New Student Guide

Welcome to Moy Yee Hop Ving Tsun Kung Fu!

Welcome to your first day of kung fu class! We are excited to have you join our kung fu family and begin your journey into the art of Ving Tsun kung fu. This new student guide will provide you with all the information you need to have a successful and fulfilling experience in our classes.

First and foremost, it is important to come to class prepared. Make sure to wear comfortable workout clothes that allow for a full range of motion. It is also recommended to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the class. Arrive a few minutes early to introduce yourself to the instructor and get settled in.

During the class, we will focus on building a strong foundation in the fundamental techniques of kung fu. This includes a strong stance, strikes, forms, centerline concepts, and sensitivity drills. Our experienced instructors will guide you through each movement, providing corrections and guidance as needed. Don't worry if you're new to kung fu or have never practiced martial arts before, our classes are designed to accommodate students of all levels.

Remember that learning kung fu is a journey, not a race. It takes time and dedication to master the techniques and principles of this ancient art. Be patient with yourself and trust in the process. The more you practice and commit yourself to your training, the more progress you will see.

As a student, it is important to approach your kung fu practice with respect and discipline. Listen to your instructors and older Kung Fu brothers and sisters and follow their instructions. Treat your fellow students with kindness and support. Kung fu is not just about physical training, but also about developing mental strength and character.

Outside of class, take the time to practice what you have learned. Practice makes perfect, and the more you practice outside of class, the more you will progress. It is also helpful to review any techniques or principles that you may have struggled with during class.

Lastly, don't forget to have fun! Kung fu is not only a great form of exercise but also an opportunity to connect with others and learn to better yourself. Embrace the challenges and the victories that come with your kung fu journey.

We are excited to have you as part of our kung fu community. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to our instructors. We wish you the best of luck and look forward to seeing your growth in kung fu!

Starting Your Kung Fu Journey

We are eager to train and develop you into an advanced Wing Chun practitioner. Our classes promote a relaxed atmosphere and our students are always friendly. It is important to arrive early for class as we value time and strive to maximize training opportunities.

At our academy, we emphasize the importance of respecting each other as training partners before developing friendships between students and instructors. Our focus is on practicing this martial art, acquiring new skills, and honing existing ones.

During your first class, either Sifu or a Senior Student will pair you with an experienced student who will guide you through learning the Wing Chun Chain Punch and the initial section of the first form, Siu Nim Tao. Additionally, Sifu recommends that new students dedicate time to practicing their forms and engage in at least 50 punches per day at home.

Lineage

It is crucial to learn martial arts from a certified instructor who is genuinely invested in your progress.

In the Moy Yat Kung Fu family, the path to becoming an instructor begins by becoming a special student of your Sifu. This ensures that our lineage can be traced back to the founding master of the system.

Our lineage includes esteemed figures such as:

• The Legendary Yip Man (8th Generation)
• Patriarch Moy Yat (9th Generation)
• Grandmaster Moy Yee Hop (10th Generation)
• Sifu James Hindman (11th Generation)

As students of our family, you will belong to the 12th Generation.

We believe in maintaining a professional and authentic approach to teaching martial arts, ensuring that you receive top-quality instruction and guidance.

Group Classes

When it comes to learning Wing Chun, group classes are highly recommended. By working out with a diverse range of students, you will develop a heightened sensitivity towards varying body types and the energy they bring. This experience will prove invaluable in dealing with the countless situations life throws at you, as each person you train with brings their unique approach. A typical class consists of a combination of form practice and two-person sensitivity drills. The instructor leads the group in practicing forms at the start of class and concludes with a lecture on current topics and training methodologies. In order to truly master kung fu, it is essential to engage in both physical training and receive verbal instruction on how to incorporate kung fu principles into your everyday life.

