Our Principles: A Code of Conduct and a Way of Life
We adhere to the following code of conduct, which draws inspiration from the original Wing Chun Code of Conduct written by Sijo Ip Man (right), and the Noble Eightfold Path of Buddhism, alongside other moral teachings common to many philosophies including Daoist thought and Stoicism, among others. Please note that we impose no set spiritual dogma on our students, other than to encourage a questioning mindset in order to develop their own personal spirituality. We require only the related virtuous conduct that arises from observance of these Principles. Our training is fully inclusive – and not contradictory – to anyone of any spiritual or religious background, or none, and always will be.
All students are bound by the first three Principles. The fourth Principle applies to those who are undertaking the training necessary to take the title of Sifu.
The First Principle of Internal Virtue
Cultivate discipline, balance and learning.
This principle concerns itself with your thoughts. Conduct yourself ethically in all matters. Maintain internal balance and take care of yourself in all aspects of life. Maintain a questioning, logical mindset and follow the path of learning. Develop your mind with education, inspiration and meditation. Seek the truth of all things.
The Second Principle of External Virtue
Love others and work for the greater good.
This principle concerns itself with your words and actions. Be united and avoid conflicts. Work together with others for mutual benefit. Cultivate respect, humility, honour and integrity, and demonstrate them through every interaction with others.
The Third Principle of Gongfu
Train with diligence, become indomitable and progress with the evolution of Gongfu.
You are a martial artist. Being a martial artist is something that you are, not just something that you do. Embody the path of progress and seek to better yourself continually, actively seeking out new ways to progress. Cultivate a thirst for knowledge, understanding and development. Accept no domination or imposed limitations. Work for your own empowerment so that you can work for the empowerment of others. Share the way of Gongfu with others so that it may live and evolve.
The Fourth Principle of the Sifu
Walk the path of mastery.
Become a living expression of Gongfu.
Cultivate mastery in all aspects of your art. Open the door to a new chapter in the journey by joining the ranks of our most masterful exponents. Learn how to teach so that you can teach how to learn. Use your expertise to teach others. Dedicate yourself to not only your own progress but that of your students.
How We Train:
Best Practice for Martial Artists
Expectations, Norms, Etiquette and Practicalities:
We are not an overly formal group, and train in a relatively informal and relaxed atmosphere that is welcoming and inclusive. That said, there are some norms that we operate with, which are detailed below. This list is not exhaustive, and for a wider perspective please refer to our Principles, which offer a much broader look at what it means to be an Evolutionary martial artist.
Salutation is to be given on entering and exiting the 武館 Wǔguǎn (training hall) with a bow. Salutation with a bow is also to be given when joining a student or group for a drill, and when leaving them as well.
Payment is to be given before the session begins so that we know who has paid. (We trust you, but it’s just much easier this way!)
Hygiene is essential. Clothes, shoes and hands, etc must be clean. Any cuts, abrasions, etc must be covered with a plaster, bandage or athletic tape.
Safety is also essential. Clothing and footwear should be appropriate for physical activity, long hair should be tied safely and fingernails should be clean and short so as to not scratch our training partners. Jewellery should not be worn due to the risk of injury, and if watches/biometric trackers are worn then they are best covered with a sweatband for protection. Those who prefer to train barefoot may do so, but must do so at their own risk. The premises are inspected and drills are designed so as to be safe for students wearing appropriate footwear, so this is a risk for the individual to manage themselves if they choose to train barefoot. Please ensure that all belongings are placed safely at the edge of the room, and that they are not on the floor where they may become a tripping hazard. EMA branded gear is not mandatory, but for those who wish to purchase it our online shop is available here.
Respect is crucial. Everyone should expect to receive it from everyone else at all times. When an instructor is giving instructions, they should have the undivided attention of everyone in the room. These instructions should be followed closely, not just for the reason of respect but also for the safety of everyone participating. Failure to follow the instructions given for a drill can result in increased risk of injury, which is not tolerated.
Openness and honesty is always the best way to get the most out of your training. If we don’t understand something, or are struggling, we must never be afraid to ask for help. Similarly, students who have an injury or condition that affects training must ensure that their instructor and training partner/s know about it so they can work around it and not affect their recovery.
Focus is necessary for anyone who wishes to make progress. We must listen attentively to instructions, then train with purpose, following them closely to the best of our ability. Socialising is of course more than welcome before and after the session, but we must avoid idle chat and distraction, remaining focused on training during the session. When transitioning to another drill, finding a partner or getting ready for the next section of the lesson, we must do so as quickly as possible so as to maintain the flow and momentum of the session.
Integrity is part of our Way. In line with our Principles, and our adherence to the law, any misuse of what is learned in training, antisocial, unlawful or unethical behaviour will result in immediate dismissal.
Please note that as we do not operate in an unnecessarily formal manner, students who require a drink, break or to go to the toilet are to find the best time to efficiently do so themselves – there is no need to ask for permission for these basic human rights. Similarly, if any form of contact or drill is too uncomfortable for a student, perhaps because it triggers a trauma-induced response in them for any reason, then they must feel free to inform an instructor at any time. We push our students to become the best they can be, but we will never force anyone into doing something they are not ready for.
Image credit: Wing Chun code of conduct by Sijo Ip Man, image courtesy of Kwok Wing Chun.
Evolutionary Martial Arts 