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 1
- Length: About 68 pages
- Formats: Kindle and paperback
- Best for: Students of any lineage, other martial artists, and curious readers
- Not for: Anyone looking for step-by-step technique instruction
What the book covers
Twelve chapters in four parts. The first part covers the origins of the art and its core principles: the centerline, economy of motion, and softness with structure. The second covers meeting an opponent: receiving and escorting force, simultaneous attack and defense, sensitivity, and facing. The third looks at the art’s cultural roots, including Chan Buddhism, Daoism and the kuen kuit. The last part asks how the principles work outside the training hall, and closes with the relationship between teacher, student and lineage. A glossary of Wing Chun terms is included.
Who it suits
- Beginners who want to understand why their teacher keeps correcting the same small things.
- Experienced students of any lineage who want words for principles they already feel.
- Martial artists of other styles curious about how Wing Chun thinks.
- Readers who have never trained and want principles they can use in daily life.
How to read it alongside training
Read it slowly, one chapter at a time, and take one idea into your next session. The chapter on economy of motion pairs well with Siu Lim Tao practice: look for wasted distance, effort, motion and attention in your own form. The chapter on sensitivity pairs well with chi sau. When the book explains something differently from your class, bring it to your teacher as a question.
A short excerpt
“Wing Chun begins in stillness because it believes that everything useful in a fight, and perhaps in life, grows out of a calm and well-organized center.”
Where to get it
The Philosophy of Wing Chun: Simplicity, Balance, and the Straight Path 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 Wing Chun a technique manual?
No. It explains the principles behind Wing Chun, such as the centerline, economy of motion and sensitivity. It does not give step-by-step instructions for forms or drills, which should be learned from a qualified teacher.
Do I need to train in Wing Chun to read it?
No. It is written for Wing Chun students, martial artists of other styles and readers who have never trained.
Who wrote The Philosophy of Wing Chun?
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 Wing Chun?
On Amazon in Kindle and paperback. It is Book 1 of The Way of Wing Chun, and the books can be read in any order.