Wing Chun Self Defense Chicago

My Wing Chun is better than your Wing Chun...

2011-07-31T15:11:00.004-05:00

The never ending debate of who's Wing Chun is "real" or "better" will never go away, nor will it help you in your journey for making yourself the best martial artist you can be.

In the Wing Chun community, we are all victims, and sometimes contributors (myself included at one point) of the mud slinging game of saying, "oh his/her Wing Chun is wrong...its garbage!"

I have been exposed to some fantastic Wing Chun and some sub par Wing Chun. What makes it fantastic or sub par? My opinion and my opinion only. And this is something that we should all keep in mind when we continue our training.

I have had great training experiences in Wing Chun. Who is to say that person A's Wing Chun is better than person B's? And if one person's is better than the other, is it Wing Chun or is it the practitioner?

Keep in mind, that styles and systems do not make fighters...fighters make fighters.

Just like art, the artist uses paint to create the image of his or her expression. In doing so, how can we accuse him or her of using the paint wrong?

Yes, in Wing Chun we have certain guidelines to follow...obviously throwing a hook punch cannot be called a centerline punch, and if someone shifts with their weight placed on their front foot, we cannot consider this correct... But how can we say that someone's Wing Chun is bad or wrong simply because our perception of it is wrong?

Master Michael Wong of youtube fame has a great philosophy...he has no opinion.

Some would consider that his Wing Chun, in point, is wrong... And in some frequent cases I agree. He mis-translates what some terms mean, uses drills that do not make sense for Wing Chun and has forms that aren't exactly traditional. But, his goal is to make people fighters.

He uses the core concepts of Wing Chun to promote fighting and self defense...and his fighting ability is impressive. So, is his Wing Chun wrong or is it HIS Wing Chun?

Or Leung Ting and how people criticize him openly for saturating and demeaning the art... Has he not directly or in part produced some of the most deadly Wing Chun fighters?

Ip Man taught several students... Why do each of them have different abilities? Wong Shun Leung did the same and so on. Why are each of us open to the interpretation of Wing Chun, yet people still will say, "Oh, his Wing Chun is bad?"

Personally, I do not care who a person trains under, I care their ability and understanding. One of my former Sifu's had an impressive Wing Chun resume...however a man who is 6'3" can never understand the needs of Wing Chun for shorter person, therefor his understanding was muddied. My current Sifu does not train directly under Ip Chun or Ip Ching as others do plaster their resume with...yet my Sifu's ability is second to none in direct combat applicability, his reflexes are surgical and deadly and his Chi Sao is devastating.

Wing Chun is for Self Defense and Combat. I enjoy Chi Sao greatly, however Chi Sao is the tool and not the goal of Wing Chun and many of us forget that.

In David Peterson's book about Wong Shun Leung, he commented how his Sifu evolved his Wing Chun through constant thinking, training, and expression. That is your responsibility as well.

We must criticize ourselves so that we never end the journey of our training.

All of your opinions help me to become a better Wing Chun fighter and I hope to do the same in return.

Dominick Izzo
Chief Instructor
Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun Self Defense Chicago and the Northwest Suburbs

Perfect One Thing

2011-07-16T23:45:00.004-05:00

As Americans we have this fantastic sense of entitlement in the notion of "instant gratification."

Kung Fu means skill developed through hard work. Kung Fu is NOT instant gratification and when choosing a self defense program, you as a student have the responsibility to keep that in mind before you walk through the door of someone's school.

You have to be willing to dedicate yourself in exerting effort toward learning a new skill.

Take pride in knowing that the basic movements and techniques you will be initially learning are no different than when an art student first learns how to hold and use a paint brush.

Through time, dedication, patience and practice, the artist learns his or her own ways to use the brush, paints, lighting all to create what they see as art.

It is the same with Martial Arts.

In my Wing Chun classes, my students learn the Wing Chun Centerline Punch on their first class. It is the very same punch that they will be doing throughout their Wing Chun training even if years pass.

Students must understand that like the brush, the punch is only one of many tools the artist has at his / her disposal and must learn different techniques for using it.

Come to class with an open mind, but more importantly a strong drive to master one thing at a time.

If you have a brush but no paint, you cannot express yourself.

The same holds true for Wing Chun training. Master the punch, the stance, the footwork and all the tools we use in Wing Chun. Master the concepts. The time spent training should be something we look forward to as advancement in our skill...and not the advancement itself.

Dominick Izzo
Owner, Chief Instructor
Izzo Training Systems

Wing Chun Self Defense in Chicago and Northwest Suburban Area

Range

2011-07-16T21:12:00.002-05:00

In today's world of self defense training you have what we call "ranges".

There is kickboxing range; a range where you are several feet from your attacker, allowing you to use your longest weapon, your kicks.

Close Quarter Range; where you get to use strikes and elbows while in a balanced standing position and your attacker is also standing.

Clinch / Tie Up Range; the range which gets you closer to your opponent allowing you to "tie up" and hold your attacker, transitioning into taking him down.

Ground Fighting Range; grappling and striking while on the ground.

Broken down these ranges can absolutely be trained within their specific conceptual ideas... but the problem becomes the "concern" a student has then on capitalizing on a specific range in actual application of techniques.

In other words, if you break down these ranges for your students, teach them the very nature of each one as a separation from the whole (the fight itself) the student loses the fluidity of the whole and focuses on what his or her strengths are, thus giving them an insecurity in one or more ranges. I.E. why I disagree with most Women's Self Defense programs starting their female students on the ground rather than on their feet. One nationally known instructor commented on the fact that women should practice on the ground because that is where they will end up. My question, is why plant that seed of insecurity in your student's head instead of turning their weakness into strength?

Example:

When I was a collegiate wrestler I knew that the "whole" was the 6 minute match and the outcome of me winning or losing. The "ranges" were NEUTRAL (take down range) TOP or BOTTOM where either myself or my opponent was on top of the other. I excelled at bottom, I was keen on feeling the movement of my opponent and had the ability to use his movement against him to generate a reversal for points or a pin. I was recognized as one of the most tactical bottom wrestlers in my region because of my ability. I used my explosive leg power, strong back and positional awareness to win. But why was I only able to use these tools on the bottom? Were they not applicable in all three ranges?

The psychology of that was when the first whistle blew, I wasn't thinking about taking down my opponent for the win, rather how I would get to the bottom position so I could use my strengths.

If I had take the same tools that I had successfully employed in the bottom position (leverage, sensitivity, foot position, etc.) and applied those to the neutral or even top positions, I would have been a more well rounded wrestler.

The issue was that when broken down I was defeated mentally in a specific area...NOT the whole, rather the area; the range.

Students must understand that the nature is to win the fight at all cost.

I understand that lesson plans and outlines break this goal down to a training point. However, this is where Wing Chun Chi Sau training is elite self defense training amongst all other forms of training.

If you have an enemy who is 5'7" another one who is 6'2" and one more who is 6'5" would you train to fight them differently?

Some may answer of course.

But I propose this; you will always be the height and physical structure you are (based on physical maturity of aging.) Your three enemies all have to use their weapons (hands, feet, elbows) to reach you. Your enemy must adapt to you...you must not fight their fight, rather make them fight yours.

You need to be confident that no matter what the range, your physical dynamics will remain the same and ALL your tools of fighting can be used in ALL the ranges you train in. You must discover how to use these tools.

Wing Chun allows students superior understanding of their ability better than any other training system available.

Ground or standing up, Wing Chun gives the student the skills and understanding of those skills and furthermore the creative evolution of their skills for any fighting circumstance.

Dominick Izzo
Chief Instructor
Izzo Training Systems

Wing Chun Self Defense in Chicago and the Northwest Suburban Area

www.izzo-training.com

Thoughts on Wing Chun Concepts

2011-06-22T21:24:00.002-05:00

Concepts and thoughts of Wing Chun Self Defense.

Keeping in mind that when we refer to "defense" in Wing Chun, it is somewhat contradictive in that we never really defend. Even our movements which are defensive, we still apply the mindset that we are attacking an incoming attack. Hence on of our concepts, "Attack the Attack".

Also, the concept of exploding energy (your strike) from ANY position. In a real fight, you will not have time to wind up or crank your fist back before launching your strike, so you must develop this skill. This means having the ability to fire a punch from any distance, be it 2 feet or 2 inches. Anyone who has seen Bruce Lee do his 1 inch punch would marvel at someone who can do such a transference of energy...but know that you have the same ability.

Train over and over, and SLOW. The slower you train the more you will understand your capability and speed will become a byproduct.

Also, your mindset when we train must be relaxed YET aggressive at the same time. The more you train, the more this concept will make sense.

Wing Chun is a very internal art in that you must concentrate on YOU more than the attacker or the incoming attack. The more you focus on your structure, form, centerline, concepts and principles, the more you will negate incoming attacks with ease and economy of motion...and fire off counter attacks with devastation and ruthlessness.

I cannot stress it enough...Please, PLEASE, do the form. Pick it apart, do it section by section over and over. Sil Lim Tao is everything. It equips and prepares you with the tools and understanding of how to use them. Trust yourself, train and be patient...in time everything will just click and make sense.

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
Wing Chun Self Defense for Chicago

The strength of 90

2011-04-02T10:05:00.002-05:00

There is a concept of not letting your guard getting outstretched or drawn past the point of 90 degrees.

In Wing Chun we offer our Man Sau / Wu Sau guard hands a bit further outstretched than most other fighting styles do.

Consider the close guard of the boxer or the drop guard of some kickboxing styles. Even Muay Thai has a high guard, yet the position of the hands in relation to the elbows are within the plane of a 90 degree angle.

The goal of an attack on our enemy is to strike their body (centerline) and not their arms. After all, the arms are controlled by the body. If I hold my hands up in a guard position, the initial point of contact for my torso from my guard is a matter of inches, however, if I hold my hands up in my Wing Chun guard, the span of safety I have from contact with my hands to my torso greatly increases.

The issue then becomes being aware of our greatest strength and balance within our arm's reach.

Learning to feel energy (be it incoming or pulling) and the effect it has on your balance is necessary to understanding how much you can take with your body as a unit.

Have your training partner place his/her hands on your forearm and begin to slowly push into your core. Starting from a Man Sau guard, allow the energy to come into your core and determine how far past 90 degrees before you start to feel uncomfortable with your balance.

Do the same with a Wing Chun Lap Sau from your Wu Sau position...feel how far your balance will hold with increasing pulling energy before you start to fall forward.

You will learn how far forward and how far drawn in you can be before your fighting balance seems to suffer.

Dominick Izzo

For Wing Chun Self Defense Classes in the Chicago area visit, www.izzo-training.com

Don't Force the Bong Sau

2011-03-31T06:52:00.002-05:00

When deploying your Wing Chun Bong Sau (Wing Arm Block) you cannot and should not "just throw it out there."

What I mean by that is the Wing Chun Bong Sau is the best and worst move in the Wing Chun system.

Speaking of the Bong Sau being the worst move, based upon the angle of the position, it leaves your entire rib section exposed.

Speaking of the Bong Sau being the best move, it redirects energy allowing the incoming energy of your enemy to be cast aside like a matador does with the rushing bull.

The issue most of us had in our early Wing Chun training is that we thought the Bong Sau looked so cool, so Kung Fu, that we just "threw it out there" to block an incoming attack.

The misunderstanding most Wing Chun student must learn is that we are "forced" into Bong Sau and must not arbitrarily cast this move. Bong Sau is a transitional move and for the most part, must never even be detected by our enemy.

