The Punch Comes from the Heart

Florida Coast Magazine – Holiday 2019 – Known for being one of the only martial arts styles created by a female and also the discipline that Bruce Lee studied before coming to America, Wing Chun Kung Fu has made its way to Jupiter, Florida. Although a variety of martial arts schools exist in the area, Jupiter Wing Chun stands out from the rest by being one of the first to teach traditional Chinese Kung Fu in the style of Moy Yat Wing Chun Kung Fu. Even though the system has been around for approximately 400 years, it has only gained popularity in the United States over the past few decades.

Wing Chun (aka Ving Tsun) Kung Fu is a close-range combat system originating in Southern China. Its roots are derived from the Shaolin Temple. Wing Chun is a concept-based fighting style which emphasizes the body’s centerline and using as little energy as possible to resolve a conflict. It is said that the highest level of Kung Fu is to not have to resort to fighting at all.

In addition to Ving Tsun teaching someone to defend his or her self, the system will also impart relaxation, fitness, and stress relief into one’s life. For these reasons, it is possible for women, children, seniors, and individuals who aren’t physically active, to become experienced practitioners. The system is easy to learn and each individual progresses at his or her own pace.

Sifu James Hindman remarks, “I get a lot of different students from all walks of life. Everyone comes for their own reasons: dealing with stress from work, at home, and other areas of life.

I enjoy helping people in the community cultivate self-improvement. I help individuals develop by teaching them about ‘Kung Fu life’.” Sifu James is a dedicated disciple of Grandmaster Julian Cordero of Palm Beach Wing Chun.

“Kung Fu life” consists of taking principles you learn in class and applying them to everyday situations. Wing Chun will teach you to be relaxed, and when you are relaxed, you make better decisions. Kung Fu will gradually change how you handle problems, personal relationships, and other aspects of your daily routine.  

It is rare to find an art form passed down in its authentic, traditional form, but one must learn Ving Tsun directly through the hands; not by simply reading a book or watching a video. With a decade of experience under his belt, Sifu (meaning ‘Teacher’ in Cantonese) James believes in building a “family atmosphere” focused on refining and maintaining one’s skills. Enriching the community is a staple in Wing Chun etiquette. 

The late Grandmaster Yip Man once said, “Use your martial skill for the good of humanity.” This is why Sifu James invites a wide variety of people to give Wing Chun Kung Fu a chance. You will be surprised how much more you will learn than just self-defense!