One surprise about writing this blog
is that I have written many less book reviews that I expected.
A
few weeks back I did come across an interesting trilogy of books on Wing chun by
Joseph Wayne Smith. Many martial arts have a degree of secrecy, mystery and mythos. Historically
there was sometimes good reason for information control. In the modern world,
however, such practices can be counterproductive. Smith is very interested in
the biomechanics of Wing chun and why somethings may work better than others.
Those
of you that have read my first book will know that I endeavoured to explain the
mechanics behind a number of martial arts and self-defence techniques. There
was not room to teach every Judo throw so instead I taught the concepts that
are common to the majority of such throws. Smith’s books concentrate on Wing
chun and are aimed more at the student who has some familiarity with the
basics. It is not a “how to do it” book, more a “why this works” book
The
three volumes give a detailed analysis of the various forms including those for
the weapons of Wing chun. There are sections on such techniques as pushing
hands and sticky leg.
The
second volume has an interesting discussion of how the techniques of Wing chun
might be complimented by those of Muay Thai and White Crane (Pak hok pai) kung
fu. I hope to expand a little on some of these concepts in later blogs.
Word
to the wise:- The three volumes are collected together as “Wing Chun Kung Fu a
Complete Guide”. Naturally I did not notice this until I had brought all three
volumes separately. Buying the collected version will save you a few pennies so
you can buy one of my books as well.
