What does it mean when Wing Chun is referred to as an internal style as opposed to an external style?
Wing Chun is an internal style that develops the internal strength by proper breathing techniques (Chi Gung) and a relaxed body. By developing breathing along with movement as the intensity develops, so does the Chi and internal strength of the practitioner. Unlike other styles that chose to oppose force with force, Wing Chun chooses to economize strength with proper breathing in execution of movements and only use the necessary minimum force to be successful in subduing the opponent. Time is not wasted, and neither is strength, due to a philosophy that dictates the next guy may be just a breath away so there isn’t a breath to waste. Wing Chun can be taught like Tai Chi and practiced without competition, and the benefits are equally compelling; but Tai Chi has lately been passed down to many without the fighting applications. This would be a contradiction of Wing Chun’s purpose of self-defense and defense of others.
