Sil Lim Tao - The Beginning Little Idea Form

The first of the three forms in the Wing Chun Kung Fu System. It reminds us that in the beginning, the kung fu student has to remember just a little because the learning and understanding of the basics is crucial in order that a good foundation is built. This will ensure further progress.

The form is divided into three parts, each of which has its own vital role in the development of the kung fu student. Success now, ensures success later. Do not chew more than you can eat. Build your kung fu upon the solid foundation of understanding.

For example, the first section teaches the correct structure of the horse, centerline, the punch and emphasizes correct structure of the techniques all based upon relaxation. The elbow is emphasized throughout the first section as your body generates as well as stores energy. In this way, we find that the nature of Sil Lim Tao is to help the student build a good foundation in kung fu in order to progress to the next stage. Thus if the student never understands then he/she will never progress very far in kung fu. The first part of Sil Lim Tao is done very slowly to ensure proper learning and to emphasize proper structure. The mind and body begin to co-ordinate and the training of the "yee", or "intent" begins to take place.

Sil Lim Tao is to be played for a lifetime. The more you do it the more it helps every other aspect of you Wing Chun both physically and mentally. The "horse" or stance is trained as a stationary foundation and the basis for foot work later on. Without Sil Lim Tao, your footwork will not have the balance and unity required.