This is the first form of Wing Chun.  There are as many variations in the spelling of this form as well as in the performance of it.  Sil Lim Tao teaches the correct positioning of the elbow, protection of the centerline, and economy of movement in both attack and defense.

Translated, Sil Lim Tao means “the little idea form”, has 108 movements, and is broken into three sections. 

The first section develops dynamic tension, strength, flexibility, and tension in the arms.  The second section develops the proper use of power, concentrating its focus between ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ power, depending on the circumstance of the application.  The third section’s focus is on tension and relaxation.

“(Sil LIm Tao) is the dictionary of Wing Chun.  It is now definitive in so far as any applications, but contains the vital elements essential to energy and position training: the foundation of the system.” – Yip Chun (son of Grandmaster Yip Man)