FAQ — Wing Chun Kung Fu & Self-Defence

Discover a Martial Art You Can Continue Learning for a Lifetime

Wing Chun is a Chinese martial art built on efficient movement, structure and practical self-defence — not raw strength. Students at Schools of Kung Fu Brighton build these skills progressively, with always more to learn.

About Wing Chun

Wing Chun focuses on efficient, close-range movement: striking, footwork, defence, coordination and timing. Rather than matching strength with strength, students learn positioning and body mechanics — and individual techniques build into a deeper understanding of the whole system.

Self-defence is about more than punching and blocking — it’s awareness, judgement and confidence too. No martial art can guarantee an outcome in a real situation, and we never claim otherwise. Our goal is useful skills, awareness and sensible decision-making, avoiding confrontation wherever possible.

Regular training builds: Practical self-defence skills Confidence and self-belief Balance, coordination and fitness Focus, discipline and patience Resilience There’s always more to learn — as your experience grows, so does your understanding.

Grasshoppers (3½–6): Strong foundations through fun, engaging training — coordination, balance, listening, confidence and respect. Tigers (7–13): More structured Wing Chun training, building deeper understanding alongside discipline, focus, confidence and resilience.

No martial arts background needed — most students start as complete beginners. Whether you want self-defence, a different kind of fitness routine, or a new challenge, you’ll build from the foundations up.

Getting Started

No to all three. Complete beginners are welcome at any age — you don’t need to be fit or flexible first, as that develops through training itself. Grasshoppers is for ages 3½–6, Tigers for 7–13, and Adult Wing Chun runs from age 13+ (the instructor can advise on the best fit for younger teens). Wing Chun also doesn’t depend on size or strength, so it suits women and men equally.

You’ll meet your instructor, get introduced to the environment, and be guided through the fundamentals at your level — no prior knowledge expected, and no sparring on day one. Just wear comfortable sportswear (no uniform needed) and bring a bottle of water.

It builds practical skills like movement, positioning, striking and awareness. No martial art can guarantee an outcome in a real situation, and we won’t claim otherwise — our goal is genuine skill, confidence and sensible judgement, not empty promises.

All completely normal concerns. Shy children settle in at their own pace with instructor support; energetic kids get a structured, active outlet that also builds focus; and our programmes emphasise discipline, respect and self-control alongside technique, not aggression.

Yes — a structured syllabus with clear goals and gradings to mark progress along the way.

Classes are led by Head Instructor James Briggs, who’s trained in Wing Chun for over ten years and worked full-time as an instructor for several. Brighton is one of 12 schools within the wider Schools of Kung Fu organisation, backed by our UK Headquarters in Croydon for instructor development, national events and grading.

Book a free trial — we’ll send what you need to know, and your instructor will guide you through the rest.

Your Wing Chun Journey Starts Here

The best way to understand Wing Chun is to experience it. Complete beginners always welcome.