Product Description
The Wing Chun Compendium explains the theory of wing chun from a technical, lifestyle, and philosophical perspective. Written by Wayne Belonoha — a certified Ving Tsun Instructor and National Certified Coach, 7th Level, Master Degree — the compendium offers hundreds of tips and techniques specifically designed to help readers advance to the next stage. The Wing Chun Compendium is divided into eight sections, including Theory, Techniques, Drills, Chi Sau (Sticky Hands), Forms, Pressure Points, Health and Fitness, and Terminology.

Students of all levels will find tips for improving technique and gaining benefits from the book's instruction in over 20 of the top skill-building drills and exercises, such as the Maai Sang Jong and Bong Guek (Sticky Legs) drills. Covering all three hand forms (Siu Nim Tau, Cham Kiu, and Biu Ji), it also provides a detailed examination of each movement and application and features an extensive terminology section that includes the Chinese characters and both Cantonese and Mandarin pronunciations for over 200 of the most common wing chun terms. The compendium concludes with Grandmaster Sunny Tang's special article, "Reflections of Siu Nim Tau After 30 Years." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

My Favorite thing since icecream
This is a great item for people of all skill levels to have. There was much information about things not often discussed in classes such as the wing chun blocks, how to go about daily life etc. I will definitely get the second one.

Very picky Martial Arts Reviewer extremely impressed!
There are very few books that I'd say are a classic.But The Wing Chun Compendium is definitely one!Sifu Belonoha has done an outstanding job of presenting Wing Chun in a very clear and concise manner.This book explains Wing Chun with very easy to follow pictures and explanations as well a supplemental information that truly explains the richness of the art of Wing Chun.I look forward to any other works that Mr. Wayne Belonoha has to offer!

Excellent companion book for your journey into Wing Chun!
I can only parrot what others here have said so much better than I: This book is a must for anyone walking the path of Wing Chun, regardless of lineage. It is jam packed full of tips and photos and wisdom and was obviously written as a labor of love. I have my own Sifu and his word comes first; but many of us in my school have this book- and the second volume (out now, covers the Mook Jong and the Bot Jam Dao)- and believe them to be a "must have" addition to the library of any Wing Chun player. Thank you Sifu Belonoha!

Simply the Best!
This is without a doubt one of the greatest works ever written on the Yip Man Ving Tsun system. The only other books I would recommend are those by Shaun Rawcliffe.

Learning ving chun...
I find this book insightful & also helpful. It's absolutely fantastic! I'm a novice practitioner on my way to earning a black belt/sash. ... Read more

Product Description
Wing Chun, also called Ving Tsun, is a popular system of kung fu designed centuries ago by a Buddhist nun and Shaolin master. Together, the two volumes of The Wing Chun Compendium offer a complete guide to the discipline, from theory and philosophy to drills and forms. In this volume, author Wayne Belonoha takes students to the next level, focusing on the final three and most advanced forms of the Wing Chun system and their associated skills: the “Mook Yan Jong” or wooden man; the “Lok Dim Boon Quan” or six-and-a-half point long pole; and the “Baat Cham Dao” or eight-cut sword form, demonstrated here for the first time by Grandmaster Sunny Tang. Also included are distance and angle improvement drills, fighting strategy and training, instruction on proper body mechanics, and “Sticking Hands” techniques. While intended for the serious practitioner, The Wing Chun Compendium, Volume Two also teaches the basics of body movement, psychological components of practice and performance, and how to use martial arts for overall self-improvement—factors that can help any martial artists seeking to enhance their physical and mental development. The book includes hundreds of tips and techniques as well as 400 photographs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Gotta Have
If you already have the first volume and/or are even remotely interested in Wing Chun kung fu, you have GOT to have this book. The two together, cover all the forms of the art. It's a GIANT over-view of the system. Great explanations. Very clearly written text. You won't find yourself re-reading paragraphs for clarity on what the writer meant.

Enlightening
Very well researched , with simplified instruction ...
The author has gone through extensive study and research to put this together. I recomend it to anyone who practices Wing Chun or is looking to expand their arsenal or techniques and knowledge....

Helpful & Insightful
It takes dedication, enthusiasm, courage and experience to write such a comprehensive book about the last three forms of the Wing Chun system. I bought the book to look for some drills to supplement my practice, but got deeply impressed by the other part of the Compendium that deals with many non-technical issues and values of Wing Chun Kung Fu.

Petar Petrov,
Author of "Wing Chun: Unusual Discoveries Behind the Common Belief"

A Great Addition
An excellent addition to the first volume, providing more insights and direction for students looking to study outside the class. I highly recommend both this and the first volume. They are some of the most comprehensive books on Ving Tsun I have read. ... Read more

Product Description
Yip Chun is a Grandmaster of Wing Chun, and the eldest son of Yip Man - Bruce Lee's mentor. With the help of Danny Connor, Yip Chun explains the moves, the importance of the relationship between teacher and student, and the Confucian theory. Studentswill learn Chi Sau, Siu Lim Tao, Chum Kiu, and Biu Tze from the many illustrations that show the forms. 150 photographs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

for interesting read and inspiration and philosophy
This is a good introduction into the style's philosophy for those new to Wing Chun.

It is important for the beginner to know that this book represents a particular line of Wing Chun that may not reflect the style he/she is doing. Personally, I don't train in the same lineage as this book's author. But regardless of lineage this book is a good read.

Also, this is not a book on forms, it will not teach you the forms.
It will however discuss them briefly and give you some pointers.

What I personally really liked about this book was inclusion of 'the Doctrine of the Mean', the Confucian-derived philosophical pillar of Wing Chun.

Another great thing about the book is the interview with Yip Chun, it's refreshing how he makes his view clear that Wing Chun is not for show, like some martial arts, but is meant to be practical and effective.
This realism is partly what attracted me to Wing Chun, it has a no-nonsense philosophy.

If you want more extensive knowledge of the theory I can recommend this one The Wing Chun Compendium.

Good but not near enough
This reads more like an introduction to the art of Wing Chun ratehr than a book covering the "principles".So much is left out.It would be better presented as Vol I, and then have the authors do a more comprehensive series.Just a suggestion.

Not the best I've seen
This book had a lot about nothing. Knowing that Wing Chun has lots of color and depth this book really doesn't do Wing Chun justice.

A good read, bad tutorial.
I wanted to learn and was expecting to learn Sil Lum Tao.I could not learn it from this book.Intellectually it was a good read and I truly like the translation of the Confucius Art of Mean. But if you want to learn to perform Sil Lum Tao purchase Wing Chun: The Science of In-Fighting DVD (excellent) and "Wing chun kung fu: traditional Chinese kung fu for self defense and health" by Ip chun (very good). These are much better introductory resources. I am still glad I own the book.

