Intent and follow through
Hello,
I think that something which is often overlooked is the intent and pressure one applies while doing something.
For example consider a Chin Na or typical joint lock technique. When not applied fully it is possible to apply the technique and find it does not work. However, when applied with full force and speed the same technique which previously "failed" now works as it should or is expected.
In some of my Silat training I learned that what makes some things effective is the constant forward force when applied. When practicing a Juru if you do not have the forward intent the technique or concept will not work as well or sometimes at all.
I believe that the same thing is true with Wing Chun. Often we hear talk about constant forward pressure. However, in application this is not often the case. Without the constant forward intent, once a bridge is established, then a lot of things may not work. This can lead to frustration and lack of confidence in how things are applied and done.
Now please do not misunderstand that I mean to simply always drive forward blindly with no regard to proper structure or forced, but to apply a technique or concept half way will not work in many situations.
In my thinking, a big part of why some things fail is that those who try to apply something do not do it fully or with full intent. There is always a little bit holding back and that is where the opponent gets a slight edge which they may be able to exploit.
Of course, the more highly skilled the opponent the better your structure and technique needs to be to work. The way to develop this proper technique and structure is by slow steady practice with gradually increasing pressure. When one can apply your movements with full forward force and intent and your opponent resists fully then you will see whether something works or not.
I think one of my favorite examples would be the Bic Bo. If you step not so deeply then the move is not as effective. When you step fully, and correctly, your step and forward pressure will in and of itself help to disrupt the opponents balance and structure. The object is to learn the proper amount of pressure and angle to apply. Not too little and not so much that you lose your own structure. However, without the actual full step the result will not provide the best support for your technique. Far easier to show in person but hopefully some of this makes sense.
Please do not take this to mean that Wing Chun is too deadly for the ring or any other such, however when done with full pressure and intent, the art can provide a rather decent and reliable method of combat.
Bottom line is that if you do not execute your movements fully and with proper intent they are far less likely to work. Not a failing of the technique but perhaps of the technician.
A lot of Crap is out there and everyone believes they practice the best approach. Just as everyone is not wrong............everyone is also not right.