Think of a straight punch coming right to your face. Why take the chance of shortening your response distance with a Bong Sau (think of the bend and angle of your arm) allowing the punch to come within inches of your face?

Instead, your initial response should always be a linear attack response and once contact is made (based upon incoming energy) you then apply your Bong Sau, thus allowing your natural responses to take over and buying yourself proper time and distance to recover from your enemy's punch.

Again the Wing Chun Bong Sau is one of the signature movements in the Wing Chun system and is fantastic to apply...just apply it correctly!

We will be filming a short instructional video on this topic from our Wing Chun Self Defense class in Chicago and posting it on our Izzo Training Systems Youtube channel!

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun Self Defense for Chicago and the NW Suburban Area

Wing Chun Drills

2011-03-30T20:23:00.003-05:00

Doing Wing Chun drills "in the air" along with foot work training, hand movement training or any type of form work is essential to understanding your body and its relationship to fighting.

Dan Innosanto said that Bruce Lee did not teach forms because students would not understand the applicability of the movements unless they were exposed to physical contact from a mock attack.

While I understand this, I believe there are times, post understanding the context of the movement, where you must explore and solidify YOUR understanding of YOUR movement.

You are the only denominator which will not change in a fight. It is as simple as Sun Tsu's comment on knowing an enemy and knowing yourself. Doing Wing Chun drills are not about the movements so much as they are about understanding how your physicality affects and is affected by the movements.

Bruce Lee also advocated punching in the air (or hanging sheet of paper) to build tremendous punching power.

I encourage and ask my students to do their homework daily if they are to improve their Wing Chun Self Defense skills.

Understanding your body is paramount if you are to learn how to defend yourself. Do not discount the real meaning of drills.

Dominick Izzo

Wing Chun Self Defense Chicago
www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun Self Defense Chicago Youtube!

2011-03-28T16:49:00.002-05:00

Be sure to check out our videos on our youtube channel.

www.youtube.com/izzotrainingsystems

Our channel features info and short training clips on the concepts of Wing Chun Self Defense.

As always, your feedback is appreciated.

Dominick Izzo
Wing Chun Self Defense Chicago
www.izzo-training.com

Getting Back in the Fight to Heal

2011-02-09T14:40:00.004-06:00

Getting Back in the Fight to Heal...

Honestly speaking, rape sucks. There just isn't one thing about this act that allows a person to recover in an easy way.

The trauma and lasting effects of being touched, grabbed, thrown against a wall, held down and violated are almost incomprehensible. Every day for a survivor is a challenge.

Some days are easier than others. The continued sense of loss of control and the exposed vulnerability of your safety is overwhelming. Yes, time heals. But in my opinion nothing helps the healing process more than getting back in the fight and winning.

I haven't found anything more empowering or healing than self defense training. Yes, it can be a challenge, but getting back in the fight for your life and gaining control of it can be found in learning how to physically and mentally defend yourself.

Instead of breaking out in a sweat with your heart racing because of the nightmare you experienced, getting your adrenaline pumping by training; striking, kicking and executing an escape out of the hold of a "bad guy" provides an answer to the unending question of, "Will I ever get through this?" Yes, you will. Getting back in the position of when you lost complete control and trust can be a very difficult thing to do. But allowing yourself to experience what scared you the most in a place where you are in control and able to use your strength and skill builds incredible confidence and ability to move forward. Feeling yourself fight back, experiencing your power to confront someone threatening your space replaces a lost resilience that we all deserve.

As survivors, we will never forget. We will never "get over" what we lost because of the violence experienced against us. But we can live with it. We can be stronger now than we were before. The mental and physical benefits of training in self defense will give you that strength. Physically confronting what you are afraid of allows you to mentally gain power to fight forward in all aspects of your life.

The facts are clear; in our world, every minute, a woman is raped. In our Universities, 1 out of every 4 girls is raped or assaulted. Everyday I am informed of another girl's life that has been forever changed or ended because someone was
able to exert his power and will over her. As survivors, instructors, or just responsible people we need to spread the word and provide the incredible benefits that self defense training can have on all of us.

Stay safe out there…

Shannon Mahoney

Wing Chun Self Defense Classes in Chicago

2011-01-25T09:58:00.004-06:00

We've Moved!

Starting Tuesdays and Thursdays in February, Izzo Training Systems Wing Chun Self Defense Class will be in Chicago at 8750 W Bryn Mawr, in the LifeStart Wellness Center. This is a perfect location joining Chicago with the Northwest Suburbs!

LifeStart is located in the Verizon Wireless / Wilson Building off of I90 and Cumberland in Triangle Plaza. www.lifestart.net

Classes run from 7pm to 9pm. Class rates are $60 per month, and your first 4 classes are free!

There is a locker room on site and free parking in the lot.

Public transportation is available from the Cumberland Blue Line which is approximately a 5 minute walk.

Izzo Training Systems Wing Chun Self Defense focuses on self defense practicality and street applications for real life circumstances.

Call to schedule your first 4 free Wing Chun Self Defense classes at our Chicago location!

Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com
Wing Chun Self Defense in Chicago and the Northwest Suburbs

Wing Chun Tan Sau Block

2011-01-13T08:21:00.004-06:00

In Wing Chun Self Defense we do not block. All of our movements serve a purpose of recovering from a "screw up" in a fight. In other words, based on the nature of what Wing Chun is, (simple, direct and attacking self defense)our centerline punch attack should begin and end the attack. However, as most of us who train know, the fight has a strong chance of not ending there...i.e. someone may block, deflect, slip or move out of the way of our attack. Or they may even fire their own attack back.

As I said before, Wing Chun does not have "blocks" as we do not like to think of them as defensive, but for the sake of dialogue, we shall call Tan Sau the Palm Up or Sky Palm Block.

One of the common mistakes taught by Wing Chun instructors is that the Tan Sau is a block that can withstand energy from a hook punch or round house.

This may be true for some people, however height has a part to play in this as far as structure goes.

Tan Sau by nature is found in the Sil Lim Tao form in the first section and is noted to have the same principle as the centerline punch...elbow down and energy forward. Therefore Tan Sau is a wedging block which thrusts forward to intercept incoming and direct energy such as a push, straight punch or any energy that is direct to our mid level.

Tan Sau wastes it potential if we veer it off to the side for incoming side energy as by the nature of being a forward attack, it swiftly becomes our next weapon which is closest to the target.

The first form, Sil Lim Tao, teaches us everything about the Wing Chun fighting system. If your form is good, your technique will be good. Do not try to re-invent the wheel. Stick with simplicity, structure, directness and adhere to the Wing Chun concepts.

For Wing Chun Self Defense classes in the Chicago area visit www.izzo-training.com

Dominick Izzo
Wing Chun Self Defense Instructor
www.izzo-training.com
847.875.0458
Self Defense Classes in the Chicago Northwest Suburban Area

Getting up after being knocked down.

2010-12-30T10:22:00.004-06:00

It was a very hot and humid summer night in 2001.

I remember the air was thick and breathing was easier if you did it slow. The paramedics blamed what happened on a combination of stress, adrenaline, having my gear too tight around my torso, etc... I blamed it on being scared, nervous and new at something that I did not expect.

We responded to a fight in progress in the early morning hours in June of 2001. It was my very first night on patrol as a police officer and I was under the supervision of my 15 year senior field training officer (F.T.O.)

While en route to the call, I remembered what they had trained us to think in the academy, "Every call has a man with a gun...you." This meant that anything can happen and even the little old lady who called because her cat is missing may turn around and want to kill you.

I remember my heart racing as my F.T.O. shut off all the lights on the squad, including headlights, as we rolled up blacked out with 4 other squads. This had been fight involving 10 people in one of the worst parts of the town.

By the time we got there, a state trooper was on scene with one of the victims from the fight. The trooper had stated that the main offender had run off west bound. After gathering basic information, we accessed that the offender had actually lived in the immediate area.

Myself and 3 other officers went to the offender's house and knocked on the door...when I say knock at the door, I mean that I watched as the female officer with us kicked the door frame to get the person inside to open up. Now, I was accustomed to knocking on doors with your knuckles to get the home owner's attention...but apparently at 2am, kicking a door to wake up the household was acceptable when looking for a bad guy.

So, those initial actions had my heart rate jacked. Hearing the dispatcher say, "fight in progress involving 10 subjects", driving blacked out down the street, seeing people scatter upon our arrival and having a fellow officer pounding on a door with her boot.

I stood by in the front lawn of the house and watched as the officer spoke with the homeowner in regard to the subject we were looking for. After about 3 minutes I looked (for some reason) toward my left and down to the ground...and low and behold there he was!

The entire time I was standing there, this "bad guy" was lying in the bushes just a few feet from my left leg!

In an instant I jumped on top of him, cranked his arms behind his back and handcuffed him as he attempted to struggle... It was my first night and my first arrest.

I stood up, picked him up with help from my F.T.O. and started to walk him toward our squad.

As we were escorting him back I remember saying, "Hey...Um Greg...I, I..."

Next thing I remember I was sitting up against a wall and there were firemen all around me. One of them was taking off my bullet proof vest and telling me to breathe.

I had passed out!

As it turned out, I was told I had an adrenaline dump from the call, it was hot out, I was dehydrated and my gear was too tight around my waist. All of that combined equalled me passing out on my first night as a cop.

None of that info mattered to me though. I spent the next few hours in the squad wondering, "did I make a mistake? Can I really do this job? Is this for me?" Mentally I had been knocked down...and out.

From the ride home until the next day's roll call, I was thinking the whole time about other career options. I was afraid to face my new fellow cops, thinking that they would look down on me as someone who couldn't cut it. The smallest thing and I was defeated.

But then I remember the time and effort I put in to get to this point. I remembered the massive risk and career change I made to get to this point. I remembered that there are warriors out there who get hit and then get their asses back up to get into the fight again.

The adversary in this fight was my ego and embarrassment and I had let it get to me.

For me, the best part of getting back up was knowing that when I walked into the squad room the next day, I was going to catch hell from everyone there. Honestly, knowing there was a warped sense of humor amongst cops made me want to get back into the fight. I got knocked down...and it was the "want" that drove me to get back up.

For me, that was a strong moment in my life where I know that I am able to get up no matter what my downed circumstances are. It was a great "me against me" issue and showed me that most adversarial issues are.

So this was my short story of how we are all capable of getting our asses up and back into the fight. I have known many others who have had greater personal struggles than I and I respect them for it as I have seen them get back into the fight.

Don't quit. Embrace getting hit and even knocked down. If you don't you will never have fun stories of personal success to talk about!

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com

Self Defense and Personal Training in Chicago

Intent is Everything

2010-12-16T05:48:00.002-06:00

My room mate in the police academy used to have a saying, "Intent is everything."

That is something that I have held dear to me through out my life. Yes, when you literally apply that concept to everything, intention is the fundamental "be all" behind everything we do, be it our work, our relationships...our lives.

Nothing can be said more true for the idea behind self defense. Your intent, your intensity must be high...it must be ALL.

The person trying to cause you or your loved one harm has a level of intensity or intent that you cannot understand. There is something "wrong" with him/her and they now have the intent on causing you pain, harm or even death...all this meet his/her needs.

Your need must be to survive the attack at all costs. This is where intent is everything. You must be willing to adopt a maximum attitude to do whatever is necessary to over come your attacker.

