Wing Chun Halesowen’s chief instructor Sifu Alan Bagley, has been passionately involved in martial arts since 1992.
As the author of the book Taking the Martial, Sifu Bagley deeply understands the importance of the martial arts journey and its transformative power.
Sifu Bagley’s martial arts journey began with Kickboxing and Lau Gar Kung Fu. The rigorous conditioning and physical demands of participating in tournaments, travelling across the country, and testing his skills against thousands of other dedicated practitioners were significant attractions in the early days. This rich and diverse experience has shaped Sifu Bagley’s approach to teaching, instilling in his students a profound appreciation for the discipline, resilience, and lifelong benefits that martial arts can offer.
Sifu Alan Bagley’s dedication to martial arts extends beyond his own practice; he has been actively involved in the community, helping with exhibitions and charity kickboxing demonstrations. For Sifu Alan, martial arts became a way of life.
Sifu Alan Bagley has great respect for anyone learning martial arts, regardless of the style. The ethos of his club emphasizes a positive attitude towards all martial arts, recognizing the time and dedication required to master any discipline. No disparaging remarks about other styles are tolerated.
Why Wing Chun?
Sifu Alan’s interest in Wing Chun began with a chance sparring session with a fellow Wing Chun student. Though he was familiar with Bruce Lee, he had not heard of Wing Chun. This experience marked a turning point, profoundly altering his understanding of martial arts. The lesson highlighted the differences between a sport and a fighting art, showcasing the effectiveness of Wing Chun’s speed and direct approach.
Curious and eager to learn, Sifu Alan delved deeper into the Wing Chun system. Today, he proudly offers a forward-thinking, open, and progressive Wing Chun program that fosters a family-like atmosphere and personal touch. He feels privileged to teach Wing Chun and is supported by a dedicated group of students.
Sifu Alan holds a Level 2 Coaches Certificate through the BCCMA and is enhanced DBS checked and registered.
He extends his gratitude to SiFu Shaun Rawcliffe, Kwok Wan, and Umar Choudhury for their invaluable instruction and advice over the years. Special thanks also go to Anthony “Sparky” Atkinson, Neil ‘Flex’ Kelly, ‘Solid’ Colin Treasure, and Winston Gordon for their foundational contributions to his martial arts journey.
Taking the Martial by Alan Bagley: A Brief Review
In Taking the Martial, Sifu Alan Bagley takes readers on an inspiring journey through his extensive martial arts career, starting from his early days in kickboxing and Lau Gar Kung Fu to his profound discovery of Wing Chun. Bagley’s narrative is not just about his personal evolution but also a deeper exploration of the essence of martial arts.
The book is a compelling mix of autobiographical elements and practical insights. Bagley shares his experiences from competing in tournaments to engaging in community demonstrations and charity events, illustrating how martial arts became a fundamental part of his life. His chance encounter with Wing Chun during a sparring session serves as a pivotal moment, leading him to a newfound appreciation for the speed, efficiency, and direct approach of this unique style.
What sets Taking the Martial apart is Bagley’s inclusive philosophy. He emphasizes respect for all martial arts disciplines, fostering a culture of mutual admiration and learning. This ethos is reflected in his teaching style and the supportive, family-like atmosphere he has cultivated at Wing Chun Halesowen.
Bagley’s gratitude towards his mentors and peers is evident throughout the book, making it a heartfelt tribute to those who have influenced his journey. His detailed account of the practical and philosophical aspects of martial arts offers valuable lessons for practitioners of all levels.
In essence, Taking the Martial is more than a memoir; it’s a guide to understanding the deeper meaning of martial arts and its impact on personal growth. Sifu Alan Bagley’s passion and respect for martial arts shine through, making this book a must-read for enthusiasts and practitioners alike.