Wing Chun Vs Sparring?

I often hear students say to me that they did some sparring with a friend of theirs who studies (insert style here) and, “They were all over me, what was I doing wrong?”

Answer:

You tried to spar using Wing Chun.

Wing Chun is not a sport.  Of course there are many benefits to this beautiful style but originally this was designed for protection, real life or death, and, against a bigger stronger opponent.  Not to put on gloves and trade blows. Sparring is fine but do remember, it’s not Wing Chun.

Here is a fine example of why Wing Chun should not be used in competition or even sparring, and how gloves would limit your potential anyway.