No matter what technique you learn in your martial arts self defense class, it is useless unless your level of intent behind it has an unmatched and superior level of intent behind it.

Train your body to become physical action...train your spirit to become your intent.

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun Self Defense classes for the Chicago area.

Wing Chun, Ving Tsun, Wing Tsun...

2010-12-13T14:07:00.005-06:00

A student stated in class the other week, "why is it that there are variances in all the YouTube videos I see in Wing Chun forms?"

I keep saying it, Wing Chun is art, not just a martial art, therefore we all have our own means of expressing it.

Think of all the great artists who use different kinds of medium to create works of art. We can consider Wing Chun artists as those who use oil paints, Karate artists as those who use chalk, and Grapplers as those who use clay as their material.

All of them are artists, however they follow their own mediums to create works of art within their own style. Within each individual means of art there are several ways to use their tools. Think of all the artists who have used oil paints...do they all produce the same looking works? No.

Same holds true for Wing Chun. Why then is Wong Shun Leung different from Leung Ting? Why is Emin Boztepe different from William Cheung? Why is it that even the very sons of Ip Man, Ip Ching and Ip Chun are different!?

The reason is because we are all different humans. As long as we follow the conceptual foundations of Wing Chun and the ideas of the movements, we are "correct." Centerline, linear movement, economy of motion, simple, direct and efficient... Wing Chun is all this.

It doesn't matter who adds, removes or changes the section of their wooden dummy forms. It matters that we adhere to the strict guidelines of what Wing Chun is.

Keep this in perspective when training. Polish your tools and learn to use them for you. As Wong Shun Leung had said, "do not become a slave to the art."

There are many amazing Wing Chun instructors out there. I myself know that my Sifu, Syed Ahmad, is by far one of the most intuitive Wing Chun instructors and he is someone who I model my Wing Chun after; but that does not mean I do not read, watch and even exchange conversation and ideas with other instructors out there.

Keep an open mind and embrace the art of expression that Wing Chun is.

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
www.izzo-training.com
Wing Chun Classes in Chicago

Wing Chun is...boring?

2010-12-09T05:47:00.003-06:00

In the past I have had students tell me, "I am having second thoughts about training...its moving so slow, and is, well...kind of boring. When will I get to the good stuff?"

Ah, America...land of instant gratification!

Wing Chun is a martial art, and like any art form, takes time to learn to use the tools required to express human movement and emotion.

Make no mistake about it, but fighting is absolutely a form of human emotion and must be expressed. Bruce Lee, a former Wing Chun student himself, formed countless philosophical theories based on this idea.

That said, we must learn the base of our art form before we use the tools on the canvas.

Conveying this to students is a task well entrusted to teachers with integrity. It is the teacher's responsibility to understand that there are those who want to learn to run before they can even crawl. In martial arts this can be dangerous for several reasons.

The first and most important is that as the teacher, if rushed, you are misrepresenting the art itself. As instructors, we have the responsibility of teaching what we know and we know that a 2 month Wing Chun student is not even remotely ready for chi sau.

Unfortunately, some students see the chi sau phase of Wing Chun as the epitome of where the want / need to be and rush to get there.

So, how do we tell students that learning Sil Lim Tao (The Little Idea form) and the centerline punch are two very important and training tools and must be practiced over and over and over again?

Rushing into exciting looking drills and chi sau without a solid foundation is dangerous as it gives students the worst aspect of hasty training...the false sense of security that they can defend themselves.

I had the very fortunate experience of learning this first hand as a student myself.

It was upon meeting my teacher Syed Ahmad that I was humbled and reminded that Wing Chun is about foundation.

I meet with my Sifu for the first time after talking extensively about training, theory, Wing Chun and our passion... My Sifu and I are within years of the same age, same height, same physical build and same years of Wing Chun training. I had left a former Wing Chun school with a massive amount of confidence in my chi sau and Wing Chun skill as being one of the top students; yet upon training with Sifu Ahmad for the first time, I was unbelievably humbled and not only his ability, but the ability I lacked in the form of basics. This was true of his students; my now Wing Chun brothers and sisters. They had an unbelievable ability due to their foundations.

Sifu Ahmad has spent countless hours refining, exploring, listening, feeling and living his Wing Chun basics. Doesn't matter if it his centerline punch, footwork, Sil Lim Tao, etc. Sifu has done his homework over and over. Under Sifu Ahmad, I have had to return to basics and have noticed that my Wing Chun has not only improved, but I understand Wing Chun better than I had under any previous teacher. And this is all due to patience and basic training.

Wing Chun must be learned and the process respected as being one of diligence and patience. As teachers we must be able to recognize that some students will request speeding up their training, or they will leave. It is the nature of the beast. But as Wing Chun artists, we must not compromise structure and integrity for money or student base. This will only hurt our schools, students and future reputations as well.

Is Wing Chun boring? Depends how you want to look at it. As one Chinese saying puts it, "I do not fear the man who has practiced 10,000 techniques one time; rather the man who has practiced one technique 10,000 times."

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
www.izzo-training.com

Fitness for Fighting? Hell Yes.

2010-12-02T07:02:00.002-06:00

It is a common statement in the Wing Chun community that one should not lift weights if they want their Wing Chun to improve.

The thought among Wing Chun purists is that by increasing muscle mass, you will slow your Wing Chun down and / or lose sensitivity in your chi sau and fighting ability.

My thoughts are these: Wing Chun was created 300 years ago where people were not as large as they were today. The average male height in America today is 5'10" and the average male height in China is 5'6". Although height has remained average over the last 50 years, weight has increased an average of 25 lbs! Our enemies are bigger and badder.

Evolution plays an endearing role in the survival of the fittest game and we can see how this applies in fighting or combat.

In the concept of mass on mass, or the larger fighter; the fighter with the more mass doesn't necessarily always win. Wing Chun shows that skilled mass has a greater chance of winning. Wing Chun uses economy of motion, angles of attack, leverage and body mechanic.

But if Mixed Martial Arts has shown anything, it is that fitness and muscle plays a huge role in a person's ability to endure in combat. Granted, this is specific to the individual. For example, google MMA fighter Roy Nelson. In an episode of Ultimate Fighter, he defeated Kimbo Slice who was by far in better shape.

Being fit has direct effects on a person's ability to supply oxygen to the body, and this has a massive impact on a person's ability to fight. As a former police officer, I can attest that fighting for 10 seconds is a very long time when you cannot breathe. Life is not Mixed Martial Arts...there is no time to prep for our fights. Some times we must run or sprint from or towards danger and then fight...and by then you are already winded!

Wing Chun purists also claim that strength plays no part in fighting...again, I respectfully disagree. Strength may play no part in Chi Sau, however in an actual fight, yes, strength may be the difference between you going home or not. I read an article once in where Wing Chun legend Wong Shun Leung stated that he chi sau'd with Bruce Lee after Lee had been in America for several years. During his American years, Bruce Lee had become a fitness enthusiast which is evident by his amazing physique.

Wong Shun Leung stated that Bruce Lee's chi sau was not as good as it once had been and Wong Shun Leung attributed the declination to Bruce Lee's muscle mass.

Granted, my assumption is that this is useful information in the realm of chi sau in itself. Wong Shun Leung, in my opinion, is the greatest Wing Chun practitioner that has ever lived. In my opinion, he far surpassed Bruce Lee in Wing Chun fighting skill. Bruce Lee, however was a more overall well rounded fighter (I qualify this statement by saying Bruce Lee studied all kinds of fighting; therefore making his approach with fitness invaluable.) Bruce Lee, however again, was never able to "defeat" Wong Shun Leung whenever they trained against each other.

So what does that mean? Who knows! In my opinion, maybe Bruce Lee could run faster, or lift something longer or heaver in the context of fighting...or maybe Bruce Lee had the initial physical edge in that he "looked" like the greater threat, therefore ending a fight by intimidation before it even began. But for the average person training in fighting who can never achieve the Wing Chun development of Wong Shun Leung, I strongly believe that being fitter plays a key role in a person's survival. And lifting weights is a key element in staying fit.

Bottom line, yes, fitness is essential for fighting. Lifting weights does aid in muscle endurance, which is something we need for fighting. A stronger muscle is a muscle that can work longer...and in some combative contests, this may be the difference between life and death.

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com

Train the Fight not the Style.

2010-11-27T12:24:00.003-06:00

The perpetual discussion among martial artists and self defense instructors is, "Which is better? Fighting from the ground or fighting standing up? Like religion and politics, each person's beliefs and passions are defined by their training discipline. Now, add in the context of, what is better to teach a girl/woman in a self defense scenario? Stand up or ground? Now you've got a bunch of alpha males all lathered up and believing that what they have to offer is the only answer.

Here's where I come in. As a female instructor in the self defense world, I offer the cold shower of reason. I have a unique insight into what girls/women are capable of in training and application in an assault situation. I have trained with some of the best instructors (and I do love alpha males...who listen) in Jiu Jitsu, Karate, Muay Tai, Krav Maga, MMA, boxing and Wing Chun. I've covered a lot of training ground and I will continue to do so, but why? Because these different disciplines offer a distinct advantage in either stand up or ground fighting. Again, which is better for a woman to learn and use for her personal self defense?

Each of the instructors that I've trained with fully believes that their method of defense is the best. For example: Jiu Jitsu trains fighting from the ground because that is where virtually all assaults end up. If a guy intends on raping you, he is taking you to the ground. If you are already on the ground in an acquaintance situation, you need to know how to get him off of you. I'm ALL for that, 100%. It is the basis for every program I teach. From the ground you are able to use your strengths against the weaknesses of your attacker. If you know how to get out of the worst position there is, the rest is easy. But, the argument here is, what if by going to the ground; I have put myself in a worse position? Have I given the attacker the advantage by going to the ground? I'l answer that later. For now, here are some good "what if" scenarios to apply.

Example: If you need to defend yourself against an attacker who has grabbed you from behind and thrown you to the ground before you can even blink? You better learn how to use your strengths against his weaknesses from the ground, to keep him or get him off of you and hurt him fast. Then get up and out of there.

Example: If you're with your boyfriend/husband and your shared intimacy turns into aggressiveness that threatens every part of you? Again if you're on the floor or bed with him, you need to know how to use your body to get him off of you and get yourself out of there safely.

Ok, what about learning how to defend yourself effectively standing up? What about committing to your feet, so that the threat of going to the ground never enters your mind? What if instead of having the defensive mind set of, "Back off, don't come into my space," you had the mentality of "There's no chance of you getting into my space because I'm already in yours attacking and defending at the same time?" Are you going to be able to react quick enough to get into that offensive mind set? Wing Chun prides itself on teaching the smaller person to be able to attack anyone's space regardless of size, immediately. It has the opinion that if the fight goes to the ground, something has gone fundamentally wrong. The argument to that is, obviously you're under attack, so yes, something has gone terribly wrong. Will I be able to stand my ground and hold up fighting upper body against upper body as a girl under intense circumstances?

Example: If you're at a bar or party and a guy grabs your body, or will not let you go from that unwanted hug, you need to know how to face him, and attack his space fast and hard to stop the actions before they escalate.

Example: What if someone grabs you by the wrist or by the neck and tries to drag you to another location, you need to react with an awesome stand up game and possible ground game that renders him absolutely useless.

So, what's my answer to the perpetual question? Train both! Mix the benefits of knowing how to face an attacker strongly and effectively both standing up and on the ground. Why? Because assaults are messy. There is no black and white. It is grey and confusing. You will only know what to do when you are faced with the reality of the attack. React and react strong. Through training, you will be prepared and empowered to win in any position.