Please leave out biased comments out of reviews
I am a Wing Chun student.My master learned Wing Chun from a student of Yip Man.This book shows the way Wing Chun is practiced by Yip Man.It is a very technical book and has to be studied carefully to understand it.No one that has never practiced the art shouldtry to understand the book without first having hands on experience.It is a very complicated art.To the reader from Kennesaw, GA United States:You probably were taught that the style you are practicing is the best.Regardless of what style anyone practice we have to recognize one of the best expositioners of the art: Sifu Bruce Lee.Bruce Lee was a student of Yip Man and it washis first martial art.From it he developed Yun Fan Kung Fu or Jeet Kun Do.Do not say that any style is sloppy.Remember the best fighters are always obscure.This book is great if you know the basics of Wing Chun taught by a master. ... Read more

Product Description
Straightforward and efficient, Wing ChunKung Fu is one of the most popular forms of Kung Fu because it emphasizes techniqu over strength.By using the skills of Wing Chun Kung Fu, a smaller and weaker person can easily overcome a larger strong opponent.With its focus on technique rather than force, it is suitable for both men and women, young and old, and for those of all levels of physical fitness.
Grandmaster Ip Chun is regarded as the world's leading authority on Wing Chun.Bruce Lee--Wing Chun's most famous student--was taught by Ip Chun's father, Grandmaster Ip Man.Michael Ise is also a highly respected Qigong and martial arts master.Together they demonstrate that first form of Wing Chun (Siu Lim Tao) and show how it can be used for self-denence.They also outline the history and the art of Wing Chun and discuss its many other benefits, which include

Increased Energy and Vitality
Greater Confidence and Inner Strength
An Understanding of the Skills and Benefits of Meditation

With expert instruction and more than 100 step-by-step photographs, Wing Chun Kung Fu makes it easy to master the power and grace of this ancient martial art.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

good book, but what's it good for?
I have read this book cover to cover. It has some good writing about Ip Man's life, and Wing Chun's principles, and the same story about the origin of Wing Chun that you can get from Wikipedia. Much of the book is a step-by-step description of Siu Lim Tao, the first form in Wing Chun. As a Wing Chun student I cannot imagine how someone could ever learn this form from a book alone. I find it interesting for the theory and history in the introductory chapters, and as a quick reference for the chinese terminology for each of the hand positions in the Siu Lim Tao form.

Very,very Good Place to Start!!!!
This was my Very First Kung Fu Book. It was what made me fall in love with Wing Chun. This is a great book for the beginner student. There are other books that go well beyond this one as it pertains to Wing Chun. But this book has a soft quality about it that gives the reader a pathway of Wing Chun that other books do not. If you are exploring Marital arts and want a "Taste" of Wing Chun, this is a very, very Good start.

Suggested Books to read after this are:
Mastering Kung Fu, by Garrett Gee and Benny Ming (DVD's of a MAJOR help also).

Wing Chun Compendium by Wayne B.

And any book on Wing Chun By Randy Williams.

For WT Beginners
This is a good book for understanding what Wing Tsun (WT) is all about. This book explains where it originated why it was developed, who developed it, when it was deveoloped basically the history of WT. It also gives a little hindsight into how it has morphed into the WT the we have come to know through Bruce Lee and also how it has further developed into our day and age.

Can one learn Sil Lim Tao from this book?No, but...
...one might correct a few mistakes by following this book, notwithstanding the form being taught a little differently in every school.Good enough for a book, in my book.:-)The two photos on page 86 are in reverse order.Michael Tse brings a welcome combination of fluent English and unquestionable Wing Chun lineage.I also enjoyed the stories about the legendary Yip Man.

Pretty decent
At first, I thought this book was kind of "basic". Having studied wing chun for a while under a competent sifu, I went back and the book has some really good stuff in it. First of all, it details the first form well. It also contains clear photos, and explanations from people who obviously have spent YEARS with this art (I can tell, because many of their insights can only be won after long study). I also liked the final section, which shows you the real "street fight" applications of the art, and of the techniques shown in the first form. I liked the discussion of Bruce Lee and his relationship with wing chun (to put it in a nutshell: Bruce never gave up on wing chun, and his Jeet Kune Do had wing chun as its core !). I liked the historical information on Yip Man in Hong Kong. This book really packs a lot into a short book. I really recommend it. ... Read more

Product Description
The first form of wing chun, sil lum tao, is demonstrated with over 100 photographs. James Lee studied sil lum and wing chun before training with Bruce Lee in jeet kune do. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (29)

simple and helpful but not fully statisfying
I have read the book andI think it is recommended for someone who is begginer in Wing Chun. Very good pictures help you learn the sil lim tao form, main theory of WT is explained and it includes trapping methods as well as defence tactics. This is not a book with the whole WT system neither have fully detailed descriptions of the tactics and this is the basic drawback but it is the one with the vary basics and it is simple and helpful.

A classic in every sense
I bought this book over 30 years ago & it remains THE ONE I refer to regarding preliminary technique, despite all subsequent purchases of high priced, tricked-out volumes.It is simple, to the point & a fine reference guide in case you've either forgotten or wish to confirm a concept.While you can't learn an art just from a book, no matter who the author studied/practiced with, you can refresh your recollections with this one.Buy 2, used, so you can carry one with you if the need to bone up on something becomes overwhelming while you're away from home.

Excellent Wing Chun resource for beginners.
This was the first of many publications on Wing Chun that I had recieved. It's a very thorough book on the foundations of Wing Chun. It's been awhile since I've picked my copy up, but the information sticks pretty well. The diagrams for the blocking zones come to mind, when learning the basic defence manuevers. It gives clear and concise instruction on learning the first form of Wing Chun, Siu Num Tao. The trappying hands exercises and drills are fun to do, and are very precise in the illustations.

The only thing I felt was missing was a better understanding of Chi-Sao (sticky hands) Most instuctors I've spoken with have said it's almost IMPOSSIBLE to learn sticky hands from a book. Perhaps a video series might be better in explaining the movements.

I'd recommend this book to anyone looking for the basic steps to a Wing Chun program. Perhaps followed by some of William Cheung's books as well. For a more complete beginner to advanced series, I'd recommend checking out Randy Williams textbook series on Wing Chun. They are a bit more pricy, but well worth it.

Back to basics
Don't under estimate the contents and value of information in this book.
After 20 years, I am still practicing the basics, because my
current sifu made me realize I didn't practice the basics thoroughly.
I didn't spend the time, as there were too many distractions in life.

Learn the punches, practice the punches, from 100 repetitions, work up to 1000 punches every day if you can.
Practice the blocks. My current wing chun sifu bruised my forearm with a light touch.

Practice the basics thoroughly, daily, it will serve you well.

