Centreline Theory
THE KEY CONCEPTS, TECHNIQUES, AND METHODS OF WING CHUN — MADE CLEAR
Short Definition
Centreline Theory is the Wing Chun principle that all attacks, defences, and movements revolve around the central vertical line of the body. Controlling this line gives you the shortest attack path and the strongest defensive structure.
About The Centreline
What Is the Centreline?
The centreline is the imaginary line that goes out from the centre of body. In Wing Chun, this line represents the most direct route to an opponent and helps us cover the most vulnerable area of the body with our Wing Chun guard.
Why the Centreline Matters in Wing Chun
Wing Chun attacks travel along the centreline because it is the fastest and most efficient path between two points. Defensively, guarding your own centreline reduces unnecessary movement and keeps your structure tight, stable, and economical.
How Centreline Connects to Wing Chun Techniques
Techniques such as Tan Sau, Pak Sau, Fook Sau, Bong Sau, and Lap Sau are all designed to either guard the centreline or help you regain control of it. In Chi Sau, maintaining centreline advantage is a constant battle of positioning, pressure, and intention.
Centreline in Forms and Training
Siu Nim Tao teaches the basic concepts of centreline protection and straight-line striking. Chum Kiu introduces rotation and how to maintain centreline while turning. Biu Tze covers using the method of counting an attack with an attack.
RELATED TERMS
Centreline Q&A
Centreline Theory is the idea that all strikes, defences, and movements follow or the central line of the body. It is the most efficient path for attack and the most important line to defend.
The centreline represents the shortest route to your opponent and the area most vulnerable to attack. Controlling it gives you speed, structure, and a major tactical advantage.
Man Sau, Wu Sau, Tan Sau, Pak Sau, Fook Sau, Bong Sau, and Lap Sau are all designed to guard or regain the centreline. Most forms and drills reinforce this concept.