Stay safe out there, and go find an alpha male and great female instructor to give you both of the perspectives you need and want.

Shannon Mahoney
Instructor, Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com

How long will it take?

2010-11-27T11:52:00.003-06:00

One question I get quite often is, "how long will it take to get the basics of self defense?"

A lot of people think that if they take a 1 hour crash course in self defense, they will have the ability to protect themselves because they learned "the basics."

My thoughts (and again these are merely my perceptive thoughts) is that you cannot learn calculus from a 1 hour crash course for basics; therefor the idea you can protect yourself from a 1 hour self defense class is not practical.

This is not to say from a one hour lecture on self defense you will not understand better the ideas and concepts which govern self defense, however any learned tactic will not be useful unless trained over and over for muscle memory to program it into your arsenal.

That said, you need to know where and when this new memory filed tactic fits in your skill level. This can be done with training with another human and experiencing different sized people, different energy, different ranges, etc...all the things that makes fighting dynamic. Muscle memory takes thousands of repetitious movements to train into your body to become an automatic response.

This is where continued training in styles such as BJJ or Wing Chun excel. I will disclaim that I have no formal training in BJJ however, respect its flow of training and practicality. Having a 20 year background in grappling, I understand the ground game and the flow of training matches the flow of Chi Sau of Wing Chun. The brilliance of Chi Sau training is that it trains you to become reflexive, or automatic, to physical stimulus. This in turn makes you react in place of "thinking" about what tactic you will use in a circumstance. Chi Sau training also rids you of the flinching associated with sparring or fighting, as you become used to touch and physical assertive movement. But again, this is not something you will achieve in a one hour class...this is a process never perfected and takes years to train in. Wing Chun Chi Sau training is, however, fun and therefore somewhat discourages boredom in training, which makes ongoing training very pleasant.

Most self defense programs do not take this into consideration and only teach a technique and not the "time and place" for the technique. Time and place can only be experienced and "self taught" by physical contact with another human being in training...hence the need for repetitive training.

In my view, you need to take classes for no less than 3 months to grasp a better understanding on which route your training should take. Education in anything takes more than one hour.

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com

Think BIG, Not small...

2010-11-21T18:05:00.005-06:00

This morning I had a couple of 13 year old girls in my kitchen asking about different ways to get away from the "bad guy". As only 13 year olds can, they giggled and created crazy "what if" scenarios and how to get out of them. As a Mom I laughed at the and then as a self defense instructor, who loves a good "what if" scenario, I started to answer their questions.

They of course mention the ever popular, "Just go for the eyes!" Or "Rip his ears off!" Or another favorite, "Stomp on his foot!" Now, remember, anything that you can do to stop the bad guy from getting what he wants from you, is the right thing to do. Anything. There are no rules when fighting for your life. But, I had to educate them about the ineffective "eye gouge" and other techniques that require fine motor skills and precision to make them work.

Let's remind ourselves what happens in our bodies when we are in an attack situation. As adrenaline is dumped into our blood stream, our heart rates start to climb, fast. With that increase in heart rate, fine motor skills deteriorate and your ability to think goes out the window. Let's focus on how your fine motor skills deteriorate. Your body is giving you signs that making precise movements with your fingers is not your best bet. So why would you try to place those misfiring fingers into two small eyes on the bad guy? Yes, the eyes are a soft and vulnerable target on paper. But, if a bad guy is really coming at you, he is dynamic. He is moving and using his force and momentum to take you down. Are you really going to be able to hit that moving target with fingers that are not working well? If he's a lot bigger? Smaller? Aiming is too important, and that takes time that you don’t have. Simply, the eye gouge is not my choice. Are you going to be able to use your hands/fingers well enough to grab hold of those ears and rip them off? I'm not so sure. Honestly, are you doing enough there to create enough harm and then space to get away?

So what about the foot stomp? Really? I can't believe I actually still see that as a recommendation for women to do. If a guy has you in a hold from behind, he is going to try to take you down, or to another location. He is going to be moving. How do you stomp on a foot that is moving and taking you with it? Bad guys are amped up plenty to shake off a stomp on the foot, trust me on that one.

When a bad guy comes at you aggressively, you must respond aggressively and effectively. It is always a dynamic environment that you will be fighting in; meaning everything moves and moves fast. Use your strongest assets. Not the ones that are small and physically impaired. Use your strengths, big movements and big body parts.

Lastly, there is something really great about that adrenaline pumping in your body that makes your heart rate fly. With this response, you enter an optimal state of being able to fight where your gross motor skills and reaction times are peaked. So remember, even with your heart pounding and your head swimming, that is your body telling you that you are ready to fight and fight hard.

Stay safe out there. And remember, in self defense, bigger is better.

Shannon Mahoney
Instructor, Izzo Training Systems

shannon@izzo-training.com

Elbow Range

2010-11-11T06:06:00.002-06:00

Without a doubt, the elbow strike is one of the most powerful attacks in the Wing Chun arsenal of weapons. The biggest issue when using the elbow is the distance (or range) in which is it used.

To get the most out of the elbow, it must be engaed with the hips and legs, leaning forward while throwing the elbow will throw you off balance and allow your enemy to take advantage of the opening.

Don't "reach" your target with your elbow. Only use the elbow when you have control of the enemy's arms and a clear opening to use it. This will ensure a safer recovery for you if your strike is not as affecting as projected.

Practice elbow strikes in the air just as you would your Wing Chun Centerline Punch. Time the strike with your hip and engage the adductor muscles to control the shift and stopping power for balance.

Dominick Izzo
www.izzo-training.com

Personal Training...Highway Robbery?

2010-11-06T12:26:00.002-05:00

I never understood how this industry (personal training) can stand to charge so much for a service that is absolutely needed in this country.

Personal Training on average is priced around $80 per hour.

Seeing as getting and staying healthy is a top priority, I can understand the free market supply and demand theory. However, in this economic state, not many of us can afford to hire and keep a trainer for that fee.

My goal is to offer a superior service at a competitive price. I offer the north suburban Chicago area personal training rates starting at $30 per session.

I work closely with nutritionists, dietitians, counselors and numerous trainers in the area. When you hire me, you hire a team of people to help you hit your goals.

Contact me at www.izzo-training.com to see how I can help you reach your fitness goals.

Personal Training is a must if you are seeking to get healthy. And getting healthy shouldn't be expensive.

Dominick Izzo
Self Defense / Personal Training
www.izzo-training.com
847-875-0458

Go for the throat

2010-09-30T07:52:00.002-05:00

Wing Chun Self Defense's primary concern is self defense...not sport fighting. Chi Sau, although in itself fun and invigorating, has a main function of preparing a person for lethal combat should the person need it.

After you embrace the fact that you must be able to cause lethal damage to a person, you must know WHERE to cause the damage.

The 3 main ways to stop a fight are through breath, consciousness or life. The main path to destruct those is the throat.

Grabbing, squeezing and / or striking the throat is a necessary evil when it comes to defending yourself and it is a primary target. The throat has no natural defense, no muscle or bone to stop an attack.

The human body cannot function if it does not get oxygen and the throat is the pathway to the brain.

Focus on the throat when you attack.

Dominick Izzo
Self Defense Advocate / Self Defense Instructor

www.iamselfdefense.org

Wing Chun Self Defense Classes in Chicago
www.izzo-training.com

Getting Back on the Horse?

2010-09-28T07:17:00.002-05:00

Ugh...

I am now 35 years old and can say that yes, I think I feel the lack of drive to workout.

I am faced with that proverbial "getting back on the horse" and getting myself back in shape. Well, not "back in shape" but back to the athlete I need to be. Note I said the athlete I need to be and not the athlete I used to be. I think it is more important to surpass the athlete I was, especially at this age.

Yes, I have to say that finding the motivation is increasingly difficult. Have I settled? Do I enjoy looking at the girth around my mid-section? Is that 30 minutes extra of sleep worth just going through the motions of an average life? No.

I used to remind myself, "somewhere out there is a kid training 5 times harder than you...he is just like who you USED to be. One day you will run into him and he is going to drop you." That used to motivate me... Today, while driving, a new thought popped into my head... "somewhere out there is a man training 5 times harder than you...he is going to drop you...and he is 20 years your senior."

Yes, I have seen men in their 50's and 60's who have more GRRRRRR than I do... They still have the will to move forward.

That is one of the core principles of Wing Chun which drew me to it...we always go forward. I apply that to my training too. In Wing Chun, we do not back up, we fight forward.

I need to remember that, because someone else probably is too.

Dominick Izzo
Self Defense Advocate / Self Defense Instructor
I Am Self Defense
www.iamselfdefense.org

I Am Self Defense

2010-09-21T11:21:00.001-05:00

I Am Self Defense is a National nonprofit 501-c(3) created for the purpose of educating and promoting awareness of the importance of self defense education.
Mission:
The mission of the I Am Self Defense program is to educate and empower women
through physical and emotional self defense training; helping women take control of
their lives and live in strength of mind. I Am Self Defense promotes all forms of self defense training programs.

The I Am Self Defense program differs in that it is essential in that every woman must have physical
knowledge and the emotional conviction that she can protect herself in the face of any
physical or mental threats.

The I Am Self Defense program is effective due to it being direct, practical and natural;
using the human body’s form, structure and emotional power.

The I Am Self Defense program is evolutionary in that it mirrors human nature by being
alive in principal, uncompromising in application and embracing of adaptation.

Adopt the maxim, “I Am Self Defense.”

For more information on I Am Self Defense events or to become a sponsor for I Am Self Defense, visit us at www.iamselfdefense.org

The "Self" in Self Defense

2010-09-08T11:14:00.004-05:00

Wing Chun allows the practitioner to train the most phenomenal concept in Self Defense...Self.

In fact, unless the Wing Chun student understands him/herself, their Wing Chun is not Wing Chun, it is mere mimicking of movements.

Why is it that two people of the same height, weight, age, gender, etc can have the same 108 Sil Lim Tao movements, the exact same training, the exact same length of time in training, same Sifu same everything, yet one person will dominate the other? That is because one student understands themselves.

What do I mean by that? The internal side of Martial Art does mean energy, focus, zen, etc...but what about balance? What about structure? What about knowing how far your arm can reach out from your body before you start to get in danger of being ripped out of your stance by a Lap Sau?

Does your punch generate from your core? Do your legs aid in balance as well as power for your strikes? Does your Yiu Ma (waist energy) move dynamically? Meaning not only side to side, but down, forward, angling...

Wing Chun should be experienced...learned by self expression. We have heard this about Martial Arts for centuries. This is why the 1% of Martial Arts student is successful in their journey...because they understand that Wing Chun is a life long process of improvement.

Sil Lim Tao has been the exact same movements for me my entire Wing Chun training career. But over time and personal exploration, I have learned dynamic things about each movement of the form.

This is why when people comment on others youtube Wing Chun videos, "Oh that is wrong or this is not how Ip Man did it..." I brush that off. Its not the Wing Chun Style so much as it is the fighter. Now, that said, I am absolutely a Wing Chun traditionalist. I am of the Ip Man lineage... But Ip Man had many students. Some of whom were phenomenal Wing Chun fighters. Wong Shun Leung made changes to his Wing Chun forms with Ip Man's permission. He knew what worked in a fight and what did not. His student Gary Lam did the same. I would fight neither one of those men. Does that mean since they did not follow the Ip Man 8mm videos to the T that they are wrong? Not in my view. Look at Leung Ting. He trained under Ip Man...yet his Wing Chun (Tsun) is different. Who has the perfect system? No one.

