Is Kung Fu effective in a fight? - Part 2

So we know now that the effectiveness of any type of Kung Fu is not just down to the skill itself but the practitioner. Someone could study the most effective form of fighting art or self-defence, but not have the ability to use it. This then begs the question, how do you know if someone’s Kung Fu is effective, especially if you are looking for a Kung Fu class and don’t have experience to tell you.

Years ago, I had the chance to go to China to meet my TaiSigong, Grandmaster Ip Chun. It was for the opening of the Ip Man Tong in Foshan. There were hundreds of Wing Chun practitioners from all over the world who came and a lot of ceremony and events happening. Despite this Grandmaster Ip Chun still made time for my Sigong and to teach a seminar for us. The one thing that stood out for me more than anything was that during the seminar, Grandmaster Ip Chun did some Chi Sau (Sticking Hands) training with every one of us. At this time, he was in his 80’s and in some cases he was doing Chi Sau with people twice his size and less than half his age, while allowing us to attack any way we wanted. Despite this, no-one managed to lay a hand on him.

I often think back on this and realise that my Sigong and Sifu do that same thing. They will happily Chi Sau or do Pushing Hands with anyone, even beginners who can be unpredictable because they do not know much of the skill yet, and still allow them to attack any way they choose. They always manage to control the other person, and not with greater strength or by being faster, but through their technique and skill.

I think this type of example is the simplest and best way to see the level of someone’s Kung Fu. If they will allow anyone to come to the class and then try to attack any way they can, and still keep control force or aggression, this is a high level skill. It is something I have carried over to my own classes and I believe the the best way to judge a skill.

So the way to know if someone’s Kung Fu is effective? Can they use it to face any attack and stay calm and in control? If so, then this is good Kung Fu.