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Frequently Asked
Questions
When can I start training at the Midlands Wing Chun Kuen
?
You can start at anytime as we run an ongoing introductory group.
It is, however, best to ring first to confirm that it is convenient. The
introductory period will last a minimum of 16 sessions and is designed to allow
you, as a new student, to build up a bigger picture of what our classes,
students and instructors are like. This helps you to decide whether you want to
continue training when / if we invite you to become a full member. All
newcomers are kept separate in an introductory group for 16 lessons, during
which time they are taught the basics but are also encouraged to watch the main
class train. Over this period you can watch 16 typical classes, ask questions
about any aspect of Wing Chun Kuen, the Sifu (Instructor), the students, etc.
At the same time however over the 16 lessons each newcomer is the subject of a
psychological and physical assessment and analysis by the Sifu and his
assistants, who listen to your questions, review your attendance and
punctuality, note all beginner's respect (or lack of it) and assess each
applicant's suitability and attitude. Upon completion of the introductory
period, and if we are happy that you will fit in, we will invite you to join
our organization subject to the successful completion of an
assessment.
Can I watch before I join in the
training?
You can watch as long it doesn't disturb those training, however
only by joining in will you begin to understand what Wing Chun has to
offer.
What do I need in order to start training
?
If you intend to train wear something appropriate; we wear club
T-shirts, training trousers and training shoes and expect you to wear similar,
preferably a plain white or navy t-shirt.
How much does it cost for those first 16 introductory classes
and what will be covered ?
The cost is £30.00 per batch of four lessons. During the 16
lessons introductory course you will learn about the background of the school,
the teacher and the history of the Wing Chun system. In addition you will be
taught the correct etiquette and approach the Wing Chun training. On the
physical side you can expect to learn the fundamentals of Wing Chun including
the stance, posture punching, stepping and turning. Alongside these the correct
and efficient body mechanics and the correct musculoskeletal structure and
alignment are taught. The physical aspects of Wing Chun are also supported by
the Wing Chun principals including economy of movement and energy, correct
usage of energy, the centreline, simultaneous attacks and defence principals.
What happens at the end of the 16 lessons introductory
course?
Should you be invited to join our organisation, following the
completion of the introductory assessment which covers the core movements and
principles of the Wing Chun system. Successful applicants need to complete a
membership application form, the agreement in writing to our constitution and
codes of conduct and pay the years membership of £40.00. This payment
covers full membership and insurance for the next 12 months and includes a club
T-shirt. Membership and Insurance is renewable annually and subsequent years
are £30.00.
Member's lessons are payable £30.00 monthly by standing
order, or, depending on the location (see individual Class locations for more
information) by cash, cheque or direct transfer on the first training lesson of
each month.
Are there any gradings in Wing Chun
?
No, we do not have a grading or belt system, instead we have a
structured training agenda that we call assessments. An assessment is the
student's opportunity to stand up and show what he/she has learnt over the
previous 4 months or so. They serve to check the student's progression through
the Wing Chun system. There is no pass or fail, if during the weeks leading up
to the assessment the student is not capable of performing the assessment
techniques to an acceptable standard, they will not be submitted for assessment
by their instructor. In addition the assessments, which are primarily conducted
personally by Sifu Rawcliffe, serve to ensure that the clubs respective
instructors are teaching according to the way that they were taught and
therefore retain the authenticity and traditionalism of MWCK Wing Chun through
the levels. Each student assessment costs the same regardless of level and is
NOT priced on a rising scale.
Do I need to be physically fit
?
Wing Chun is suitable for everybody and can be adapted to suit
all levels of fitness. Practice and training will itself develop, maintain and
then increase each student's fitness levels. Obviously should anyone be
extremely unfit or have a medical condition, medical advice should be sought
prior to any physical activity or exertion.
What other excercises can I do to enhance
my Wing Chun ?
Many students ask if there are any exercises that can enhance
their skill and speed up their journey along the Wing Chun path. The answer to
this is Yes and No; the fitter that you are physically can only help you,
however you must balance the time spent increasing only your fitness in a gym
or with supplementary exercises against time that could be spent increasing
your skill and experience of the techniques that are contained within the Wing
Chun system. Logic dictates that if you want a fast and powerful punch the best
way to achieve one is to practice that punch, so that you can build and hone
the muscles and tendons that you need to execute that punch. If you want to
learn how to swim, the only way is to actually get into the water. This is true
of all the Wing Chun techniques, in that the primary method to improve at any
of them is to practice them and not waste valuable time on pure muscle building
exercises.
Do you enter competitions ?
No, Wing Chun is not a sport. We train only for self protection,
no rules, no gloves, no point scoring , no fancy trophies and no
referees.
How long will it take before I can defend
myself ?
I wish there was an answer to that question. It all depends on how
often and how hard you train and practice. At the Midlands Wing Chun Kuen we
have simple philosophy, we teach you a movement, when you can perform it
successfully, we will teach you the next. Until you can perform it
successfully, we work with you on that movement. Advancement within Wing Chun
therefore is based solely upon your ability - we measure you by ability and
understanding, not length of service. |
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"Midlands Wing Chun
Kuen" is the trading name of Midlands Wing Chun Kuen Ltd, Reg No. 07162974
"Midlands Wing Chun
Kuen Ltd" Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (c. 48), All rights
reserved |
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