Why is it that I was one of the top students in my second Sifu's school? My second Sifu had national notoriety. But when I met my current Sifu (who had just as much time training Wing Chun as I did and who is the same height, age and build) I could not touch him? Understanding, period. He understood himself and how Wing Chun "lived" in him better that I did. Under my second Sifu, I did Wing Chun "his" way, and and it turned out, for me, his way was wrong.

Yes, you MUST adhere to Wing Chun concepts, principles and movement for it to be Wing Chun. A hook punch is not Wing Chun because it violates the principles of Wing Chun...but if the practitioner can find a time, place and effectiveness for a movement such as this, then it was Wing Chun...the goal is to end the fight. Wing Chun does this over all!

But back to my SELF in self defense statement... Take the time to learn about you. Do the form over and over. FEEL yourself and your movements. Feel Wing Chun live in you. Yes, this is very internal and very emotionally experiential...but this is the essence of Martial Art... Self Improvement.

Dominick Izzo
Self Defense Advocate / Self Defense Instructor
www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun Chicago Self Defense
Martial Arts Training Chicago

Wing Chun Self Defense Footwork

2010-09-07T09:46:00.004-05:00

If there is something that I agree with in the fighting word that holds true linking Wing Chun and MMA is that 99.9% of all fights end up on the ground.

My first intro to Wing Chun was as an inquisitive wrestler. I searched for years for a martial art that suited me, and I was giving up hope. From my personal view, I was more comfortable in grappling distance and other martial arts could not deal with the close range combat. This was proven true with the initial years of MMA and the Gracie family.

I tried Boxing and Shotokan Karate and although the two are phenomenal forms of combat, they were not for me.

I attended a Law Enforcement seminar (I was a police officer from 2001 through 2008) and met with my first Wing Chun Kung Fu instructor Danny Halligan.

After the seminar I spoke with Halligan and expressed to him my interest in Martial Arts and my disatisfaction in the realm of the realistic nature most arts lacked. I told Danny Halligan that my main concern was the take-down factor and I wondered if Wing Chun was able to "deal" with grapplers.

Halligan invited me (very respectfully) to take him down...I was not able. Every single time I shot or attempted to close the gap between Halligan and I, he beat me to it...He closed the gap first... He "attacked" me at the moment I advanced on him. I was baffled at how Wing Chun did not retreat or gain space in order to judge how to deal with a threat, rather Wing Chun crowded me as I advanced.

What was also noticeable was the fact that as I was trying to position myself to grab Halligan on his legs, hips or wrists, he was continually hitting me on the head, neck, and sternum. He litteraly was attacking me while I was trying to control him.

The issue of footwork and Wing Chun is that it lies completely on balance. In Wing Chun the goal of our strike is to hit as powerfully as we can, take the enemy's balance and keep your balance. Balance is paramount!

This starts with the concept that balance is natural. Think of when we walk. We walk with our head over our hips, and over our feet. If we lean forward, taking our head off of the line of joints, we become off balance. So we adopt this in the "rear leg" concept of Wing Chun balance.

Balance is also a personal issue. Since Sifus cannot be experience the internal side of their students I strongly suggest working on the self discovery of balance over and over and over. It took me YEARS to find my balance and two Sifus with conflicting retrospect.

My first Sifu adopted the traditional Wing Chun 90% of the weight on the back leg stance. Now, although I fully endorse this training as to break the "front leg heavy" American sport mindset, I cannot endorse this for combat.

When your weight is on the back leg, your entire foot is flat on the ground. You can take a straight line and drive it through the top of your head, through your hip and out your foot. Balance this way DOES allow you to root energy into the ground, however for unskilled fighters, it will prove un-effective for practical fighting. In other words, yes, if a MMA guy shot in on you, you are already headed on the ground.

After years of personal research and reading, I must say that I support Wong Shun Leung's concept that balance is 50/50...with a focus on the rear leg.

When kicking or moving forward, it only takes 51/49 or 1% of weight distribution change in order to do so.

Instead of our entire foot being on the ground, we focus on our instep and heel. Keep in mind that shifting and staying rooted in the ground is/are a dynamic movement. By that I mean we shift side to side, but depending upon the circumstance, we also angle down or up...depending how we attack or maintain balance. I.E. the Lap Sau. When you Lap Sau are you simply pulling the arm across, or are you pulling it across and down? Just questions to explore.

Shifting also makes use of the adductors inside the legs. We use these for sharp, powerful movements as well as to "put the brakes on" when shifting in shorter movements. Shifting is dynamic...and thus should be thoroughly explored.

Think of a patio table we use in the summer. The table is round with the umbrella driven right through the center...we turn the table and the umbrella is still center. This is reflective of our centerline position as far as a core concept rather than the facing concept.

The same holds true with the 50 /50 stance. Our head and centerline is always directly over both feet.

Try shifting your Wing Chun stance in both manors. You will notice that when you shift in the 90 / 10 stance, your head and centerline move over the respected foot. In the 50 / 50 stance, your centerline does not change.

Again, this is a personal preference and what has worked for me. I have very flat feet and walk on my instep.

It was my Wing Chun Kung Fu brother Dan who helped me find balance over the years. His ecouragement was to constantly "discover" my Wing Chun... and I feel I have.

Do 99.9% of all fights end up on the ground? Sure, if you don't know how to fight on your feet.

Dominick Izzo
Self Defense Advocate / Self Defense Instructor

www.izzo-training.com

Chicago Area Wing Chun Self Defense

Conceptualizing

2010-09-05T08:43:00.000-05:00

The beauty/bane of Wing Chun Kung Fu is that is it is very different from other martial arts. Unlike other arts, Wing Chun heavily relies on "concepts" versus "techniques" which advocated the martial artist to think or feel their progression through training rather than just mimicking movements.

As time progresses a "tan sau / punch" (for example) will always be a technique which will in your fighting arsenal... However it is how you apply it which will be different from each other and obviously myself.

Chi Sau is where we learn the basics on HOW to apply the techniques. But what is essential is that we concentrate less on "doing" the technique and more on "feeling" when the technique will naturally appear...confusing, I know. Hence the importance of Chi Sau making us automatic and less thinkers when it comes to fighting. This, in my opinion is the superiority training that Wing Chun provides.

This is why we practice the Sil Lim Tao form and Centerline punch over and over and over.

As you practice the centerline punch, you must think to yourself, "am I on center?" This has got to be the main focus. This is why we start at our sternum...the fist is merely the tip of the sword.

Think of a sword...we don't grasp the tip and use it...we cant. We hold the handle and thrust the handle forward to use the tip as the killing point.

View your punch as this. The body is the hand which holds the handle of the sword. The elbow is the handle of the sword and that is what is used to propel the fist forward. And like a sword too, due to its weight, if you over extend yourself to thrust, you will be off balance... do not over extend your punch.

And we extend from out sternum straight and not curved. Shortest distance between two points is a straight line. We don't club our enemy with the sword, we thrust into them.

So CENTERLINE is one of the most important concepts we must adhere to...and just to confuse you even more, remember that centerline is not mutually exclusive with your facing forward. This will be covered in a later blog.

Other concepts such as position, reflex, turning on and off your intent, forwarding, facing and other concepts are expected to develop over time and training.

Wing Chun is a wonderfully frustrating martial art which teaches you about YOU. You must remember that YOU are the focal point of training. That is very important when bridging the gap between "air drills" and practical application. If you have perfect structural position when doing a movement in the air, and then over extend or deviate off center when making contact with a partner, your Wing Chun stops becoming YOUR Wing Chun and starts becoming you chasing an enemy out of panic...but that's ok. That's why we train over and over.

Again, this is why repetition is so important and why we must "conceptualize" while training. Centerline is the base. Punch, punch, punch. Believe it or not, the entire system can be discovered through this movement.

Dominick Izzo

www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun Self Defense Chicago Classes

Wing Chun at The Bootcamp Express

2010-09-02T08:56:00.004-05:00

Wing Chun Self Defense will be coming to The Bootcamp Express in Chicago starting in October!

Mondays and Wednesday nights at 7:45pm. 1515 W Berwyn in Andersonville, cross strees of either Ashland or Clark. If you take CTA it is the Berwyn Red Line Stop.

773-293-7103

To sign up visit www.thebootcampexpress.com

Martial Arts Training Chicago

Minimal Movement for Maximum Effect

2010-08-25T05:32:00.002-05:00

One of the beautiful aspects of Wing Chun Kung Fu is that it functions on concepts rather than on techniques alone.

One of the concepts for self defense in the Wing Chun systems is moving as little as possible to get the job done.

In a short example we look at the nature of the Tan Sau. Tan Sau (palm up block) is a wedging block which is thrust forward from the centerline to intercept a mid-level straight attack. The effective-ness of Tan Sau lies in it being straight forward from the center, the position of the elbow and the fact that it is "moved" by the shift. We do not chase the incoming energy away from the body, it is wedged off and assisted by the shift.

In a visual picture driving your car and simply changing lanes in traffic...do you slightly turn the wheel to change or do you make three rotations of it in order to get your car into the other lane?

Same idea...we do as little as needed to get the job done.

Dominick Izzo
Self Defense Advocate/ Self Defense Instructor

Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun Self Defense Chicago classes are held every Thursday night.

The Truth of Self Defense

2010-08-24T03:20:00.003-05:00

During my time as a police officer I had been fortunate enough to view first hand the truth and reality of violence as well as the direct effect it has on peoples perspectives of their own lives.

Violence is a living, breathing entity...violence doesn't "start" or one day just appear...violence is born and is nurtured. Some individuals have "issues" and impulses to do unspeakable acts which make the rest of us question humanity...these people just do what they feel and cannot be stopped from feeling compelled to act in such a horrible way.

As normal functioning members of society, we can't fathom taking our hand, balling it into a fist and then forcing it with speed and rage into the face of our significant other...but those who give birth to violence can and do.

I have little to no faith in the rehabilitation process of courts, the law or "aftermath" programs which focus on the violence after it has been exposed.

I say in my lectures that being a victim is a choice, and it usually raises a good buzz of irritation from the audience. But I hold true to this statement.

Why should we allow or even count on government or organizations to solve our issues? Granted, I am grateful for their help, but accountability starts within.

Its comparable to "participation awards" in juvenile sports programs in the last decade. I completely understand why some children and young adults have the hardest time with rejection or setting high standards for themselves...they were never taught how to lose or how to strive to achieve. They were taught we are all equal ls...but are we? If we are, then why would some man in Chicago beat two women with a baseball bat until they were unconscious, but that kind of thought has never even entered most people's heads?

Think of a lightning storm...God forbid you get struck by lightning, I am happy that hospitals and medical professionals are there to help and begin the process of recovery. But didn't you see the warning signs and do your best to avoid the circumstance? Ahhhh, there is the rub! Education!

Self Defense has a severe lack of support in the advocacy and educational aspect. We all think of self defense as a class or a technique based event where we go to learn something that will keep us safe when physical contact is made.

I am aware that every single circumstance is unique and cannot be solved with simple blog written solutions. But like all education, self defense education sparks an internal thought process which forces individuals to think on their own for their own best interest. A true self defense instructor does not teach technique...they teach how to search for self expression.