GREAT WING CHUN SI LIM TAO
GREAT BOOCK ON THE FIRST FORM SI LIM TAO. THIS IS THE AUTHENTIC YIP MAN FORM. WITH SOME GOOD APLICATIONS TO. GREAT BOOK. IF YOU WANT THE REAL THING THIS IS IT. LOOK UP YIP MAN MPEG VIDIO CLIP THIS IS THE SAME FORM TOUGHT IN THIS BOOK! GET IT LERN IT APPLY IT! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (8)

Excellent guide to the wooden dummy form
Sifu Rawcliffe's book is an excellent study guide and reference for students of Wing Chun who are learning the wooden dummy form. The instructions and photos are very clear and Sifu Rawcliffe provides examples of self defense applications of all the techniques in the form. My only complaint is sometimes the photos for the movement being discussed are not on the same page as the text and I found myself constantly flipping back and forth between the page I was reading and the page with the appropriate photo. Otherwise, it is one of the best of the many books I have read on Wing Chun and I highly recommend it.

highly recommended to Wing Chun students
Shaun Sifu educates in a way that will most likely complement that which your own Sifu/Sigung teaches you when you are learning the Wooden Dummy form. This book is a must for the Wing Chun student's library.

Wing Chun in its true essence!
Superb book! Unlike the majority of Wing Chun books which focus on specific techniques, lineage, and "trapping tricks" or "secrets" this book concisely and in my opinion accurately cuts to the heart of Wing Chun-- what makes it alive, devastating and flexible as a martial art. Rawcliffe writes clearly and eloquently, not trying to build himself up or impress. 5 stars for the information, plus another 1 star for the brevity, and yet another 1 star for the enjoyable style in which it's written. Not often you find a well deserving 7 star book!

The best book of its kind I have read
With over 40 years experience as student and teacher, I have not seen a better presentation of technique and philosophy.I am not a Wing Chun practitioner but Mr. Rawcliffe's diagrams and explanations have given me an excellent insight to this style.

You will NOT learn Wing Chun from this book; you need a teacher for that.But if you are a Wing Chun student, I cannot think of a better reference volume to supplement your training.Other martial arts stylists can also gain valuable insights into there own brand of self-defense by a good reading of this book.Highly recommended and Mr. Rawcliffe is to be commended for setting a high standard for martial arts books.

Impressive
I am deeply impressed by the format and content of this book. It manages to cover all the key aspects of Ving Tsun Kuen in great depth and detail without promoting one 'family' style or approach.
As a Dit Dar doctor (bone healer), I am also very impressed by the depth of knowledge and understanding shown by the author and by thearticles he included by 3 of his students. It is rare to find a westerner who can appreciate and understand the complexity of Qi energy, let alone it's use within Gung Fu.

The publication of this book gives great reassurance that the teachings of Man Gung are at last being fully appreciated and passed on correctly abroad.
Rawcliffe Sifu is a credit to his teacher, himself and to his Wing Chun brothers. His obvious years of studies, research and dedication plus his openness and willingness to share his acquired knowledge, without the need for self promotion is indeed a rare commodity.
I am honoured to be able to review this book.

Cheung
Tai Po, NT, Hong Kong (SAR) ... Read more

Product Description
This martial arts manual is a comprehensive guide to the basic forms and principles of Wing Chun kung-fu. In over 300 black-and-white photographs, Wing Chun Kung-Fu: A Complete Guide leads the reader step-by-step through the beginning forms of Wing Chun kung-fu, including Chi gerk, Chi sao and Wing Chun sticky-hand and sticky-leg techniques, as well as detailed commentary on the theory behind each move. Other sections include specialized fighting and grappling techniques and instructions on using weapons. An additional section is devoted to weight and power-training exercises that will be of particular benefit for serious students of Wing Chun. ... Read more

Product Description
Hailing from mainland China, the Yuen Kay-San system of Wing Chun is one of the arts more elusive and rare styles.Included in this book are the history, concepts and foundation of the art, the sup yee sik and siu lien tao forms, and their practical applications.For beginners, it serves as a great introduction to Wing Chun; for seasoned practitioners, it offers a new and unique perspective into the art. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Yuen Kay-San Wing Chun Kuen
This is an excellent book on a rare form of Wing Chun. Very meticulous in the instructions given. In my opinion, this may even be superior to Ip Man's version of Wing Chun. Having practised martial arts for the past 18 years, I fell in love with this style of Wing Chun.

If you must choose one book => this one !!
Sorry for my english (I'm french). I'm practicing martial arts since about 15 years now (fist/foot boxing + tai chi) and discovered wing chun about 1 year ago. I read lot of books on wing chun (I think "most" of them) because I'm leaving in the countryside and can't get easily class of wing chun (a pity). Anyhow, I manage to train daily .
Rene Ritchie - & Ngo Lui Kay sifu - book is BY FAR the finest I bought. It covers 12 simple attack/defensive mvts + the 1st form. EACH mvt of the 1st form is shown with splendid & reallistic explanations + fighting applications that allow you to really possess the form and to train even if you are no more a beginner. Each applications is VERY cleverly choosen to light a new concept of the mvt of the form.
Thank you so much M.Ritchie for this book. I'm waiting for the next books YOU MUST WROTE : the ones on 2nd/3rd form and wooden dummy :)

Recommended Reading for Students
Ritchie does a tremendous job providing the historical background of the Wing Chun style. In addition, his pictures bring clarity anddemonstrate theapplications of this system well. This should be on every studentsbookshelf.

Refreshing
The structure is well laid out. Intorductory information is well presented. The actual technical sections could have done with better and larger photography. The use of 'motion-lines' like those in Wushu books from China would also have been useful.

The dominant line of Wing Chunin the world today is the Yip Man line from Hong Kong. This book is a goodintroduction to another line. It is no more or less in depth than manybooks of this nature, but printed materials can only convey so much. Anaccompanying video would have been great. How about that for the next book.Could certainly have done with a page-numbered index for quickreference

I think the book thoroughly deserves a 5 stars rating and thecontents justify the tilte. An all round better and more mature effort thanthe authur's last book. It sets out to introduce the history and foundationand it accomplishes that without getting too complex.

Great book!
I got the more from this book than any other wing chun book, (and I've got them all). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Aussie MA
Mastering Wing Chun Kung Fu by Samuel Kwok is a book for all. After 26 years of Martial Art training - primarily BJJ, Kyokushin and Thai Boxing, I found this book refreshing and informative. The format of the book and layout of the material made it an easy read for a non Wing Chun practitioner. I appreciated the historical moments leading to the 1st form series and then application. This led the book into the next 2 forms making me more interested in delving further into Ip Man Wing Chun, seeing how it could compliment my current style of martial art training. Well informed and knowledgable books such as this, makes the progression in martial arts a never ending story. Thankyou Samuel Kwok and thankyou Ip Man Wing Chun. I highly recommend this book to both Non Wing Chun martial artists and Wing Chun practitioners alike.

