Wing Chun Principles
THE KEY CONCEPTS, TECHNIQUES, AND METHODS OF WING CHUN — MADE CLEAR
Short Definition
Wing Chun is guided by a set of core principles that shape every movement, stance, technique, and reaction within the system. These principles explain how and why Wing Chun works, emphasising structure over strength, efficiency over force, and intelligent movement over brute power.
Below is an overview of the essential principles taught across all WCKUK schools, each linking to a full glossary definition.
FOUNDATIONAL CONCEPTS
Wing Chun is built on directness, efficiency, centreline protection, and structural strength. These principles shape how we move, defend, and attack with minimum effort.
CENTRELINE THEORY
The concept of protecting the centre of the body while attacking along the opponent’s centreline.
👉 Centreline Theory (full definition)
ECONOMY OF MOTION
Using only the movements necessary to achieve the goal — no wasted action, no excess steps.
👉 Economy of Motion (full definition)
STRUCTURE & RELAXATION
Combining alignment and relaxation to create flexible, stable strength while remaining responsive.
👉 Structure & Relaxation (full definition)
FORWARD ENERGY
A constant intention to occupy the centreline and pressure the opponent efficiently.
👉 Forward Energy (full definition)
SIMULTANEOUS ATTACK & DEFENCE
Attacking while defending, removing delays and keeping continuous pressure.
👉 Simultaneous Attack & Defence (full definition)
BEST DEFENCE IS AN ATTACK
A WCKUK core approach — controlling the opponent’s space with proactive forward intent.
👉 Best Defence Is An Attack (full definition)
ENERGY & INTENT PRINCIPLES
Wing Chun develops efficient power through unified intention, tactile sensitivity, and controlled structure. These principles explain how energy is produced, received, and redirected.
NIM LIK — THOUGHT / INTENT FORCE
The focused mental intention that unifies mind, structure, and movement to generate internal power.
👉 Nim Lik – Thought / Intent Force (full definition)
SUN FAAT — FORWARD INTENT
A principle of always occupying the centreline with committed and economical forward energy.
👉 Sun Faat – Forward Intent (full definition)
TING LIK — LISTENING SKILL
A tactile sensitivity skill that detects changes in pressure, direction, and intent through contact.
👉 Ting Lik – Listening Skill (full definition)
LIN WAN KUEN — CONTINUOUS STRIKING
A pressure-based striking concept where attacks flow without pause or hesitation.
👉 Lin Wan Kuen – Continuous Striking (full definition)
MIND & INTERNAL PRINCIPLES
These deeper concepts shape composure, awareness, structure, and internal understanding. They guide the mental and emotional aspects of training.
YI LIK — MIND INTENT
The mental focus that directs movement, precision, and control.
👉 Yi Lik – Mind Intent (full definition)
YING JONG — SHAPE & STRUCTURE
Maintaining correct alignment and body shape while under pressure.
👉 Ying Jong – Shape and Structure (full definition)
MO DAK — MARTIAL VIRTUES
Respect, humility, discipline, and correct conduct, the ethical code within the art.
👉 Mo Dak – Martial Virtues (full definition)
WING CHUN KUEN — BEAUTIFUL SPRING FIST
The overarching philosophy of Wing Chun, balancing simplicity, efficiency, and personal growth.
👉 Wing Chun Kuen – Beautiful Spring Fist (full definition)