I am aware that the woman who has no job and is beaten daily has little to no route of escape from her horror from the hands of her live in nightmare...however self defense education can lead to a series of self initiated thoughts to attempt to change the course of the outcome. THAT in itself IS self defense...and THAT is not choosing to become a victim.

I teach self defense in the Chicago area and do so with the full expectation not that someone will remember the "move" I taught them, however that they will open their eyes to discover that they posses the ability to think as individuals how self defense training applies to their own lives.

One person told me years ago that the self defense classes she took with me gave her confidence to get out of her old job and find a new one. How did that have anything to do with protecting herself? In her view it was her way of not becoming victim to emotional pain of being stuck in a static situation.

One person told me that the self defense class she took with me gave her confidence to try to lose weight. The connection? She came to the class to learn to protect herself because she was obese and fearful of being a victim. At the class she learned that she was capable of performing effecting movements which she did not think possible...that in turn empowered her to find a new spark for her life.

I have had many examples of how self defense has been the catalyst for people to make fantastic improvements in their lives, helping them to refuse to become victims of personal pain. I like to think this ripple effect has been a direct cause of their avoidance with violence.

We cannot stop the lightning. We cannot stop the violence. But we were told not to run under trees and to stay away from metal structures...we were educated. Maybe with educating we can find shelter...and with this shelter we can find an amazing self worth. Self defense, self worth... what a perfect union.

Dominick Izzo
Self Defense Advocate / Self Defense Instructor

Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com

Self Defense in Chicago

I Am Self Defense

2010-08-10T03:30:00.002-05:00

The Depaul MBAA is excited to welcome the instructors of "I Am Self Defense, " the nation's premier Self Defense program for educating and empowering women as they host a FREE self defense seminar for men and women.

" I Am Self Defense" will give you the confidence, courage and strength of mind to protect yourself against violence and to master the outcome of any potential threat. Instructors and co-owners of Chicago In-home self defense, Syed Ahmad, Dominick Izzo and Ryan Parmelee bring their combined experience, passion and intensity to a three hour workshop which will leave you charged, educated and empowered. All are welcome.

To register for this free seminar, go to:

https://s08.123signup.com/servlet/SignUp?PG=1522864182300&P=15228641911421238000

The Bootcamp Express

2010-07-20T15:17:00.002-05:00

I recently became a member of The Bootcamp Express fitness team (1515 W Berwyn, Chicago Il, in the Andersonville township) and wanted to write a few comments about the concept and program.

www.thebootcampexpress.com is the site for this new training facility run by two of the Chicago industry's top fitness professionals, Annette Kaptur and Shannon Helfrich.

During my first meeting with Kaptur and Helfrich, I was introduced to their concepts of fitness which I have adopted in my own personal training these last two weeks.

Kaptur and Helfrich designed a training concept catering to 3 levels of fitness advocates... The Beginner, which they call "Ready", the Intermediate, called "Set" and the Elite, referred to as "Go".

The program simultaneously runs all 3 levels of fitness participants through the same workout, but at their own pace and according fitness levels. This allows beginner participants to have the same intense workout as elite athletes and feel a part of the team, rather than they are the "newbies" of the class.

Training runs an hour and is broken into intense 15 minute intervals split between cardiovascular and strength training (for more information on the breakdown visit www.thebootcampexpress.com).

Having a strong background in fitness, I was not skeptical as toward Kaptur and Helfrich's concept, however was leery as to if this particular concept would be applicable to MY fitness needs.

After adhering to their specific training regiment and training blocks, I will state that their concept is the most effective for immediate results.

Within two weeks I have lost 5 lbs and have felt my energy levels increase dramatically. My mental focus has also benefited due to the interval training. I no longer feel that workout time is dragging due to a break up of the hour. This concept I feel has attributed to my success the most, as it has allowed me to not only focus, but enjoy the workout itself.

Granted, this is only the initial two weeks of training, but it is easy to project the lasting effects of the their workouts on my fitness level and body composition. This form of training can be utilized primarily as a subject's means of fitness or incorporated into any athletic fitness program.

As for my personal training, it is a must for any martial arts practitioner, wrestler or MMA fighter to consider this training to aid in their endurance training, explosive power and weight management.

For more information call The Bootcamp Express 773-293-7103

I will be updating my progress with pictures in the near future.

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com

Karate vs. Wing Chun Kung Fu

2010-06-24T21:58:00.001-05:00

Great Video!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2Y9H8VYRIA&feature=related

5%

2010-06-16T09:43:00.002-05:00

There is a certain necessary evil needed when it comes to efficiently and effectively defending yourself. This evil comes in the mindset of "being" evil. What I mean by that is being capable of doing the most ruthless and brutal thing to another living human being...killing them.

Understand, I am not advocating harming another human being, but in the very nature of self defense you must have the ability to unleash fury and rage on anyone who threatens your life or the life of your loved ones.

Most of us have a "switch" or limit when it comes to harming another human being. This is what I call my 5%.

I like to think that I am in control of my self at all times...and I am. But there is 5% of myself that I believe is primal, basic and still operates under the rule of survival of the fittest.

This uncontrolled 5% is what will be the difference whether or not I survived if attacked by another human. This 5% will take over and act without thought or reason should someone threaten my life or the life of someone I care about.

I embrace this 5% and understand that without it, should someone wield a knife at me, I may react instead of acting. I welcome the 5% and accept that over evolution we have decreased our primal side, therefore placing whatever remains in a sacred place in our minds. Threaten a child in front of his mother...you will see 5% in action.

5% is what will save me... 5% is what I think of when I train in self defense... 5% is what I must become if I am to survive.

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
Wing Chun Kung Fu Chicago
Women's Self Defense Chicago
www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun in Chicago

2010-06-14T10:48:00.005-05:00

My resume in Self Defense Training:

My history in Wing Chun Kung Fu began a decade ago after finding it in a Law Enforcement Defensive Tactics Seminar.

Prior to that I had 20 years of combat training including 15 years as collegiate style wrestler, Shotokan Karate, Law Enforcement Defensive Tactics and as an amateur boxer, competing in Police Officer charity events.

I met my first Sifu Danny Halligan while attending a defensive tactics seminar. Danny Halligan was under Ron Heimberger and then later Eric Li. Both of whom were under the Ip Man Wing Chun Lineage under his son, Grandmaster Ip Ching.

I later trained under Phil Nearing of Wing Chun Chicago Kung Fu who had been a student of Steve Lee Swift and later Sam Kwok. Sam Kwok has been training under both Grandmaster Ip Chun and Grandmaster Ip Ching for several decades, both who are sons of Grandmaster Ip Man.

My current Sifu is Syed Ahmad of Chicago In Home Self Defense. Syed's understanding of Wing Chun is second only to his passion for it. A student under the Ip Man lineage as well, Syed's teaching of Wing Chun is something that places him in a class of his own, making him one of the top Wing Chun Chicago area instructors.

I strictly adhere to a structured syllabus which has been detailed by Syed for class instruction and designed to allow the student to know exactly where their Wing Chun training is headed. Having a structured course syllabus allows the student to have goals set and measure their personal success. Unlike my experience with other teacher's who's syllabus' has been in their heads, I strongly encourage my students to ask me where they are going on their journey and to always respectfully question my knowledge on how I am helping them to achieve their goals in Wing Chun.

I strongly urge anyone seeking Wing Chun Chicago area training to research all the area schools. The best teachers will have understanding trumping their ability.

For more information on Wing Chun in Chicago visit www.izzo-training.com

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
www.izzo-training.com
Wing Chun Self Defense Classes in Chicago Area

Wing Chun Kung Fu vs Karate

2010-06-13T23:06:00.004-05:00

One question that I was asked was what is the difference between the martial arts of Wing Chun Kung Fu and Karate.

It has to be first mentioned that there is no such thing as a "bad" martial art or an inferior martial art...its the martial artist who makes the difference.

Karate is a very "hard" style. Not hard as in difficult, but as in force. Getting hit by a Karate kick or punch would result in certain destruction. Bruce Lee (Wing Chun's most famous student) was correct when he spoke about being like water.

Karate is like being hit with a baseball bat...when it hits you, it is forceful and devastating.

Wing Chun Kung Fu seeks to be like water. Flowing and adapting to its surroundings. Wing Chun Kung Fu seeks the path of least resistance and when it finds its opening, it crashes like water!

Unlike Karate, Wing Chun Kung Fu is a soft and hard art.

Feeling the difference in the structure of the Karate Straight Punch and the Wing Chun Centerline Punch would observe to be useful for anyone seeking to understand the physical applications between the two.

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
Wing Chun Self Defense

Class has moved!

2010-06-13T22:56:00.002-05:00

Just a quick notification that we have moved our Chicago Wing Chun Self Defense class to 8750 W Bryn Mawr in Chicago. We are in the Wilson / Verizon Wireless Building in Triangle plaza.

Classes are taught under the premise of Wing Chun Kung Fu. Wing Chun is a close quarter combat systems and a "stand up" martial art. Unlike kickboxing or Tae Kwon Do, Wing Chun Self Defense uses mostly hand movements where as Kickboxing and other martial arts use a high volume of kicking.

Classes are "pay as you go" and meet every Thursday night at 6pm. Free parking is available and the Cumberland Blue Line stop is within a five minute walk.

Please contact me with any questions.

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
847-875-0458

Shocking and Offensive

2010-06-08T12:40:00.004-05:00

In the nature of advertising, I submit that my methods are to evoke true emotion.

In the past I have been accused of attempting to scare women into buying my product.

In my defense I say this...THAT STATEMENT IS 100% accurate.

The very nature of self defense is violence, chaos, horror and terror. Understanding that this nature is what you are protecting yourself from is why you train in self defense.

My job as a self defense instructor is to be offensive...it is to shock...it is to terrify! Without these basic human emotions present a person would remain ignorant and heighten his or her chances of being a victim.

Hate my methods of arousing awareness. Hate it all you like... Hate it more the next time you watch the news when you see about some man killing his family, some man beating women with a baseball bat, some man killing a pregnant woman with his bare hands, some man shooting his wife, murduring his children and saying he was sorry he "ran out of bullets."

My job is to teach self defense...not how to paint rainbows.

I teach Women's Self Defense and Wing Chun Self Defense in Chicago.

Dominick Izzo

Wing Chun Kung Fu Bong Sau

2010-06-08T12:18:00.001-05:00

The Wing Chun Kung Fu Bong Sau…what a fantastic technique.

Talk about “aliveness” of Wing Chun Kung Fu! The Bong Sau (or Wing Arm Block) is both the “best” and “worst” move in the Wing Chun syllabus.

Keep in mind that I use the term “block” loosely as in Wing Chun, we have no blocks as all of our movements are either attacking in nature or dissipating energy.

The Bong Sau can be seen as the famous pose for most Wing Chun practitioners, however the Bong Sau is anything but a pose.

One of the main errors in applying the Wing Chun Bong Sau is that students are stationary in its application. The Bong Sau is an apparition and should be ghost like when using it on your enemy.

In my opinion, and again, MY OPINION, Bong Sau does have more than one possible application based on its arm positioning.

The Wing Chun Bong Sau should be, first and foremost, a dissipation of energy. In application, we do not throw the Bong Sau out as a defensive maneuver. The Bong Sau is a transition between applications. In other words, if you throw your Wing Chun Centerline Punch at your enemy and he intercepts the punch (with possibly a punch of his own) then the Bong Sau appears and re-directs his punch’s force.
So, you don’t elbow up and throw out the Bong Sau…it has to stem from some sort of contact. HOWEVER, that said, the POSITION of the Bong Sau does make a phenomenal jamming arm.