Online Classes

In response to the growing demands of students and the impact of the current economy on their schedules, we are pleased to provide online classes as an alternative learning option. This allows students who are unable to attend physical classes or have inquiries about their training progress to participate remotely. We utilize Zoom as our platform for online classes. Please refer to the current schedule for any fluctuations, as it may be adjusted based on student requirements.

Class Etiquette

Most people come to the martial arts in order to learn how to fight. However, for most of us who stay involved in our study for more than a short while, kung fu begins to teach us how to live life. One can acquire strong fighting prowess, yet that is only a first step. Higher kung fu is further displayed in one’s patience, wisdom and good manners.

The Moy Yat Ving Tsun mo kwoon (school) here which you have affiliated yourself with is part of a larger traditional Chinese martial arts family. By joining the school, you have chosen to become a member of that family. As in any family, there are certain rules of conduct. In the following sections we will explain some of the more important rules, in hopes that you will begin your study on the right foot; and your kung fu will grow strong.

Show Respect for the Kwoon.

• When you see Sifu, be sure to bow as you have been instructed. Likewise, when you first enter the training floor, bow to the grandmasters. If you light incense as a show of respect to our ancestors and grandmasters - always light three. When you leave the floor, likewise bow to the grandmasters. When you say goodbye to Sifu, bow as well.
• Keep the Kwoon clean. All todai (students) are not only expected to clean up after themselves but they are also required to keep the Kwoon clean & presentable at all times. We are your Kung Fu Family and the Kwoon is to be treated with as much respect as your own Home.
• When you train with someone on the floor, be sure that you show respect for each other by bowing to each other before you start and when you are finished.
• Always wear clean and proper attire. When training at the Kwoon, your full uniform is required: designated class t-shirt, red striped adidas pants and black kung fu shoes only. No jewelry at all.
• Maintain good hygiene, not only for yourself, but out of respect and courtesy for your training partners. Shower before coming to class, keep your nails trimmed to avoid accidentally injuring or scratching others and bring a small towel to wipe up excessive sweat.
• No drug use. Kung Fu is serious business and having a clear mind and body while practicing is of the utmost importance. Coming to class while under the influence of any substances whatsoever is explicitly not permitted.
• No weapons of any kind are allowed at the Kwoon. The Luk Dim Poon Kwan (wooden pole) and Baat Jam Do (butterfly swords) that we use during practice should be regarded as training tools to further emphasize our studies and improve upon the techniques we are learning. They are not to be used on each other in any form outside of our training curriculum.
• No horseplay or loud talking is allowed in the Kwoon. It is expected that when you are on the floor, you are seriously engaged in the study of Ving Tsun. If you wish to chit-chat, please leave the floor so as not to distract others.
• Sihings & sijes are expected to take seriously their role as teachers of sidai. Similarly, sidai should respect their sihings & sijes and defer to them as a matter of courtesy. If a conflict arises the student should discuss the matter honestly and openly with the offending party. If there is still a problem, alert a senior brother/sister or Sifu.
• Bullying and sexual harassment of any kind will simply not be tolerated. It is the goal of the Kwoon to cultivate Kung Fu philosophy, ethical treatment of others and respect. Poor behavior that does not fit that model will be swiftly dealt with.
• Video recording and/or photography during class is not permitted. If you wish to record something learned in class to study later, defer to Sifu or one of the sihing/sije and they will provide a link to approved study materials for your personal reference.

There are many other “rules”, or what might better be described as matters of etiquette, which you will eventually learn. As your Kung Fu Life grows, they will become part of you and your own kung fu will naturally expand.

Violation or repeat infraction of these rules is grounds for immediate expulsion from the school. Please follow them accordingly.