This book is not on the whole system!
I got this book because one of the other reviewers said that it had the complete Wing Chun System in there. The guy obviously doesn't have or hasn't even read through the book. It only has the 3 fist forms - Siu Nim Tau, Chum Kiu and Biu Ji. It has nothing on the Dummy, Bot Jom Doa (8 Slash Knives) or the 6 1/2 point pole.

The book was short and to the point which is the way of Wing Chun. There was really nothing new in the book. I have met Ip Ching and was really excited to learn more about his family's official version of Wing Chun, but I'm sorry to say this book didn't match my expectations.

I found more details in the Wing Chun Compendium Vol. 1 & 2 than in this book. In Sifu Kwok's book, they had an interesting section on Fan Sao (Ch. 10) but that was short. Other insights were on Facing or Dui Ying, Fa Jing, Translation of the VTAA Code of Conduct, Ip Man's written history or Ving Tsun and Sifu Kwok's Personal Photo Album. They were all kind of short. After each form there are a few pages on applications of certain aspects of each form. There is also a short section on Chi Sao.

This book isn't expensive so it's a nice addition to any collection. But if you have the Wing Chun Compendium, it's not necessary to get this book.

To be a bit nit picky, there were some spelling mistakes and grammar mistakes. The writing style was also a bit of a chore to read. Instead of "Yee Gee Kim Yeung Ma" the book says "Gee Kim Yeung Ma" It does that throughout the book! Big lack of detail.

I'm sure Sifu Kwok is a great teacher and his DVDs are probably better. This book was just a bit of a letdown.

Greatest Book on Kung Fu I've Read Yet
Wow.This book is wonderful, that's all I can say.If you have some experience with martial arts--specifically Chinese--and want to learn an authentic style a Gong Fu, this is the book you should get.There are also some harder-to-find dvd companions.If you can't find them here, just go to Master Kwok's website.

Foshan's newest treasure
Mastering Wing Chun is truly one of the best books, if not the best book. on the market concerning the Ip Family Wing Chun methods.This is the only book to be endorsed by BOTH of Ip Man's sons, Grandmasters Ip Chun and Ip Ching.It was honored by being placed into the Ip Man Museum in Foshan, China making this book an awesome feat in Wing Chun history.

Master Kwok and Master Massengill write superbly to detail what makes the Ip Family method unique.From the history of Wing Chun to the detail of the empty hand forms, this work leaves you feeling like you have been able to train with all three Grandmasters at once.There are many citations from all three members of the Ip Family that help one to understand exactly what they taught.If you are serious about your Wing Chun, you need to get this book!!!

The Bible of Wing Chun Kung Fu
After reading "Mastering Wing Chun" by Grandmaster Sam Kwok I was simply in awe and most impressed: I've been studying Wing Chun Kung Fu since 1981 (and started teaching private students in 1986), and been privileged to meet the foremost Wing Chun masters and Grandmasters alive, learn from them and practise Chi Sao with them. My library of Wing Chun and other martial arts books is quite extensive...this book and DVD series is an absolute MUST have, read and watch for any Wing Chun practitioner - whether at beginners or masters level - or anyone seriously interested in self-defense and martial arts. Sam Kwok's lifelong and total dedication to the original Ip Man Wing Chun Kung Fu, his absolute expertise, his fierce fighting spirit, and his amazing generosity and kindness shines throughout its pages...this book will be known as 'The Bible of Wing Chun Kung Fu'!
Arne Klingenberg, author of The-Happy-Side.com ... Read more

Product Description
Cheung is one of the world’s leading authorities on wing chun (along with classmate Bruce Lee, a principal of Yip Man’s legacy). This book covers stances and footwork, the chum kil forms, chi sao drills and applications. Fully illustrated. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Great book by GM William Cheung
Advanced Wing Chun

This is very good book, that describes the second form of wing chun.

Excellent
The whole Chum Kiu (Kil) form is remarkably well detailed. However the combat applications derived from the form itself are not featured.
A pity siu lim (nim) tao is not described in the book.

William Cheung rocks!
I have had this book for many years, and only when I got real instruction did it all make sense.

As far as his form.William Cheung learned them all in the 1950s along with Bruce Lee, Duncan Leung, and many others.If you are fortunate to get an instructor that is from those guys in the 1950s, good for you.Most of those guys that came out in the 1960s were trained by senior students and not Yip Man directly.I wouldn't mind
being trained by some of those seniors, but I don't hear about them much.

Anyway, William Cheung is a fighter that learned wing chun about 50 years ago.
If you want a theoretical reading, I suggest the 'Wing Chun Compendium'.However, I would still prefer to be
taught by GM Cheung than the author of a better book.

Stay Away
Worthless book from a worthless person.

I found this in a used bookstore and picked it up. At the time, I had been doing Wing Chun for about a year, but had never heard of William Cheung. I was surprised and a bit confused at the contents of the book because it was very different than the Wing Chun I had been learning. I thought perhaps this Cheung fellow came from a different lineage than myself. (I do Ip Man Wing Chung as taught by his son Ip Ching). Turns out Cheung is an Ip Man student. Why, then, does his WC bear little to no resemblance to the WC as taught by all of Ip Man's other students?

The answer, as it turns out, is that Cheung only learned a small bit of Wing Chun, and made up the rest so he could promote himself as a "great master" in Australia. He fabricated this story about how Ip Man taught him and him alone the "secret version" of Wing Chun.

Cheung is in the same category as other self-proclaimed "masters" like Ashida Kim. He just made up a bunch of stuff, concocted an outrageous story to impress people and make them think he's some kind of special "chosen one".

He's just like Ashida Kim.

Anyway, if you are interested in learning Wing Chun as taught by Ip Man, stay as far away from William Cheung as you can. What he teaches is a system largely invented by himself, and is not, repeat: NOT Wing Chun.

Excellent Reference book!
If your already a wing chun enthusiast, you will appreciate this book provided that your not a small, closed minded, slandering, negative self-promoting a*s like Leung Ting and his students who take every possible opportunity like this book review, that has nothing to do with "Boztepe" or "Leung Thing", and use it to show just how infantile and petty they truly are in their relentless use of twisted half truth (EDITED!) smear campaign against Cheung. Surely this book will not show you how to fight or more importantly the intricate details of the art itself. This Book or any other is not a subtitute for an actual instructor, nor does it claim to be, but it is an excellent REFERENCE manual for those that are already in the system (Beginner, Intermediate, or advance) learning from a qualified instructor!