Wing Chun Kung Fu does not clash force upon force, however sneaking in a tactic if advantageous may not be a bad idea if it works. In my personal experience doing Chi Sau with taller people, being able to uproot an opponent’s structure and balance was relatively easy for me. From Kiu Sau (or wrist to wrist) when someone would re-engage me with an aggressive Lap Sau/Punch, I would blast in and clash their punch with my Bong Sau. Incorrect? Possibly, yet it was effective for ME. I am not suggesting this is suitable for everyone in every scenario. Sometimes I would just step in and blast a centerline punch, thus intercepting his punch, then of course transition into Bong Sau.

Bottom line, the Wing Chun Bong Sau, appears out of “nowhere” and returns to said “nowhere” after it is used.

As my Sifu, Syed Ahmad, says, “what appears in form disappears in application.”

We teach Ip Man Wing Chun here in Chicago.

www.izzo-training.com

The Centerline Punch

2010-06-04T15:53:00.002-05:00

The shortest distance between two points is a straight line... hence one of the reasons we embrace the Centerline Punch in Wing Chun Kung Fu.

Wing Chun uses linear movements due to the very nature that a straight punch to the face of an enemy will get there faster than that of a hook punch.

The effort of a hook punch does have a very "satisfying" feeling of delivery as one can definitely feel the power behind it... but when compared to the Wing Chun Centerline Punch, it's distance, timing and placement is outmatched by the speed and accuracy of the Wing Chun Centerline Punch.

The Wing Chun Centerline Punch uses elbow placement, elbow "power" and skeletal structure to reinforce its delivery in place of brute strength.

Picture holding a baseball bat...your enemy has one as well. As he winds up his to swing it at you, you thrust yours forward and jam it in his face. This is just one of the concepts behind the Wing Chun Centerline Punch.

Izzo Training Systems of Chicago teaches Wing Chun Self Defense.

For more information, visit www.izzo-training.com

Wing Chun Kung Fu and Women's Self Defense

2010-05-27T12:47:00.002-05:00

Wing Chun Kung Fu is growing in popularity thanks to Robert Downey Jr's advocating of it and display in his movies...Check out the fight scenes in Sherlock Holmes and some in Iron Man 2.

Wing Chun was developed by a woman and is the basis art we use when teaching our Women's Self Defense Classes here in Chicago.

Students are trained in close proximal situations mocking an attack...this is done considering that a fight does take place in close positions.

Wing Chun teaches individuals to fight on their feet, something that is crucial in combat considering that most fights end up on the ground.

Our Self Defense Classes and Wing Chun classes are in Chicago and the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.

For more information contact:

www.izzo-training.com
or
847-875-0458

Women Beaten with Baseball Bat in Chicago

2010-05-04T16:14:00.002-05:00

Here is one article about the attack in Bucktown (Chicago neighborhood) from last week. Two women were walking home on a Chicago street at 3:30am on a Friday morning when they were attacked by a man with a baseball bat.

http://cbs2chicago.com/local/bucktown.attack.suspects.2.1660871.html

We are giving a free women's self defense class on May 15th in response to this cowardly event. Everyone is welcome.

www.iamselfdefense.com

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
Women's Self Defense

News!

2010-03-03T10:27:00.003-06:00

I am beyond excited and pleased to announce that Izzo Training Systems has begun to work with Chicago In Home Self Defense in pursuing the finest Women's Self Defense programs available for our communities.

Syed Ahmad and Ryan Parmelee are two phenomenal instructors who share my ideals and passion in spreading awareness of the issue and need for self defense. I am proud to be associated with them.

You can visit their website at www.defenseinhome.com

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
Women's Self Defense for Chicago and the North West Suburban Area

Aftermath

2010-02-24T21:46:00.002-06:00

With all due respect to those who have been victimized or involved with such abhorrent circumstances as rape, domestic violence or mental abuse...when will we as a society embrace the concept of PREVENTION? I offer my full support to those groups who cousel, offer support for recovery, or those who go after court sys...tems for stronger "punishment." But this is all dealing with AFTERMATH.

It is time to understand the importance of stopping these events prior to needing a counselor, before they need a recovery group, and way before they need the police, courts, ambulance or coroner.

This is an ugly topic to talk about and it is one that will enrage some...but that is the point. Unless emotion sparks motion, ignighting a movement towards women "owning" their circumstances, we will only continue to have movements generated from tragedies which touched our emotions way too late.

Support those who help after...do this always. But prompt prevention now! This is the importance of Women's Self Defense.

The baisc act of doing something physical starts a chain reaction for "pride." Someone who achieves something, i.e. an athlete or someone who loses weight, gains confidence...its primal and survival of the fitest.

"Motion causes emotion..." and even the basic concepts of learning a punch, kick or whatever, has the phemomenal affect on someone to adopt a confident mindset...THAT ALONE may be enough for someone to deal with a circumstance...confidence or lack of can be all the difference when an attacker picks a victim.

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
Women's Self Defense for Chicago Illinois

Women's Self Defense Seminar in May!

2010-02-23T18:16:00.003-06:00

On May 15th, two of the most prominent and accomplished names in Women's Self Defense are teaming up to rock the Chicago area with the most intense self defense presentation ever!

Chicago In Home Self Defense and Izzo Training Systems bring their combined experience, passion and intensity to LifeStart on Wacker Dr for a 3 hour workshop which will leave you charged, educated and empowered!

Far beyond the standard women's self defense seminar on "wrist grabs" or "choke escapes" or basic punches and kicks...this seminar will empower you to become the commanding force behind ANY threat of violence!

Syed Ahmad, Ryan Parmelee and Dominick Izzo will teach you the physical and emotional skills crucial to surviving any threatening circumstance.

Annihilate your fears of the "unknown" attack! Take control and seize the ability to dominate any threat of violence! You will come away from this event knowing that you WILL be able to control the outcome of any threat to your safety or the safety of your loved ones!

Chicago has never seen an event like this! Be a part of this phenomenal experience!

Chicago In Home Self Defense and Izzo Training Systems are bringing you an explosive and engaging Women's Self Defense Seminar that you must not miss!

The event runs from 12pm to 3pm on Saturday May 15th. Cost of the event is $129 per person with multiple person disounts available.

For more information about the event or the trainers please visit:

http://www.defenseinhome.com/
customercare@defenseinhome.com
847-691-9365

http://www.izzo-training.com/
Dominick@izzo-training.com
847-875-0458

LifeStart on Wacker Dr is in the United Building and is 1/2 block from the Clark and Lake Blue Line Stop. Public parking is available directly across from the United Building.

Chicago In Home Self Defense and Izzo Training Systems share the common mission in providing superior education in self defense to continue to keep our communities safe and empowered.

M.I.N.A. Children's Self Defense in Chicago!

2010-01-07T23:34:00.002-06:00

The need for Self Defense for Children lies far beyond the idea of discipline, punching, kicking or a reward system such as a black belt. Teaching a child to protect themselves in a practical setting involves more than teaching them to fight…it involves teaching them to use their mind and use their fear.

Either in a domestic violence circumstance or an unknown stranger circumstance, a child must be prepared to use his or her instincts and tools around them to protect themselves and avoid the possibility of panic or “freezing up” causing them to also become a victim.

New to Chicago for Children's Self Defense, M.I.N.A. Children’s Self Defense addresses and uses the stimulation which occurs during an attack and prompts your child to react with a series of simple yet effective programmed responses in order to help Mom or Dad.

M.I.N.A. Children’s Self Defense will give your child the tools needed to survive an attack, face any situation with confidence, and give you security of mind that you do not have to worry about their safety. M.I.N.A. uses emotion to cause motion!

Contact us for more information!

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
www.Izzo-Training.com
www.SelfDefensePower.com

Wing Chun Kung Fu

2009-12-15T01:19:00.002-06:00

Wing Chun is a Southern Chinese Martial Art dating back 300 years ago. Wing Chun is an aggressive, "no nonsense" martial art which emphasises the use of the human body structure versus muscle, or brute force, to over come larger opponents.

Wing Chun is a linear martial art centering its concept around a straight line attack rather than circular motions. The idea being the shortest distance between two points is a straight line...so use it to attack your attacker.

Wing Chun, in its core, is direct, aggressive, ugly and violent. Wing Chun possesses in its heart the true nature of fighting. Therefore the Wing Chun practitioner must realise that training to protect yourself does come with the responsibility to cause physical harm to another person...that of course is a last resort and if another human intends to do harm to you as well.

Not a "sport" martial art, Wing Chun cannot be used in today's MMA or competitive tournaments due to the fact that true Wing Chun does not possess rules. I.E. if the out come of a fight was dependant on thrusting your fingers into your enemy's eyes to protect yourself...that is the path you must take. MMA and other forms of competition obviously have rules.

In my opinion, one of the greatest things about Wing Chun is its origin . Wing Chun is the only martial art every "invented" by a woman.

Wing Chun also was the primary martial art studied by Bruce Lee.

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
Izzo Training Systems

www.Izzo-Training.com

www.SelfDefensePower.com

Poor Little Rich Girls article

2009-12-09T22:02:00.001-06:00

This is an article written about Izzo Training Systems by Lacey Brenly of PoorLittleRichGirls.com

http://www.poorlittlerichgirls.com/the-best-defense-is-a-good-offense/

The importance of a straight line

2009-12-09T19:12:00.002-06:00

The Straight Punch is one of the most dangerous and effective strikes in fighting.

The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. The straight line in this instance covers the most direct path between your attacker and you. Shooting the punch directly to him forces him to react differently than he would to something that came circularly towards him.

Straight line attacks are also harder to judge timing wise because of perception with your field of vision. Your peripheral vision plays less of a role that it would in a circular attack, therefore making it more difficult to assess time and speed wise.

The straight punch uses the bottom 3 knuckles of your hand and has your elbow facing in a downward position, allowing greater assistance for delivered force from your skeletal structure.

Using the straight punch is a great way to defend as you attack as well. Thinking less about blocking an incoming attack and more on attacking your target, gives you a greater chance at dictating the pace of the fight... When in doubt, start hitting and hitting hard!

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
Izzo Training Systems

Women's Self Defense and Wing Chun Kung Fu
www.Izzo-Training.com
www.SelfDefensePower.com

Get off your ass.

2009-12-02T08:18:00.002-06:00

Just a quick thought...

Last time I read, history was made by those who got off their ass and achieved.

"Participation awards" and group medals are things we created in this recent time to promote sensitivity amongst those of us who need pushing...but do not get it.

Achievement builds character! Defeat builds character! We need both!

How does this apply to self defense? You think your attacker is going to give you a pat on the back and go easy on you just because you gave your best? GIVE MORE.

Demand more of yourself.

Dominick Izzo

www.izzo-training.com

www.selfdefensepower.com

The importance of Fitness for Self Defense

2009-11-27T08:27:00.004-06:00

Being in shape is a MUST for self defense. Without getting technical at all, think of the last time you ran up a flight of stairs, play wrestled with your child or significant other, ran in from the car to the house, boxed up a heavy box and moved it into another room...etc.

If any of those smallest of labors were huge for you, then it is a MUST you get into shape. Think of the slight "panting" you have done while finishing up those small things...can you imagine trying to fight of someone who is relentless in his task on killing or raping you? Get in shape! Turn the fight to them and make them gasp for air as you are tearing their lungs out!

