IWC - Brazil

First Section of the Siu Lim Tao Form of the Wing Chun System


The first section of the Siu Lim Tao (SLT) form is fundamental to the Wing Chun system, introducing the Yee Gee Kim Yeung Ma stance. This foundation strengthens muscles, joints, tendons, and bones, grounding the practitioner's body structure. This stance demonstrates the symmetry of the body and the bilaterality necessary to develop defensive, offensive, and manipulative techniques with the hands and arms.

Slowly practicing upper limb movements improves psychomotor coordination and body awareness, disciplining the mind and increasing concentration. Kim Yeung Ma's stationary structure helps calm the mind, promoting physical and mental relaxation. Starting the movements on the left side is crucial, as most people are right-handed, which balances the practitioner's abilities and develops ambidexterity.

During practice, the body's structure should remain still, with body weight evenly distributed (50% on each leg) and the knee angle unchanged to avoid unnecessary movement. The hips should be projected forward and slightly upward, energetically connecting the upper limbs, especially the elbows, generating structural power (Jarn Dai Lik).

The energy should be focused on the target in front, aligned with the body's central median line, projecting like the tip of an isosceles triangle. This ensures that both fists effectively reach the convergent point of the central line in any situation, also utilizing the sensitivity of the hands and arms (chi sao).

The torso must remain still, without swaying or rotation. Direct and economical movements are emphasized, using energy efficiently to defend and attack vital points along the opponent's centerline. The first section of the SLT is an exercise in energy accumulation and refinement, combining smooth and firm movements (Yin and Yang), essential for executing punches with the power of the inch and relaxation.

The practice involves physical exercises that develop energy and correct positions, using slow dynamic tension on the antagonist muscles (biceps and triceps) to generate adequate energy at the elbow. Explosive movements and changes train the use of accumulated energy.

Neglecting the first section of the SLT prevents the development of the energy necessary for effective Wing Chun techniques. The precise angle of each movement must be adjusted according to the opponent's height, with special attention paid to maintaining relaxed shoulders and a natural posture.

In Wing Chun, stances are based on the Theory of Triangles, which activate kinetic and energetic forces, directing them like a ship's bow that opens space in the center of the opponent's body, redirecting and diverting the opposing forces to the sides. This triangular structure separates, divides, or cuts, making it essential for the effective application of the system's techniques.