Written by the author: This guide is written by Sifu Kendra Mahon (Kung Fu Kendra), who wrote this book. It describes what the book covers and who it suits. It is not an independent review.
At a glance
- Series: The Way of Wing Chun, Book 5
- Length: About 50 pages
- Formats: Kindle and paperback
- Best for: Students learning or refining Chum Kiu, chi sau practitioners, and readers interested in connection
- Not for: Anyone looking for step-by-step instruction in the form
What the book covers
Eighteen chapters in four parts. Part One covers the move from stillness to movement, readiness for the second form, the meanings of the name, and turning around a stable axis. Part Two is devoted to the bridge: what it is, how to find it, use it, handle pressure at it, and release it. Part Three covers whole-body unity, the kicks, stepping and power from the ground. Part Four looks at connection and boundaries, timing, conflict, the link to chi sau, and Chum Kiu as the middle form of the system. A glossary of terms is included.
Who it suits
- Students beginning Chum Kiu who want to understand what the turning and stepping are for.
- Experienced practitioners looking to connect the form more clearly to chi sau.
- Students of any lineage; the book notes where practice differs and where Traditional Wing Chun has its own emphases.
- Non-practitioners interested in boundaries, timing and handling conflict.
How to read it alongside training
Read Part One before or while you start the form, and revisit it if your Siu Lim Tao structure seems to fall apart when you turn. Read Part Two alongside chi sau and pay attention to whether you push back or collapse under pressure. Part Three pairs well with slow work on the turning stance, feeling for the path of force from the ground up. Form details vary between lineages, so follow your own teacher where the book stays general.
A short excerpt
“The bridge turns guessing into knowing.”
Where to get it
The Philosophy of Chum Kiu: Connection, Movement, and Meeting the World is available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback: Kindle and paperback. Find it on Goodreads under Kung Fu Kendra and Kendra Mahon, or read what students say on the Kung Fu Kendra reviews page. For other Wing Chun books, see our guide to Wing Chun books.
About the author
Sifu Kendra Mahon, known as Kung Fu Kendra, has trained since 2005 and holds Master level (purple sash). She teaches Traditional Wing Chun as it was passed down to her by Master Brian Lewadny, who learned it from Grandmaster William Cheung. She is the author of 13 books and counting, including the ten-book The Way of Wing Chun series.
Frequently asked questions
Is The Philosophy of Chum Kiu a guide to performing the form?
No. It explains what the second form teaches about movement, contact and connection. The form varies between lineages and should be learned from a qualified teacher.
Should I read The Philosophy of Siu Lim Tao first?
It helps, since Chum Kiu builds on the first form, but each book in The Way of Wing Chun stands on its own and can be read in any order.
Who wrote The Philosophy of Chum Kiu?
Sifu Kendra Mahon, known as Kung Fu Kendra. She has trained since 2005, holds Master level (purple sash), and teaches Traditional Wing Chun as it was passed down to her by Master Brian Lewadny, who learned it from Grandmaster William Cheung.
Where can I buy The Philosophy of Chum Kiu?
On Amazon in Kindle and paperback. It is Book 5 of The Way of Wing Chun, and the books can be read in any order.