The centreline
Protect your own centreline and attack your opponent’s. The shortest path is the fastest.
Kung Fu for adults · 17+
Wing Chun Kung Fu
“If the way is clear, move forward.” One of Wing Chun’s most important principles, on the mat and off it.
Wing Chun · Wing Tjun
Always look for the way forward
Wing Chun (which we also spell Wing Tjun) is a Southern Chinese Kung Fu style known for its efficiency: short, direct movements, defending and attacking at the same time, and controlling the centreline. Power comes from technique and structure, not muscle mass, which makes it suitable for anyone, regardless of height, weight or age.
At Kung Fu Haarlem-Amsterdam, the whole programme, from self-defence techniques to breathing, meditation and nutrition advice, is built around always looking for the way forward. Whatever goal you set yourself, Wing Chun brings it within reach.
Background
What is Wing Chun?
According to tradition, Wing Chun originated around 300 years ago in southern China, in the circles of the Southern Shaolin Temple. The style is named after Yim Wing Chun (詠春), a woman who, legend says, refined the system to defend herself against stronger opponents.
In the 20th century Wing Chun became world-famous through grandmaster Ip Man in Hong Kong and his best-known student, Bruce Lee. Today it is one of the most widely practised Kung Fu styles in the world. In the Netherlands you’ll often see it spelled Wing Tjun or Wing Tsun.
Core principles
Simultaneous
Defend and attack in a single movement, not one after the other.
Relaxed power
Structure and timing instead of muscle. Soft where possible, hard where needed.
Chi Sau
“Sticky hands”: a partner drill that develops sensitivity, reflexes and balance.
Why Wing Chun
The 5 benefits of Wing Chun
Lose weight
Just like at the gym, your body changes: you burn calories, strengthen your muscles and boost your metabolism. Our Fighters Fit classes in particular focus on intense conditioning and strength. You’ll also get nutrition tips.
Health
You breathe better, sleep better and have more energy. A good balance of rest and energy makes you more resilient, and if you do get ill, you recover faster.
Mindset
We value a friendly atmosphere and a positive attitude. You learn to set new goals, see a problem as a challenge and overcome fear and stress.
Confidence
People who practise a martial art tend to be more confident. You literally stand more firmly and become more assertive: in communication, at work and in everyday life.
Self-defence
Wing Chun is a realistic martial art: you learn to defend yourself in situations that actually happen. Including overcoming fear, correct breathing, stress regulation and strong body language.
Class groups
Adult class times
Basic
The starting point for everyone. Learn the basic forms, stance, footwork and your first self-defence techniques.
Leadership
The advanced programme, on the road to black belt. More technique, partner work and Chi Sau.
Fighters Fit
Intense conditioning and strength training using Kung Fu techniques. Great as an extra class (Amsterdam).
Instructor’s course
For advanced students who want to teach (Amsterdam).
HaarlemHoutmarkt 21, 2011 AL Haarlem
Tuesday
- Basic
- Leadership
Friday
- Basic
- Leadership
AmsterdamNieuwpoortstraat 80, 1055 RZ Amsterdam
Monday
- Leadership
- Basic
- Fighters Fit
Wednesday
- Basic
- Leadership
Saturday
- Instructor's course
Reviews
What students say
Sifu’s classes made it possible for me to reach my goal: inner calm.
Tom W.StudentKung Fu restored my confidence in myself, and with it, my confidence in life.
Maartje G.Student“If the way is clear, move forward” is one of the principles we learn. Wing Chun cleared the way for me to keep growing in life.
Edward L.Wing Chun studentFAQ
Wing Chun questions
Is Wing Chun suitable for beginners?
Yes. Everyone starts in the Basic group. You don’t need experience or a particular fitness level; you build that up during class.
Am I too old to start Wing Chun?
Probably not. Wing Chun relies on technique and structure rather than strength or flexibility, so it can be learned well later in life too. Not sure? Talk it through during your trial class.
Is Wing Chun effective for self-defence?
Wing Chun was designed for real life: close range, fast reactions and efficient movement. Besides technique we also train breathing, stress regulation and body language, so you stay calm in a real situation.
What’s the difference between Wing Chun, Wing Tsun and Wing Tjun?
It’s the same style. They are different Western spellings of the Cantonese name 詠春; different schools and lineages each use their own spelling.
How often should I train?
Twice a week is a good rhythm for steady progress. Both Haarlem and Amsterdam have two class evenings per week.
Free trial
Try Wing Chun
Two free, no-obligation trial classes in Haarlem or Amsterdam.
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