Gyrotonics is a relatively new system of physical fitness. Juliu Horvath created the system in the late 1970's. He combined the dance and gymnastic training of his youth with a passion for woodworking. The end result was a machine that allowed the body to move resistance in circles, arcs and angles not available with conventional equipment. Exercise could now move in the more natural range of motion. A newer and yet another application of … [Read more...]
Wing Chun and Minimalism
I remember when I first started training in martial arts, someone told me that he had to learn 50 hand locks for his next test. How impressed I was that his system was so extensive to have so many locks to cover so many situations. The same went for knowing a vast array of armbars and kicks, it seemed that knowing more was better. As I progressed in martial arts and started training in Wing Chun Kung Fu, I found that more became confusing. … [Read more...]
Practice Makes Permanent
The old axiom " practice makes perfect" was altered over the last decades to a more correct "practice makes permanent." You must practice using the correct motor pathway and technique repeatedly to make permanent the learning. When learning how to swing traditional Indian Clubs you have a formal stance with your heels together and toes pointing out at a 45 degree angle. When doing techniques from this stance, the pull on the back and hips tax … [Read more...]
DragonTail Form
The DragonTail form is a Slow, Moving Meditation practiced with a 36" wooden, magnetic cane, also used for massage. The form was passed on to me by a great, second generation teacher from Taiwan; Ann Thomas. The form, originally taken from the tai chi 13 form is still analogous to it but not identical. I have been practicing and teaching the form for about 12 years. It consists of very simple movements and the basic form is easy to learn. Like … [Read more...]
Fact Fiction Form Function Of Indian Clubs
Indian Clubs gained it’s name from the British Officers and Officials that observed their use by the indigenous peoples of India during their colonization period which lasted to the last century. Observers noted the powerful yet lithe physiques of the practioners and felt this form of exercise would be beneficial . The British cataloged the techniques and brought it back to their country where it was systemized and introduced into their … [Read more...]
Note from Sifu Wayde
After months of writing and organizing the Wing Chun Combatives website, it is finally a reality. Many thanks to good friends that have contributed and will continue to contribute with their skill and knowledge. It is my hope that not only novices will come and contribute to the website, but people of other arts who can appreciate the concepts of Wing Chun Kung Fu. Rather than arguing whose art is best, I think it is better to find common ground … [Read more...]