FAQ: The Go Slow to Go Fast Principle in Wing Tsun

To help you getting more out of your training and understanding of Wing Tsun, I’ve created this FAQ section to distill the concepts that I write in the longer posts. Do you let me know how you find it!

1. What does "Go Slow to Go Fast" mean in Wing Tsun?

"Go Slow to Go Fast" means that by training slowly and smoothly, you develop better muscle memory, reaction time, and control, allowing you to move faster and more efficiently in real-world situations. It also means you learn to control your breath, your body, your emotions and expand your awareness

2. Why is Siu Nim Tao performed slowly?

Siu Nim Tao, the first form of Wing Tsun, as a starting point is performed slowly to develop precision, breath control, and mindfulness. It allows practitioners to internalise structure and relaxation before applying speed. Later you can play with pace, power and the speed - but at a foundation level it is always slow and flowing

3. How does slowing down improve reaction time?

By slowing down movements and focusing on breath, alignment, relaxation and effective body movements, the nervous system processes movement more deeply, leading to faster and more intuitive reactions under pressure.

4. How does Wing Tsun develop the fastest punch?

Wing Tsun punches are fast because they use:

  • The shortest-line principle (direct path to the target)

  • Non-telegraphed strikes (no wasted movement or pulling back)

  • Relaxed explosiveness (speed generated through efficiency and explosiveness)

  • The natural ‘spring’ in the body from the fascia and combining with low elbow dynamics

The are all based on the foundation of calmness and naturalness

5. What is the role of stillness in Wing Tsun?

Stillness allows you to see more, react better, and act decisively. It prevents unnecessary movement and ensures that actions are precise and effective. It also allows you to have emotional control when the unexpected happens rather than being at the whim of external events.

6. Why is urgency often an illusion in decision-making?

Many bad decisions stem from artificial time pressure (e.g., sales tactics, external deadlines). Siu Nim Tao teaches practitioners to pause, assess, and act wisely rather than reacting out of fear or anxiety.

7. How does slowing down impact leadership and daily life?

Slowing down helps leaders and individuals:

  • See more clearly under stress

  • Make better, more thoughtful decisions

  • Radiate calmness and confidence to others

This principle extends beyond Wing Tsun to business, personal development, and behavioural mastery.

8. How can I practice the “Go Slow to Go Fast” principle?

  • Train Siu Nim Tao regularly to develop breath control and awareness

  • Slow down when making decisions—see clearly before acting

  • Practice seeing more in high-pressure situations

  • Maintain relaxation even when performing fast movements

9. Where can I learn more about these concepts?

You can experience this principle firsthand at our Kwoon in Bromley or through our online course, which includes Chi Gung, meditation, and Wing Tsun foundations.

Si-Fu Julian HitchComment