutsu witnessed a drastic decline. It was not until after an unsuccessful resistance movement on the government in 1877, that the government noticed the benefits of kenjutsu. It began teaching the practice to its Tokyo Metropolitian Police. The forming of the Dai-Nippon Butoku-Kai organization in 1895 allowed for the nationalization of the practice of kenjutsu. The rapidly growing popularity of Kenjutsu soon demanded a universal form. After careful deliberation between schools, Kenjutsu masters created the Nihon Kendo Kata, a set of kendo regulations.

Kendo Resurrected

Kendo and its practice remained uninterrupted into World War II, where the occupying allied forces saw kendo as undemocratic. They also saw it as having militaristic associations and outlawed the practice. This also resulted in the disbanding of the Butoku-kai organization. The Ban did not last long. The All Japan Kendo Federation revitalized Kendo with its founding in 1952. The Federation changed Kendo to take the shape of a “pure sport” martial art which was vital to its resurrection. The focus shifted from combat to the development of mind and body with the purpose of obtaining a better life for oneself. Furthermore, since the establishment of the International Kendo Federation in 1970, Kendo has made a popular appearances globally with many people wanting to practice the art.

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