Do you accept newcomers to Martial Arts?

Of Course! You are welcome to come along to any of our classes when ever you feel ready. The environment is very friendly and welcoming, and training is practical, safe and fun! Your first session with us is also free !!!

What sort of people attend your classes?

The simple answer is all sorts! Wing Chun does not discriminate is suitable for all those with a keen interest in the art and plenty of enthusiasm. Our youngest student is 17, our oldest is 73 !!! We have people who are experienced martial artists and complete beginners who all muck in and train together, so there is no need to worry about machismo, ego or bullying - they are not tolerated at our club!

I train in other styles / lineages, can I still attend your class?

Our club is open to all, you will not be asked to stop training in your other style, Be wary however of becoming a 'Jack of all trades, master of none'. Cross-training can be very beneficial - it can also lead however, to becoming a very confused martial artist who is unsure of the 'base' that they're working from. In time when you have learnt the basics, you will have the opportunity to learn boxing basics, simple groundwork, locks etc. However, in time you will find that wing chun will generally give you everything you need.

What do I wear?

Please - no silk mandarin suits or rising-sun headbands , Gareth excluded!! ;0) -  Just come along in tracksuit bottoms / shorts, plain t-shirt and trainers. We do not wear uniforms / belts in Wing Chun as they promote hierarchy rather than equality.

How fit do I have to be?

Unless you have a six-pack and can bench press 210, please don't bother us....... Seriously though, Wing Chun does not pit strength-against-strength. Your instructor is a rippling 12 stone and manages to get by so please don't feel you need to be super-strong or fit. If you do have a serious heath problem, please let Stuart Know.

Can I come and watch first?

You are welcome to, but the best way to get a feel for the art is to give it a go!

Is the Instructor qualified?

Si-fu (Coach) Mackinnon is a personal student of, and registered instructor with Masters Eric Li and Samuel Kwok - two of Ip-Chings senior students with a combined 80 years training under their belt. Master Sam Kwok is also the senior representative of Ip Chun. Ip Ching and Ip Chun are the sons of Ip Man, so our lineage is about as string as you can get. Sifu Stuarts teachers also provide seminars for all students at the club, as well as the opportunity to train in Canada and Hong Kong / China.  Stuart is also a registered instructor with the Ving Tsun Athletic Association Hong Kong, British Council for Chinese Martial Arts and the Ip Ching Wing Chun Athletic Association.

How often do I have to attend??

Before you ask this question, you should ask yourself how good you want to be? Wing Chun is an art, not a science, and as such there is no tangible 'start' and 'finish'. If you are just looking for health and fitness, then you would be better off spending your time and money in swimming, running or the gym. The more you attend class, the quicker you will progress so don't get frustrated if you feel your not progressing after attending 1 class a month!! As a student of the association you should attend at least once a week.

Will I get hurt?

Wing Chun is a very safe art to train, and a good student will always show a level of control with his partner. Aggression is a sure sign of ego and benefits neither yourself or your partner. Training progresses at your own pace and you will not be put under any undue pressure. However, please realise that Wing Chun is a martial art, and that you are not attending a basket weaving class!! You are learning to defend yourself against the idiot in the street who couldn't care less if you wake up or not after they've jumped on your head! Sad but true, so please maintain a realistic outlook when attending any martial arts class.

Is there a syllabus?

Yes, and a very comprehensive one divided into Red, Green, Brown and Black Sash. We do not however wear belts. There is an opportunity to grade every 3-4 months assuming you have attended class and put the effort in. If you do not get entered for an assessment, please do not sulk - the instructor has made this decision for the good of you and the club, there will be another on the horizon and you can do it then

Ive trained Wing Chun for many years before, can I pick up where I left off?

No! Whether you are a beginner, advanced, teacher - it doesn't matter, you must work through our syllabus.

Do you teach privately?

Private Tuition can be made available if you feel that is the path for you. Please call Sifu Stuart on 07949 795 925 to discuss.