As for Ving Tsung people, grow up! Your sending a bad message to would be wing chungers and Ving Tsungers alike. It hurts us all in the end. Peace be with you! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Good reference
The little the book covers is covered well; good detail.It's a "startup" book.Don't expect a ton out of it.It's a great book to to learn positioning from as a companion to a video.

ThePath to Wing Chun
Very well written...an excellent text for the martial arts practioner interested in the first form of Wing Chun.

path TO wing chun
As the book title suggests, it is the Path To Wing Chun, not the Path Through Wing Chun.It is excellent for the beginner, with all the information and background to the art that you need to know. All the techniques are true to Wing Chun, and not the modified versions that you find in the better known books (W.Cheung). I give it top marks because it is a modest book and is not trying to sell itself by pretending to teach you Wing Chun if you buy it and read it a couple of times a week.

Student of Samuel Kwok, United Kingdom
This book is both good and bad.Sifu Kwok is an excellent Wing Chun expert and a knowledge of the art which surpasses a lot of more famous Wing Chun artists.The book does explain the first form Sil Lim Tao, in good enough depth, and demonstrates basic techniques well enough.It isn't however, a bible of Wing Chun, nor does it have any advanced techniques in it.....What this book is good for though, is the history of wing chun and background to the martial art. It contains information on all the students of Yip Man, as well as those whom Sifu Kwok has taught and are now instructors all over the world.It also contains a lot of information on where to get information if you want to be taught Wing Chun. It also contains a lot of photographs of which aren't really found anywhere else of Yip Man and his two sons.....If you want a lot of background on the art and also want to be able to practice the first form, then buy it.Sifu Kwok teaches Wing Chun in the Original style that Yip Man taught it, with none of the useless modifications that are found in other instructors books.

not very interesting at all
When I bought this book I was expecting something much better,unfortunately I was very disappointed, it contains few techniques and isnot very clear with poor descriptions, do not buy!! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

a Classic Wing Chun Text
A classic text covering the complete Sil Lim Tao level training of the Yip Man Wing Chun school. This first book in the series (there are 3 volumes in all) lays the foundation needed to fully digest the material covered in the remaining 2 volumes. A must-have for the serious Wing Chun media collector. The drills and exercises presented alone make this increasingly difficult to find series well worth the asking price. Old school Yip Man Hong Kong lineage Wing Chun.
Note: The second volume in the series (Chum Kil) is almost impossible to find. This should be taken into account if you are attempting to collect the entire set.

Best book series out there.
I reccomend the entire set. Chao gives details not found in any other book or video series. The 1 inch punch training info alone is worth the price of the set.

Learning any Wing Chun.....
...from a book requires excellent photography so that the subtleties of hand and arm positions can be captured.This otherwise fair book suffers from very dark photographic reproduction that renders it largely unusable.

Learning Under an Actual Instructor is the Only Way to Learn
It's an old book written in the early 1970s. However, Wing Chun has branched into various linages: Wing Tsun, Ving Tsun, etc. each with it's own philosophical approach and methodology. The objective of this book is to teach Wing Chun.

I'm a student of Leung Ting Wing Tsun and train directly under an instructor. Wing Tsun involves an understanding of the redirection of force, of being soft and using forward pressure to feel and respond to varying degrees of force and pressure and redirect it away from you, being free from your own force, using the force of the opponent against him, etc. are key fundamental core concepts and principles of Leung Ting Wing Tsun and can only be learned by training with an instructor and honed by practicing with a partner or partners.

You can not learn how to feel force and redirect force, when and how to attack, etc. by reading a book or watching a video. Wing Tsun is hands on learning and mastering. Don't be fooled into believing you can learn a martial art by purchasing a book, video or correspondence program. Marines, Army, Special Forces, including Police units from all over the world don't learn martial arts by reading a book or watching a DVD. They learn from actual instructors and practice with other students.

No book or video can teach you Wing Tsun. If you're training under an actual Wing Tsun instructor, a Wing Tsun a book or video would be used as a supplmentary guide to understanding theory, history, sequence, movements and terminology. Basically, a supplement to what you learn in class. However, it is not a substitute to actually learning the system. You want to learn Wing Tsun? Find a teacher. go to www.wtdefence.com.

Good book to add a regimin to ones existing wing chun study
K.T. Chao claims a to have been a student at the yip man school and a colleage with bruce lee.All of his books have a lot of routine.Perhaps a trademark of the yip man school. Lots of repetition. Simple.Lots of pictures.Not a lot of hype.Good old fashioned modifyed wing chun. ... Read more

Product Description
This is the first book in a series of training manuals written to guide you step by step through the amazing Martial Arts system of Wing Chun. This book deals with the fundamental principles and concepts of the art, as well as giving detailed analysis of mental and physical attributes you will need to acquire to be successful within this discipline. A powerful fighting art, Wing Chun is now widely regarded as one of the most effective Martial Arts systems in the world today. It can be practiced by anyone, regardless of gender, size or strength. If you have issues about your own self protection, the pages of this book will present you with a method of developing a sound self defence skill. With details that will aid beginners and advanced practitioners alike. Whatever your chosen style, discipline or skill. This book covers the basic drills of the system, concepts of sticking hands, Lut Sao Jik Chung, Inch Force development, Stance rooting and defensive perimeters. You will also learn key tactics, advanced applications of the Tan, Bong and Fook sao structures and the use of fighting ranges.The next book in this series takes the reader, for the first time, step by step through the entire sequence of the Sui Lum Tao form, detailing the applications and uses of each and every movement, as well as discussing further training concepts and ideas featured in this book, improving your skills even further. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Good Read but not a substitute
This is a good read and has lots of difficult concepts explained well but you will still need to see demonstrations of the forms in order to comprehend them.

Not enough detail
The book starts out well, it has a healthy outlook to share with the reader throughout. But there are not enough details and the pictures are a little confusing.

A great handbook
As a long-time Wing Chun practitioner I have to admire Kokkarakis for his intelligent, well-crafted, and mature book on the art.This isn't just another rip-off of Bruce Lee.This is a serious and (I hope) lasting book that will help students understand the science and philosophy of this ancient art.

Awesome
I've had this book for 2 weeks, I've read it twice and it's completely changed the way I think about Wing Chun. Testing out some of the concepts as the author describes them has shed new light on many aspects of my training and left me feeling that I've wasted years practicing drills incorrectly. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

A Worthy Read
This book introduces some of the lesser known branches of Wing Chun kung fu. For those of you who believe the Ip Man (Hong Kong) lineage to be the purest form of Wing Chun kung fu, you may be in for a surprise. There are some traditions which have not been covered in this edition. Nevertheless, it paints a clear picture of the diversity of Wing Chun and highlights some of the legends that surround the art.

