UMF Student Michael Sheridan’s Book Featured in Townsville Bulletin

Earlier this month, Sifu Pablo Cardenas and UMF student Michael Sheridan were both featured in the Townsville Bulletin. 

The article details Sheridan’s latest adventure, writing a children’s book that describes the origins of one of the world’s oldest forms of martial arts. Drawing on his passion for the martial art, Sheridan talks in detail about the origins of the art and how it has developed for modern times, through the lens of a children’s book.

Wing Chun is an ancient form of martial arts that was created through inspiration from important historical figures and events. Throughout the book, readers will be enchanted by the fact, fiction, and legend that has inspired Wing Chun.

Popularised in Hollywood through the exploits of Bruce Lee, the true significance of Wing Chun lies in its foundations. As one of the only martial arts founded by a woman, it is an important fact that empowers many of the women that take up the art. Sheridan’s book is developed in line with UMF principles, covering themes of anti-bullying and female empowerment.

Wing Chun has spread globally since the proliferation of the art through mediums like Hollywood movies. However, Cardenas believes there is more to it than that.

“The worldwide spread of the art of Wing Chun Kung Fu is a testament to its adaptability. It is able to transcend age, gender, size, ability and disability, all with the mindset of improving mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing.”

For anyone that practices Wing Chun, at any age, the book outlines clearly the history of the art, and gives important context to its expansion today. Cardenas notes it is a great read for parents and children, as it is a medium for parents to teach their kids valuable lessons.

The article has helped bring more awareness to the type of training done at UMF, and how the legendary history of Wing Chun is being carried on today. Cardenas’s academy puts self-control, the confidence to socialise in a group, trust in your training partner, and respect, at the forefront of training. Cardenas does not believe in offering casual classes for Wing Chun, as the importance of pushing the individual’s physical and mental ability cannot be downplayed. When students are moved to perform at a higher level, they achieve the most growth. 

Despite how widespread the art of Wing Chun is, there is always further for it to spread. Wing Chun provokes a strong passion for the art in all those who study it. Its comprehensive training involves more than just drills and techniques. It teaches students a sense of discipline and resilience that are easily translated into other aspects of their life. The importance of training both the mind and the body is stressed by Cardenas.

The beauty of the art of Wing Chun is that it has its roots in universal principles, and students are able to express them accordingly in practice, or however they use the principles in their day-to-day life. The conceptual backing of Wing Chun is what gives it the dual ability to evolve with modern interpretations yet still retain its timelessness.

Cardenas notes that when it comes to Wing Chun, it is never solely about the strength in your strike, but in fact, how well you can economise your movements and the judgements behind your actions. The beauty of the Wing Chun Kung Fu system, is that it was developed to help individuals with more average builds have a level playing field when facing larger opponents.

Whether you are a first-time learner or an experienced trainer, you will find value within the pages of this book. It is a great chance to understand the history of the art, for those looking to commit properly to a martial art. Even for experienced students of the system, it is important to refresh your knowledge wherever you can and renew your appreciation.

Regardless of the reason you are looking to learn Wing Chun, Pablo Cardenas and his UMF Academy are passionate about teaching and instilling the virtues of the arts to all students that come through the door. UMF has developed a specially devised ranking system that students can use to track their progress, but Cardenas puts a particular emphasis on the impact personal development plays when practising, and uses this as an indication of progression. Contact UMF today to secure yourself a copy of Wing Chun And The Five Kung Fu Masters by Michael Sheridan or to book in with a trial class to begin your journey in learning the art of Wing Chun Kung Fu.