Frequently Asked Questions

  • Ving Tsun (often spelled Wing Chun) is a Southern Chinese martial art known for its close-range efficiency, adaptability, and direct movements. It emphasizes structure, timing, and sensitivity over brute strength. Training focuses on real-world application, making it suitable for self-defense, mobility, and mental focus. Derived from the Shaolin temple, Ving Tsun Kung Fu is a martial art rooted in relaxation and designed to develop effective fighting ability as quickly as possible.

  • Not at all. About half our students come in with no martial arts background, while others have decades of experience in different styles. Ving Tsun is designed to be accessible from day one—based on clear principles, not memorized routines. Whether starting fresh or refining a lifetime of movement, we meet students where they are.

  • Our students range in age from their teens to their 80s. Ving Tsun is highly adaptable and can be practiced by anyone, regardless of size, strength, or athletic background. Training emphasizes efficiency, awareness, and relaxed power, making it accessible to beginners, everyday movers, and lifelong martial artists alike.

  • Ving Tsun builds functional mobility, joint stability, and mental focus through mindful repetition and controlled practice. Benefits include:

    Balance and coordination – improving structure and timing awareness

    Posture and core strength – strengthening stance and movement mechanics

    Stress reduction – rhythmic drills and partner practice calm the nervous system

    Joint and tendon health – helpful for arthritis, carpal tunnel, and other chronic conditions

    Rehabilitation and adaptability – training can be tailored for Parkinson’s, prior surgeries, or limited mobility

    Emotional and mental well-being – consistent practice builds calm, confidence, and clarity

  • Each class emphasizes repetition and structure, training the body and mind to respond efficiently under pressure. Students practice standing forms, partner drills, and controlled contact exercises to develop timing, reflexes, and sensitivity. Rather than chasing techniques, training teaches one to recognize and respond naturally, building skill and confidence over time.

  • Beginner classes are one hour. Most students train 1–3 times per week, combining in-person and online classes to fit their schedule. We also offer private lessons with the Sifu for personalized guidance or focused skill development.

    Training options include:

    Group classes – beginner to advanced levels

    Private lessons – one-on-one instruction

    Online classes – live sessions via Zoom

  • Yes. We offer online classes via live Zoom sessions, so students can train from home or supplement their in-person training. Online classes cover the same material as in-person sessions, including forms, drills, and chi sao practice, ensuring progress is consistent regardless of location.

  • Yes. We provide women-only classes designed to create a supportive environment for learning Ving Tsun. These classes focus on structure, timing, and confidence, and are open to all experience levels.

  • Please see our schedule page for up to date information but generally, our class schedule is:

    Monday, Wednesday, Friday

    6:00–7:00 PM | Main ProgramOnline (Zoom)

    7:00–9:00 PM | Main ProgramIn-Person

    Saturday

    10:00 AM–12:00 PM | Women’s ClassIn-Person + Online

    12:00–2:00 PM | Main ProgramIn-Person

    Private lessons are scheduled by appointment.

  • Northside Kung Fu is located in Albany Park, on Chicago’s North Side, near the intersection of Kedzie Avenue and Montrose Avenue. We're easily accessible from neighborhoods like North Park, Ravenswood, Irving Park, Lincoln Square, Logan Square, and Wicker Park. Street parking is available nearby, and the CTA Brown Line (Kedzie stop) is just a short walk away.

    Our address is 4432 N Kedzie Ave, Suite #200 Chicago, IL 60625

  • Schedule an introductory lesson where we will take you through the basics and get you ready for your first class.

  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to move in, along with flat-soled shoes or sneakers. Expect a light workout—no special gear or uniforms are needed to start.