A Very Interesting Book
I liked the book a lot and finished the book in one day.I liked the stories and it was a Short concise read.There were also insights into a few of the systems such as pictures of certain postures and applications of the varied lineages.
Although I liked the book I would not call it "Complete Wing Chun".The chapters were short and not comprehensive enough.Even though they chose a few of the major lineages, they did not go into as much detail as I would have liked.Maybe a little more detail on more of the principles and applications that set the lineages apart. I just wished that they had gone into more detail.Hopefully there will be more books on the individual lineages.

this is a great book
Don't be fooled by the bad reviews, this is a really great book and anyone interested in wing chun should get it

We need more books like this
I remember seeing an article, I think by Jane Hallander, in a martial arts magazine more than a dozen years ago, with an intriguing account of a Wing Chun type style called pao fa lien. I thought it an exceptionally interesting article, and it certainly made me wonder what other forms of Wing Chun were still alive in China and its neighbouring countries. To most Westerners, Yip Man's style has become the standard when it comes to Wing Chun, and so it was fascinating to learn of the existence of other branches.
Not only is this a groundbreaking book, but it could be the start of a new genre in martial arts books. What we have here is a fine compilation of information about no less than eight styles of Wing Chun and briefer mention of half a dozen others. The authors themselves are from diverse backgrounds and styles of wing chun, and I can only applaud their vision and maturity in working together to present such a wide range of information to the martial arts public. Very briefly, they are Robert Chu, resident in California, a practitioner of Yip Man, Gu Lao, and Yuen Kay-San Wing Chun styles; Rene Ritchie, of Eastern Canada, a student of the Yuen Kay-San Wing Chun style; and Y. Wu who resides in Singapore and practices the Nanyang and Yip Man Wing Chun styles.

Since most readers are probably more familiar with the Yip Man style, I'd like to focus on the lesser known styles in this review. You'll be glad to know that pao fa lien is one of the eight styles featured in this fascinating volume, and it was the first one that I turned to when I inspected the book. We are told that the art is composed of 10 empty-hand sets, four wooden dummy sets, and over a half dozen weapon sets. The three trademark empty-hand sets of wing chun, siu nim tao (little idea), chum kiu (seeking bridge), and bui jee (darting fingers), make up the basic level of forms training. While the weapons sets focus on the familiar (at least to wing chun practitioners) long pole and double knives, there are also other weapons such as the 13 section whip, the scholar's sword, the trident, and the Kwan dao. It seems that there are two varieties of sticky hands practice within the various wing chun systems, one resembling more the pushing hands of tai chi rather than the "rolling" sticky hands that are more familiar to most of us, and the pao fa lien system uses the "tai chi" variety.

Among the other little known styles is Nanyang Wing Chun, which, we are told, includes the three typical sets of wing chun, the wooden dummy training, and the typical weapons: the pole and the double knives. In addition, it has a number of other empty hand sets, one of which seems to indicate some kind of relationship between Wing Chun and white eyebrow boxing (Pak Mei). A fascinating insight was the mention of the so-called "separate techniques." In the Gu Lao style, no use is made of forms.

The founder, Leung Jan, passed his style on in the form of a 40 point system. We are told on page 47, that "One should not simply look at the 40 points as techniques, but as to teach the fighting skills of wing chun. When the basics are mastered, a student can then do combinations and permutations of the techniques while moving left and right, with high or low stances, at high, middle, or low levels, to the front and back, and/or while advancing or adjusting the steps. Advanced practitioners can reach the level of being able to change and vary their movements with empty hands or the double knives."

I find this emphasis on perfecting single techniques absolutely fascinating, and it fits in with what Adam Hsu has to say about the importance of perfecting single techniques in his new book, The Sword Polisher's Record, where he asks: "Is it necessary to learn forms?" We are also told in the section on Yuen Kay-San Wing Chun, that some previously "separate" techniques have been formalized into training sets. It makes me think that this movement of techniques from single, separate techniques into sets is the norm, at least in Chinese boxing styles, and would seem to indicate that most styles start with a group of separate techniques which then gradually coalesce into a set or sets.

While this book is probably of most value to wing chun and jkd practitioners, I hope it will serve as a model of more comparative studies of the often amazing variety within a single system. Two related styles from Fukien, Emperor Fist, aka Grand Ancestor Fist, and Five Ancestors Fist, and on the Okinawan side, Uechi-ryu and Goju-ryu, are prime candidates for this kind of study. We need more books like this.

Conclusion based on guessing
The title of the book should be Incomplete rather than Complete Wing Chun.The writing on the Yip Man chapter is based on the author's biased opinion rather than objective information.The authors gave three or four version of Wing Chun history which only shows their lack of academic research.Proprigating myths and legends without coming up with thesis will only add more confusions to the wing chun world. ... Read more

Product Description
Two DVDs covering a multitude of information and the companion book, The Anatomy of Wing Chun. A great combination. In this boxed book and DVD set Grandmaster Philip Holder covers all major aspects of this fascinating art. It will take you from the historical origins of Wing Chun through the concepts that the system is based on including... The Three Forms, Wooden Dummy, Stances, Footwork, Center Line and Radial Positioning Principles, the Six Zones, the Stages of Combat, Crossing the Bridge, Finding the Tunnel, Deflection and Redirection, Dissolving the Opponent s Energy, Economy of Energy and Movement, Improving Punching Skills, Improving Kicking Skills, Visual Perception, Chi Sao Training, Knees and Elbows, Self-Defense, Improving your Sparring skills, Wing Chun Weapons and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

good book and It is what it says it is
I recently had purchased a copy of the Anatomy Of Wing Chun and liked it enough that I went to Amazon to see if any other books by Philip Holder on the topic. When I did I saw a review by another customer by the name of "KP KP" I have never written a review but since I have the book and now the DVD I wanted to write my review because I felt the "KP KP" review was pretty unfair. I found the book to be exactly what it is advertised to be. Although they do recommend that you refer to the video in the book, it is clear in their Amazon description of the book that although people can enjoy the book alone that the book is better with the video. That's why references to the video. I actually got the DVD after getting the book and they are excellent together. Maybe KP KP has some ax to grind, who knows. The review seemed pretty hostile. In fairness though there are a couple typographical errors but nothing significant. Overall the book is very good and exactly what it is advertised to be. It is probably aimed more at the first year student or someone researching Wing Chun. The video does get into more advanced stuff and more detail than the book. I would like to see Holder do a more advanced book but this is great for what it is intended to be. Before purchasing I read the Amazon description that clearly states "This book was originally written as a companion-learning tool to the Anatomy of Wing Chun videotape but is also a great "Stand Alone" reference to the amazing art of Wing Chun." I also looked at the inside the book feature on Amazon before buying. In fairness to KP KP maybe he did not read that stuff first and perhaps expected something different. Anyway, I think it's a great book based on what it is advertised to be. It is straight forward easy reading on the subject of Wing Chun Kung Fu.

