Technical Concepts

Centerline Theory

The most effective striking points lie along the opponent’s vertical axis, forehead, nose, chin, chest, diaphragm, lower gut, and groin. Attack the centerline while simultaneously protecting you own. However, it’s not Wing Chun 101. Sifu encourages hooks, Hammerhands, outside body shots -as long as it’s tight.

Linear Striking

The quickest way from point A to point B is a straight line. But punching with vertical fists, elbows in, isn’t just faster. The idea is that you align your whole body weight behind each strike. Most systems teach to utilize the turning power of the hips and shoulders. Wing Chun teaches that linear striking is more powerful, but it takes practice.

Multiple Strikes

This is street fighting, not boxing. There’s no need to conserve energy in case it “goes the distance”. Saturate the opponent with 3, 5, 7 punch combos. Don’t give him a chance to breathe. Now it takes practice to do this effectively, especially under real adrenal stress. So there’s nothing wrong with 2 punch combos. The point is to be active.

Toe-Heel Stance

A compromise of Wing Chun and Boxing. Feet shoulder width apart, with a slight lead. Toe of rear foot should be even with the heel of front foot. Slight bend in the knees. Hands up at chin level, elbows in. Not too wide, not too narrow. Slight lead.

Right Lead

AKA “southpaw”. Sifu says we train mainly right lead so he can teach us more techniques per lesson. Both sides would take twice as long and we’d learn half as much. A well-rounded fighter should be at home in either lead. You are expected to train on your own. But there’s more to it than that. A lead/jab is the easiest, most effective way to strike. Might as well make it your strong arm. Most people are right handed. Different theory than boxing, obviously. JKD is said to have borrowed some idea from fencing.

Footwork

Closing the distance. Bridging the gap. The size and number of steps depends on the opponent’s distance. Also what’s easiest for you. Half-step, Big Step, multiple steps while striking. Walking Step ,Shuffle Step and of course, the Arrow Step. Always keep both feet beneath you. No wide stances. Bring up the trail leg.

Ranges of Combat

Three basic ranges. Outside, Inside and Grappling Range . Each range can be further divided into 3 sub-ranges. Perhaps a bit too esoteric, but here they are. Outside: No Contact, Kicking, Boxing. Inside:striking, Trapping, Standing Grappling. Grappling: Takedowns, Ground and Pound, Submit. Our bread and butter is inside range.

Angles of Attack

The Clock System. The most effective attack is usually right down the center–line or 12:00. If you’re bigger, or at least have big balls, it’s the way to go. But if you’re smaller, use different angles to your advantage. Step off center to the left side, 10:00, or off center to the right side, 2:00. Seek for Outside Attachment . And watch your 6:00. As for striking angle, it’s either straight (90 deg), off center (45 deg), or outside (hooks).

Economy of Motion

Keep it simple. Your techniques should flow into one another. It’s easier to hit with alternating arms, rather than a double jab. Use combos that make sense. 123 to the same spot. High, Mid, low. High, Low, High. Again, the quickest way from point A to B is a straight line. Simple foot work. Relax don’t get tripped up.

No Telegraphing

Don’t give away your movements. Try not to pull back or fidget before striking. Be quick as a serpent. The call it Snake Fist for a reason.