15/07/2026
I used to practice Aikido. In some ways (use of internal energy, sensitivity and redirecting the attacker's momentum without use of brute force), I find Wing Chun to be similar. I am trying to pass one of Aikido's principles on in my teaching of Wing Chun. It is called 'ukemi', which translates in Japanese to 'receiving body'. Ukemi is about how we respond to our partners/opponents by providing enough force or fight to test their techniques while being respectful and flexible enough to receive their attack. It allows us to learn while our nervous system is in 'calm' mode. It trains our bodies to be sensitive, continue the flow of the initial movement and absorb kinetic energy, which prevents injuries. Good ukemi enables all participants to practice safely, to measure their improvements and to maintain good relationships, creating a sustainable training environment. It requires us to consider each other and to control our competitive egos. It should be practiced with 'fresh mind', even if the exercise is repetitive, as if one does not know what is coming next.