Advertisement of videos
This book is the worst Wing Chun (or Wing Tsun) book I've seen, andI've read many. The book is short, the layout is bad, the writing is pretty bad, and it's full of spelling mistakes -- all of which I wouldn't mind if the Wing Chun techniques were explained well. Most techniques are not covered at all, there's often one page worth of discussion why it's essential you should do the technique right, and then you are simply referred to a video that costs [$], no explanation included in the book. 15% of the pages (pp. 84-98) are advertisements of the various videos of the author.
I was so surprised about this since all the other reviews were so good. Then I noticed that they were all from "A reader" who has been pretty good at reviewing the other books of the same author as well...

Better than the typical book on this subject.
I'll give a few negatives first.The book is physically small which makes some of the photos a little difficult to look at.Don't take that to mean that there is not much information here...that could not be further from the truth.Ok...that is it...there are no more negatives.
The information in this book cannot be found in any other single book anywhere.Some of the information cannot be found at all anywhere else.This book is all about the most practical aspects of Wing Chun as a fighting system.Holder has managed, through the core principles of the Wing Chun system, to compile the most complete and polished explanation of those principles to be found anywhere.His many years of experience teaching fighters, and other teachers around the world more that shows through in the precise and detailed explanations contained in this book.If I could only purchase a single book on Wing Chun, this would be the one.

An asset to my training
I have been training in Wing Chun for several years now and I found this book a wonderful addition to my training.It really helped me understand the forms and principles of the system in a clear, simple to understand way.Anyone of any level could benefit from this book!

I loved this book and learned alot!
This book was very helpful to me as a relatively new kung fu student.It explained in details that were easy to understand the this wonderful martial arts system.I would recommend this book to anyone learning martial arts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

A good introduction to Bil Jee form
Wing Chun Bil Jee: The Deadly Art of Thrusting Fingers

A good book as an introduction to Bil Jee form of Wing Chun,
But the form in this book doesn't look like the complete form when compared with Bil Jee form depicted by GM William Cheung in his videos (The dvds of GM William Cheung for Bil Jee)
The form in this book lacks several important sets which are shown in the vidoes published later by GM William Cheung himself.

Not worth the time
The author, William Cheung, is often criticized for his own personal deviations from the traditional Wing Chun Kung Fu system. This book is no exception.

I have a feeling that this book came before Cheung's sudden involvement in chi & meridian therapy, as it fails to shamelessly promote in the same way as his more recent writings.

Though I was looking for a book on Wing Chun's third form, Bil Jee, I was greatly disappointed. His explanations constantly repeat and contradict each other and even go against the core Wing Chun principles (see the Bil Jee form photos for examples).

This book is either evidence that Cheung has become too sidetracked in his own patchy modifications or that Cheung never knew traditional Wing Chun in the first place.

One star for making a cheap bookend.

Wing Chun's Third Form
Wing Chun Bil Jee is an excellent book by Australian based master William Cheung.

Wing Chun is one of the most internal hard external Chinese arts. Most of it's crane style based techniques are intended for use with Chi, from the deep rooting first form Sil Lum Tao, to the moving energy root of Chum Kil. The Bil Jee form only makessense when it is interpreted as attacking the chi meridians. Therefore, it truly is an advanced form, that is only fully appreciated when one has a strong knowledge of Chinese chi theory.

This book does not go into any discussion of chi or meridians, it merely presents the techniques, including some combinations that are not in the form. A must own for any Wing Chun practitioner.

Good reference on the Bil Jee form of Wing Chun
I am primarily a Jun Fan / Jeet Kune Do practicioner, but am interested in learning more of Wing Chun so I have also been studying original Wing Chun, and William Cheung's books were recommended to me as references for the forms, and they are excellent for that purpose.

If you are studying Wing Chun, Cheungs books are good references. Even better, though, is to videotape someone with good form performing the forms, once from the front and once from the side and practice with those.

Although the reviewer "Jonathus" is correct that most fights are short and won with good basics, the rest of his comments would indicate that he does not have enough of an understanding of Wing Chun to "get" some of the photo sequences in the book. His statement that "one does not attack by pointing his fingers at an opponent and hopping on one leg towards his target" is correct, but if he understood what is depicted in that particular photo sequence or had been taught the movement, he would realize that that is not what is happening. The movement is an entry meant to draw a reaction to gain an attachment from which to trap and attack or open a line of attack.

Good book to have for Wing Chun artists
Although this book demonstrates the advanced form of WIng Chun, it is still useful for the student who hasn't attained the skill to learn the form. Cheung shows proper execution of bil jee, and shows some other wing chun strikes and blocks. Briefly discusses wing chun combat theory, and some other principles. Good showing of the form, though don't expect to be able to execute the form exactly without a qualified instructor. Cheung then goes on to show some entry techniques that I've never seen and I question their effectiveness. Ends with a chapter on bil jee applications. Cheung includes a letter to him from Lee Jun Fan, for some reason, maybe for a sales booster, but the letter is irrelevant to the books purpose. I also don't know why he chose to write about the advanced form of wing chun first, and then go onto to write books covering more of the basics, it seems backwards, but hey I'm not Grandmaster Cheung. ... Read more

Product Description
This uniquely popular, and in depth study, systematically explains all the essential concepts, principles and basic training methods of the Wing Chun system. Beautifully illustrated with easily understood, clear, pictures and diagrams. Holistic health and philosophical arguments are also fully covered. Why Wing Chun Works is an essential training aid for anyone thinking about, or already studying Wing Chun. The Wing Chun system has many logical and systematic learning methods, similarly this book is divided into sections to facilitate the learning process, and to make cross referencing simple. Why Wing Chun Works will also prove invaluable for other experienced martial artists wishing to broaden their horizons by studying different arts. This book explains; how Wing Chun works, why it is so effective in practice and why its methods are so different to other arts. ... Read more

Product Description
THE FIRST COMPREHENSIVE BOOK ON THE FOUNDATIONS OF WING CHUN KUNG FU. 220 pages of thorough text. Loaded with detailed photos. Absolutely educational. A clear layout of this amazing art. Precise instruction and explanations. Great for all levels and all stylists. Soon to set the standard for instructional martial arts books. Learn the foundations and philosophy of this amazing art! Wing Chun is a scientific yet theoretically based martial arts form. The specialty of a Wing Chun practitioner is close-range combat. Wing Chun utilizes well-coordinated angular deflections with simultaneous attacks. A Wing Chun practitioner is agile yet powerful, delivering quick, close-range punches and kicks rather than locks and grabs. Wing Chun is based on the concepts and principles of simplicity, economy of movement, and economy of energy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

if it only allowed me to underscore not recommended
As a student and critic of Wing Chun martial arts, I would absolutely not recommend this book.In fact; this book is poisonous to any students of Wing Chun and will hinder the development of your Wing Chun. As I read through the book; the amount of errors are astronomical; furthermore: by tracing the multitude of lineages in Wing Chun, none will affirm GM Philip Holder's Wing Chun training. There are accounts he trained under Moy Yat system in NYC and the William Cheung (explains why Wahnish front kick knee is so high(trademark of William Cheung)) but none will affirm authorizing teaching credentials to the Holder/ John Ryan Wahnish lineage of Wing Chun.

