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FLEXIBILITY WHEN YOU NEED IT

In Wing Chun Kung Fu there is the question of flexibility. Why do we need flexibility? Which areas of our body need more flexibility? How do we stretch those areas properly for increased mobility in Wing Chun?
Before these questions can be answered it should be understood that developing muscle mass through resistance exercises without a stretching program will be counter productive to your Wing Chun training. For this reason stretching is essential.
WHY STRETCH?
When training for proficiency in Wing Chun there are movements (blocks, strikes, emergency techniques) that require unencumbered reaction, timing, and speed. As our bodies are developed through the repetition of the motions in Wing Chun, we start to develop groups of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Stretching these ?groups? is key for future progress.  Muscles are tissues composed of fibers that once contracted, produce movement in the body. Tendons are the connective tissue that attach muscles to bones. Ligaments connect bones to bones at the joints.  The basic motions of sticky hands and all of the Wing Chun forms will naturally tune your body into those groups or areas that require additional flexibility. Add to this the need for overall flexibility during combat, which needs no explanation.  WHICH GROUPS DO WE STRETCH?
For all practical purposes, the Wing Chun practitioner should stretch all muscle, tendon, ligament groups. (see illustrations) Higher levels of skill cannot be achieved without routine stretching of the groups associated with tan sau, fok sau, and bong sau motion. Through stretching and applied motions the tendons and ligaments will naturally be elongated and toned.  HOW DO WE STRETCH?
Remember not to force the stretch or pull the stretch abruptly. Rather, hold the stretch For 60 seconds or more. Stretching is easy, and easy means being able to perform simple stretches just about any where at any time. It is important to repeat the same stretch two or three times for flexibility to actually be gained. When beginning the stretch hold it at a point where there is a comfortable tension for a minute. After a brief rest, repeat the stretch with added tension until a deep stretch is gained, hold for at least a minute. Rest. If possible repeat again for a longer period (two to three minutes). Do not continue if you experience any pain. Remember to listen to your body. Aggravating muscle groups by over stretching will only take more time off your Wing Chun.
Learn to have fun while stretching, your path in Wing Chun should be focused but fun also. Your progress in Wing Chun will benefit through stretching.  Written by Sifu Ed Basile

Windy City Wing Chun Gung Fu Federation, Inc © 2012