Proper Wing Chun technique avoids hard blocks like those seen in Karate, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, or Krav Maga.

Do Wing Chun Blocks Work?

After reviewing the list of common Wing Chun blocks below, it’s important to understand that Wing Chun’s defense is designed to deflect and parry attacks. Not smash against them.

The reason is that smashing attacks requires you to use force-against-force. This technique isn’t practical or safe because the person with more weight or strength wins. And there will always be someone bigger and stronger than you.

On the other hand, a deflection or parry allows you to use your opponent’s force against himself, giving you the advantage of leverage.

Also, the proper defensive technique allows you to use both arms at the same time, enabling you to counter-attack before your opponent finishes his initial attack. This is good kung fu.

You can also check out this defensive guide to Wing Chun blocks to help you keep track of it all.

Wing Chun has an amazing array of defensive moves, which have been borrowed and adapted from other kung fu styles.

Keep in mind, though, some lineages have unique blocks or defensive maneuvers not found elsewhere. If you know of some, please share them at the bottom:

Here’s a list of the most common Wing Chun Blocks:

Wing Chun Hand Blocks:

  • Pak sao
  • Wu sao
  • Man sao
  • Lap sao
  • Fuk sao
  • Tan sao
  • Gan sao
  • Bil sao
  • Chun sao
  • Gum sao
  • Jut sao
  • Bong sao
  • Huen sao
  • Larn sao

Wing Chun Double Hand Blocks:

  • Kan sao
  • Kuan sao

Wing Chun Leg Blocks:

  • Bong gerk
  • Pak gerk
  • Lap gerk
  • Stomp kick

Is Wing Chun Effective in a Street Fight?

What’s the Most Important Defensive Wing Chun Concept?

Attack first.

It’s better to put pressure on your opponent than the other way around.

Besides, real fights, like in the movies or a controlled UFC or boxing match, don’t last long. A “real” fight can end very fast. Attack first, and you have better chances of walking away.

What Other Visitors Have Said

Click below to see contributions from other visitors to this page…

The Tan Sao… 
The Tan Sao is the simplest move and also very effective during a fight. Simple and to the point, Doesn’t need much training to master. +++ Comment …

Readers Chime in of Wing Chun Defensive Techniques 
I believe my favorite (in my current level of training) is Kwan Sau, which is a combination of Taan Sau and low Bong Sau together. My reflexes aren’t …

Bong Sao Not rated yet
Best block by far. Not the first you learn, not the easiest to use but the best. Wing chun practitioner for 6 years under ip chung.

Wing Chun’ers Discuss Defense and Share Knowledge… Not rated yet
The one that works at the moment of attack, or better yet the one that doesn’t require physical contact with the aggressor. === Comment by Rob : Wise …