Hat Tip to Sifu Pete Pajil (Moy Bah Hugh) Moy Yat Ving Tsun Martial Intelligence

Chinese Names

Sidai - Junior Male Classmate

Simui - Junior Female Classmate

Sihing - Senior Male Classmate

Sije - Senior Female Classmate

Si-fu - Master

Sisuk - Master's Junior Male Classmate (Junior Uncle)

Sibak - Master's Senior Male Classmate (Senior Uncle)

Sigung (Master's Master)

Sitai Gung - Master's Master's Master

Sijo - "Founder of the System"

Ving Tsun Rules of Conduct

• ​Remain disciplined
• Conduct yourself ethically as a martial artist
• Practice courtesy and righteousness
• Serve the society and respect your elders
• Love your fellow students
• Be united and avoid conflicts
• Limit your desires and pursuit of bodily pleasures
• Preserve the proper spirit
• Train diligently
• Maintain your skills
• Learn to develop spiritual tranquility
• Abstain from arguments and fights
• Participate in society
• Be moderate and gentle in your manners
• Help the weak and the very young
• Use martial skills for the good of humanity
• Pass on the tradition
• Preserve this Chinese art and rules of conduct

Lucky Money

Lucky Money, also known as Hung-bow, is a red envelope that contains an even amount of money. It is symbolic of positive energy, happiness, and good luck. This traditional gift can be a way to express best wishes to the recipient on special occasions and holidays. 

It is commonly given to sifu, sigung, elders (sibak & sisuk), and instructors as a gesture of goodwill. Students may also present hung-bow to their Sifu or Si-hing when they want to contribute to school projects or address any concerns.

The giving of lucky money should be done in private and with both hands, placing the envelope horizontally between them. To ensure good luck, it is important to give an even dollar amount.

You can find red envelopes at Asian grocery stores or online; just be mindful that the design on the envelope might convey a different meaning than your intended message, such as "happy birthday" or "happy Valentine's Day."

Siu Nim Tao

The first form you will learn is the Siu Nim Tao form. The name "Siu Nim Tao" translates to "little idea", "small thought"or what we like to call "a thinking form". Sil Nim Tao will teach students precise hand positioning and movement, internal power, structure, and build a strong horse foundation. The form also introduces students to the centerline concept, which is perhaps the most important principle in Wing Chun Kung Fu. The form should be practiced in a slow and very relaxed manner. The first part of the form will teach you the Yee Jee Kim Yeung Ma stance which is very important to learn to grow a strong foundation.

Sifu will have a senior student train you in the Siu Nim Tao form. He ask that you practice this form at least three times a day.

Siu Nim Tao

- Siu Nim Tau comes first; Do not force progress in training.

- A weak body must start with strength improvement.

- Do not keep any bad habit.

- Yee Jee Kim Yeung Ma

Train the chi by controlling the Tan Tien.

- To maintain good balance of strength, grip the ground with the toes.

- To release chi from the Tan Tien, will enable proper release of power.

- Sink the elbow and drop the shoulders; Guarding the centerline to protect both flanks.

- There are one hundreds of moves, all practical and real; Thousands of variations can be used, aiming for practical use and not beauty.

- Internally develop the chi; externally train the tendons, bones and muscles.

- Tan Sau, Bong Sau, Fok Sau, Wu Sau, and Huen Sau; their wonder grows with practice.

- Each movement must be clear and crisp. Timing must be observed.

- Practice once a day, more will cause no harm.

Sun Character Fist

The Wing Chun Chain Punch

One of the first things you will learn is the Wing Chun Chain Punch. It is unique to our system and has many benefits. The fist hit with the bottom of the three knuckles, resembling the chinese character "Sun", so it is referenced as sun character fist. A senior student will train this to you in detail when you begin. Sifu recommend doing 50 punches a day at home to start.

Pak-Sao

Two Person Sensitivity Drills

One of the first exercises you will learn is Pak -Sao

This is drill to increase your sensitivity, improve your timing, forward energy, distance, building your horse to be strong, and teaching the student to protect his or her centerline. Some confuse this as a fighting drill but it is not. It is a two handed technique that defends and attacks at the same time. Make sure when you practice with your partner to let the older student attack first. An advanced student will go over this with you in class.