I do not know if the previous people who posted reviews practice Wing Chun martial arts but from my account: clearly this is not Wing Chun martial arts.Lesson to learn for readers; check the lineage of authors because that will assure correct foundations and solid Wing Chun. If you're interested in Foundational Wing Chun in NYC, look elsewhere, take an introductory class: there are plenty of distinguished Wing Chun martial artists in Chinatown.This book is for people who know no martial arts but believe they are getting the real deal.

Translations of some hand positions are incorrect, it appears forcebly Ching'lish, Mandarin and Cantonese were utilized to describe some hand positions.What happened to the Gan Sau or Gan Da?That is a crucial hand position for applied CQB when stepping into opponents waist and above kicks.Gan Sau is an absolute BASIC of Wing Chun which unfortunately is not included inside this text.The theory of Center Line Theory is another crucial dogma of Wing Chun; repeatedly in the book the demonstrators violated the Center Line Theory.

Wing Chun practitioners must spend crucial time to develop the Yee Jee Kim Yeung Ma especially when learning the Sil Lum Tao.Without a solid foundation; there is no future for Wing Chun.As I gracefully read through the book with my red pen; I have listed approximately 40 errors to the demonstrators feet, especially in the application of foundational Wing Chun hand techniques.The kicks on this book belongs in a separate paragraph.

Because there is long list of criticisms for this text, I will only list a few.The author has no idea of what Shaolin is; it appears as if the research was simply wikipedia.Nor does the author understand the courtesy bows of Shaolin monks.Major criticism of the demonstrator's Siu Lum Tao, the demonstrators hands are too high; blocking the practitioner's line of sight, too tense (unable to fluidly flow), not correctly cultivating the posture to understand the techniques.If you're in a confrontation; it is irrational to block your own line of sight.Moreover; the demonstrator does not understand "clean" Sil Lum Tao.The training of Sil Lum Tao is to practice and reinforce the Center Line Theory; there are sections I do not understand why the demonstrator repeatedly fails to utilize the Center Line Theory.

The Punching and Kicks section are not Wing Chun.No solid foundations are no solid martial arts.Never in Wing Chun history is there a side or round kick.Not even for Modified Wing Chun.Not even for Southern Chinese Kung Fu.The use of the Side and Round kick is a direct contradiction to the Center Line Theory, and the failure to use the proper Yee Jee Kim Yeund Ma stance.

The exercises in the later half of the book completely violate the basics of Wing Chun.The demonstrator over shifted and failed to target the Center Line of the opponent.Many times the pictures depict the demonstrator chasing the arm and not correctly cultivating timing and judgment of delivering the correct technique.As for all Chinese Martial Arts; the foundations are learning to move in horse stances and the Yee Jee Kim Yeung Ma, this book fails to underscore the importance of proper footwork.There is a Chinese saying "Hands chase your body falls, but if legs guide, body and hands follow."

Lastly; the Training Notes of each Section, for myself, appears to be a book filler of empty pages.

Way too brief.
If you plan to learn wing chun only from books then this book is a good introduction. However, if you are a wing chun student and you have a sifu then this book will not help you.

The book covers each technique very briefly. It gives you just enough instruction to perform each technique and that is all.

This book was written for wing chun outsiders.

Pretty solid
Due to my geographic location I have to rely on books and other such means if I want to study anything martial arts related that isn't TKD or Karate.

Since book learning isn't the most desirable way to study any martial art I have to be pretty selective in what materials I choose to learn from.

As my first book on this system I can say i'm quite satisfied with it.The material is laid out very well, covering basic foundations first and applications later on.

Large photographs and fairly clear descriptions line the volume as well making it easy to interpret the material being covered.

This book goes through hand positions, Si Lum Tao form, stances, punching and kicking drills, and basic applications.It does not go through Chi Sao practice, wooden dummy practice, or anything else more advanced so those looking for these kinds of things should look elsewhere.

one of the best wing chun books
This is a very clear introduction to wing chun, and one of the best books on wing chun I have seen. I like this book because it explains wing chun to American readers or western readers, and doesn't assume we know chinese or the "mystical" origins of their arts. It just explains things plainly and simply. The photos are well done and clearly help explain the art. The only minor thing is, I think a book cannot show how dynamic and explosive wing chun can be. You have to really see someone exploding a kick into someone's abdomen to really see how wing chun works. But this book is excellent. I would suggest to anyone interested in wing chun to get this book, and also get one of the DVDs, like that from Michael Wong, that shows the "explosiveness" of wing chun.

A superior work
The two most highly rated books on Wing Chun are this one and The Wing Chun Compendium by Belonoha. I have both, and for anyone new to Wing Chun, this is by far a more rewarding book.
No doubt Belonoha's book contains more material...it reminds me of a reference source.

But Sifu Wahnish's effort is far more useful. For example, Chapter 3 covers stances and footwork. In 12 pages, the stances are clearly defined, and more importantly, he gives simple drills for movement between the stances and how they apply to positioning against your opponent. After reading the material, you 'get it', so to speak. I find in the other work, you don't.

Everything here seems to be geared at one goal...proper formation of the elemental techniques of Wing Chun. Nothing fancy. Like building a house with a rock solid foundation. Simplicity and economy....the essence of Wing Chun. ... Read more

Product Description
How does a smaller and weaker person defend himself or herself against a larger, stronger opponent? The answer lies in the martial art of Wing chun. Developed by a woman over 400 years ago, it has gone on to become the most popular form of kung fu. One of its most famous students was film star Bruce Lee, who was taught by Grandmaster Ip Chun's father, Ip Man. Wing chun is a close-range martial art which is based on simple and highly effective movements. With its emphasis on easy-to-learn techniques rather than force, it is suitable for both men and women, young and old, and for all levels of physical fitness. In this guide, Grandmaster Ip Chun and Michael Tse demonstrate the first form of wing chun (siu lim tao) and show how it can be used for self-defence. They also discuss the many other benefits of wing chun, which include increasing your levels of energy (qi) and vitality, developing your confidence and inner strength, and learning the skills of meditation, through 130 step-by-step photographs and instructions. ... Read more