Sil Lum Tao Demonstration

The following is a video of the first form of the Wing Chun system, the Sil Lum Tao, performed by Sifu Danny Terrell of the Progressive Martial Arts Training Center in New Iberia, Louisiana. Not to be used without permission.

Sil Lum Tao is the first form in the Wing Chun system. Within SLT are the basic and advanced principles and concepts of Wing Chun, the Structure of the body, presentation and positions of the tools utilized. A catalog of sort. Therefore we tend to associate the SLT as the beginning form as well as the advanced form.

Two major principles essential to Wing Chun is centerline and simplicity. The centerline is guarded meticulously with hands on center and with the elbows down and in. Movement is small and very efficient, utilizing subtle shifts of the body to deflect, evade and counterstrike all in one motion.

At its most advanced level, contact with the opponent is maintained at all times to constantly check arms and legs, trap and utilize the opponent's movement to guide and even to increase power. Once the first blow is struck, the Wing Chun practitioner will march an opponent back with a constant barrage of swift, low kicks to disrupt the stance, and a flurry of cycle punches that serve as both offense and defense, batting everything off center and continuing in for the strike.

Because of its simplicity, Wing Chun can be used effectively by beginning practitioners; also because of its simplicity, at its most advanced, Wing Chun is a devastatingly efficient style.

Level I Wing Chun classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:30-8:00pm.
Level II classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:30-9:00pm.

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