I do not sugar coat anything when it comes to the idea of self defense training. If you are apprehensive about working out and unsure about taking up something new...bullshit , you are scared and lack confidence. If you are overweight just a bit and want to put it off until you get all your ducks in a row...bullshit, you are fat and lazy. You have kids, don't have a sitter, work 3 jobs, don't have money, are too old...bullshit, you are not creative and resourceful.

I have to be unforgiving as a trainer...and you do as well. You have to see things as they are and not what you THINK makes them. If I am not unforgiving on yourself and you are not unforgiving on your self...rest assured, your attacker will absolutely be unforgiving on you. Be just as unforgiving back!

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
"Not a Victim...Not Today!

http://www.izzo-training.com/

http://www.selfdefensepower.com/

Pain is My Friend

2009-11-20T05:11:00.002-06:00

Pain sucks. Physical pain is bearable to the level of your threshold tolerance. Some people can take a punch in the face...others cannot.

Emotional pain is unique. Some people can take being made fun of...others cannot.

Lies, betrayal, deceit, death of a loved one, confusion, insecurity... these are all pain and the degree in which some can bare and others cannot is personal and perceptive.

Emotional pain is my friend. Pain reminds me that when I am comfortable, I stop moving... I stop becomming. Pain tells me to get off my ass and achieve. Pain tells me that the only route to going anywhere is forward. Pain is self defense.

Without pain, without chaos, without distruption there is no you.

Think of most people who take up martial arts or self defense... there most likely had been a physical threat or personal "scare" which lead them to seek learning to protect themselves.

And pain was the catalyst to personal greatness in their training.

Pain is your friend. It tells you that you are alive! Do not fight your pain and do not run from your pain... Anthony Robbins says that we can fight our pain, dance with our pain, or lead our pain...

I agree and I say we should thank our pain, for without it we would be dead.

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems

www.Izzo-Training.com

www.SelfDefensePower.com

Self Defense and Belief

2009-11-16T16:57:00.002-06:00

One of the most difficult things to achieve in your personal life is the ability to truly believe in yourself.

Evey one has personal experiences of self doubt, self confidence and self worth... There is no shortage of confusion in this area considering we live in a world were we have plenty of people who feed into our lack of value.

"You can't do that." "You're not worth it." "You're not good enough."

Words from others are one thing...but actions are another.

Ever have the action of abandonment from another? Lack of attention? Physical abuse even?

I believe in the power of language and the power of action. And just as others in life I too have been at the receiving end of such negativity...

But in those times, I remember those who have supported me...those who have stood by and believed in what I could accomplish and would achieve. Those are who I fight for and that is the root of self defense.

Self Defense to me is a right and a preservation of who I am so that I may have a chance to help better those who believe in me. That is giving back or paying forward.

Your fuel should lie in the thought of the actions of those who turned their backs... and the power of your words should be very clear. "Fuck 'em."

Self sufficiency is amazing, but you get a huge boost from remembering those who have stood by you.

Dominick Izzo
Lead Instructor
Izzo Training Systems
www.Izzo-Training.com

www.SelfDefensePower.com

Peace to win War

2009-10-05T04:40:00.001-05:00

A fight is a war. Regardless of how many people involved, a fight is simply a war.

In the police academy they told us, when you tell a subject to do something, and he doesn't...you are at war.

So in a bar fight, domestic fight, street fight, you are at war with another human being.

In order to win such a war, you must daily think about peace and what peace is to you.

Peace to me is the laughter of my toddler niece. Peace is friends and family. Peace is the smell of fire places in Winter and the taste of good food. Peace is the idea of the man I am daily trying to become. I am obsessed with peace.

This is why I train in self defense, to preserve my peace and ensure that I will always have it.

The more I am in thought of peace, the less I am compelled to be at war.

Peace saves me...war simply stands in my way. Nothing will stand in my way to get my peace.

Train this way always.

Dominick Izzo
www.Izzo-Training.com

dominick@izzo-training.com

I was just schooled

2009-09-27T02:47:00.000-05:00

I spent my Saturday night in the company of a true teacher.

A 68 year old woman, mother, wife and now friend just educated me big-time.

I spend my days thinking about physical combat. Fighting...punches, attacks, strikes, etc. I preach over and over of the mental approach needed to secure victory! I talk passionately about fighting toward your goal of never being a victim! But what if you are one? What if you have been one? Where does the fight go then?

I was talking with this woman, Maureen, and for 2 hours I laughed at her jokes and had general conversations with her from Michael Jackson to hot dog stands in Chicago. We never once mentioned what I did for work, nor talked about any physical nature of combat or fighting...but I learned that this woman's middle name is fight!

During our conversation, she spoke about her passion for new adventure in her life! She spoke of her trials as a new stand-up comic in her 60's! She spoke of being on a TV series! She spoke of being a plain, hard working, good old fashioned bartender...and never once was Maureen's tone of voice anything less than up beat and positive. She was down right contagious to be around. I enjoyed the entirety of our conversations.

At one point in our conversation, we talked about dealing with "pain in the ass people" and life's stress. So, Maureen starts to tell me about her views on stress and life...and I listened.

She told me of how she lost her 22 year old daughter one year...

She told me how she lost her 33 year old son another year...

She told me how she came home to her house burnt to the ground...

AND NEVER ONCE WAS HER VOICE NEGATIVE!

This woman, told me of the most horrific, horrendous and painful events of her life....and she did it with hope for her future in her eyes shining as bright as the sun! Maureen has no idea what the word victim is.

"I won't dishonor my children by living my life as a negative person," Maureen told me...that is strength.

That was my lesson tonight. People do get hit and they get hit hard... Maureen was hit over and over again...and then she was hit again...BUT, she got her ass up! People like Maureen remind me to never lay down. As bad as the fight is, as hard as it is...as long as I keep getting up I will never be a victim. This is my creed.

I am proud to know a woman like this...this is the very root where Self-Defense begins. Personal Love and Hope.

I keep forgetting how amazing my life is and how amazing all those I meet daily are. You are all the reason for Izzo Training Systems and the reason I am passionate about self defense.

None of you are victims!

Dominick Izzo
www.izzo-training.com

Simplicity

2009-09-22T01:38:00.001-05:00

I, like most others in life, seem to make way more out of things than necessary.

Take acts of kindness...they are suspect to me.

Honesty...Where is the hidden agenda?

Loyalty...never turn my back on you...

These are merely conditioned responses to a lifetime of "learning lessons."

But what if they were exactly what they were?

What if life is a fight and we must take it as it is? Can this be applied to the concept of real fighting? I believe so.

In a self defense circumstance, the "self" is key to survival. A punch may be thrown, but is it really just a punch? Or is is a jab which "feels" you out?

Get punched in the face enough, and a punch is just that what it sells itself to be...a punch.

Trusting ourselves to not complicated fighting is just as hard as it is to trust ourselves in life.

The only "must" we have is to continue to fight...to get back up...to move forward and to fight back!

Fighting is as old as our existence...self defense is life.

Fight others but never yourself.

Confusion

2009-09-03T04:11:00.000-05:00

Vince Lombardi once said, "Its hard to be aggressive when you're confused."

I couldn't agree more.

How this may apply to the area of self defense training is simple. You cannot train with the mindset of what or how you will defend against what or from whom... You must train for yourself!

When punching in the air, we learn that the power of your punch will actually increase, versus punching a pad or a bag. This is in part because of the fact that when punching a bag, we anticipate the impact. When punching in the air, we just let it fly. As Master Phil Nearing of Chicago puts it, "Let it go...who cares where the energy goes."

So, in that aspect of training for punching power, we are training not to hit a target rather, we are training to perfect ourselves... Make sense?

Train for yourself. Take away the confusion, remember we are training for us and not them.

Not a Victim...Not Today!

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
www.Izzo-Training.com

Self Defense Classes for Chicago and the Northwest Suburban Area

Why Women's Self Defense?

2009-08-28T02:41:00.000-05:00

The history of my life has been surrounded by the strength of amazing women. Roll models who could teach men what true strength was.

It was through these women in which I learned the true meaning of the word "strength."

This definition came not from their ability to fight physically some foe or save the day against some oppressive brute, or even lift heavy objects, but rather through their holding their heads held high through times of adversity and pain.

So many of us view self defense as learning to punch, kick or break free from a choke hold or wrist grab... I think, rather, that self defense is what the women in my life have taught me it is... to hold your ground and not back down from who you truly are.

Being yourself in life is the most demanding path we ever choose. It is filled with routes of escape toward easier rolls and lies which often lead to confusion and self loss of worth.

The true strength of self defense lies not in your punch, but in the will and fortitude of who you are that powers that punch forward!

Not a Victim...Not Today!

Dominick Izzo
Izzo Training Systems
Proudly Serving Chicago and The North West Suburbs in Self Defense
Hoffman Estates, South Barrington and Northbrook Illinois

What is Women's Self Defense?

2009-08-27T17:40:00.000-05:00

Women's Self Defense, in my view, has always been a class, or a seminar, or a program designed to teach women how to defend themselves against the classical menacing man-figure who is stalking you in a dark and empty parking garage...

Women's Self Defense teaches how to defend yourself against such horror, such uncertainty, such fear...

But I submit to you two concepts... The first being the word "defense". In my personal view, I abhor this word when it comes to self defense. Now granted, it has to be called "self defense" to be located in google searches or phone book logs, but when it is stripped down to its bare essence, protecting yourself is not defense...it is preservation. In preserving your life, I submit to you that defense is not the word to use... Attack is.

What do I mean by attack? Picture this...

Scenario 1:
A man walks up to you and clearly says to you, "I am going to take your purse, break your arm, blast open your nose on your face and kick you 10 times while you are on the ground."

How do you feel?

Scenario 2:
The same man walks up to you and leans into your personal space and with a clear voice says, "I am going to take your child from you... I am going to torture them and kill them..."

HOW DO YOU FEEL NOW!?

If your blood rose to your face and you felt like killing me for writing that...then you just found out the difference between self defense and self ATTACK!

The second concept I submit to your review is the person you will be preserving your personal safety from...

Who says it is going to be some strange rapist in a parking garage?!

Approximately 1.3 million women and 835,000 men are physically assaulted by an intimate partner annually in the United States.
Patricia Tjaden & Nancy Thoennes, U.S. Dep't of Just., NCJ 183781, Full Report of the Prevalence, Incidence, and Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence Against Women: Findings from the National Violence Against Women Survey, at iv (2000), available at http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/pubs-sum/183781.htm

I call it the, "it can't happen to me" excuse.

What about your spouse? Your boyfriend? Your brother? The great guy you met last week and are going out for date 3 with?

Ignorance can no longer be afforded! Look at the stress of this economy. What happens when your husband of 30 years just came home after being laid off of his job of 20 years...what if the stress makes him do something to you that you thought was unimaginable?

That is where self defense and preservation truly become a scary issue. Can you protect yourself from your loved one? Can you, in the time of need, perform an act so violent to someone you care so much for, as to cause injury to them and even kill them?

It is down right disgusting to even think of. But after years of service as a police officer in Illinois, I feel that this issue is alive and well and not talked about enough... and by not talking about it, the violence will never stop.

For more information, training, or comments visit http://www.izzo-training.com/

Classes are in Hoffman Estates, South Barrington and Northbrook Illinois.

Izzo Training Systems is passionate about women's self defense along with educating and empowering the women of Chicago and the North West Suburban Area.