WCI Review - Wayne Belonoha - Workshop 15: Bong Geuk — Ving Tsun Kick Defense

Another volume in the expansive “Workshop” series by Sifu Wayne Belonoha, focussing on, “kicking and blocking of kicks”, and, “how does Wing Chun execute several different kicks and how do we handle people who themselves are kickers.” Throughout this submission, the audience is invited into the virtual classroom to get a leg up on a technique that is sometimes underserved as a result of the prevailing perception that the system is a hand technique-oriented one. From form to foot, this concise tutorial volume covers all lines of interest, from demonstration to application, in Sifu Belonoha’s always well-produced high-definition videos.

Before things kick-off (pun intended) he covers the core challenges and ideals regarding the employment of kicks. “A kick is difficult to land on a moving target”, he states, adding that a person who is well trained in a kicking-based style is equally as quick, proficient and effective as the puncher. Acknowledging further that the Wing Chun practitioner must be aware and respect the opponent’s striking resource of discipline, and the inherent damage one is subject to in engaging such an individual.

Sifu Belonoha then continues by sharing some fighting concepts in principles that echo the universal tenets of Wing Chun: “hands to hands, feet to feet,” in attacking the attack, controlling distance, and timing. With the support of one of his students, the two explore and demonstrate (with some playfulness and comic relief infused) how to recognise and react to facing off at range, setting the stage for the first series of drilling to get the footwork moving.

One of the feature techniques, as is outlined in the volume’s title, is what he refers to as Bong Geuk as a means to block the incoming kick. In his detailed explanation, the audience is shown the structure and mechanics of the action from point of initiation, through a range of motions, to the final position in which one finds oneself having bridged the gap to a distance where hand strikes may be employed.

The next step is building on the base with the introduction of drilling with the Bong Geuk. First, a no-contact drill is introduced in developing ones balance, awareness and activation. As the tutorial flows forward there is also a flood of fighting concepts shared to support the successful practice, and ultimately the employment, of the featured leg technique, with supporting angles of engagement to reinforce the initiating footwork.

Sifu Belonoha communicates a great deal of information in helping you get a leg up on your training and opponent. All the while inviting you into his classroom with an opportunity to expand your understanding, experience and perspectives from the ground up. The video is not segmented into chapters, which will find the viewer pausing and reviewing the content with accessible ease to dissect points of interest with how well filmed this instalment is as well as taking notes of the many information panels edited in for expanded content.

Wayne Belonoha - Workshop 15: Bong Geuk — Ving Tsun Kick Defense
Language: English
Running Time: 51 min.
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