What is Wing Chun?

Wing Chun is a Chinese Martial Art said to have been developed during the reign of Emperor K'angshi (1662 - 1722) by a nun called Ng Mui. She developed the style purely for practical effectiveness in order to defend herself against much younger, stronger and fitter men. It was the burning of the Shaolin Temple that forced her to flee to Tai Leung mountain, in Southern China, that prompted the birth of Wing Chun Kuen.

The Wing Chun system was passed down over the years only to family members or close friends, with the art being continually refined through fighting experiences. It was taught in this manner until 1949, when Grandmaster Yip Man fled Fatshan, China to settle in Hong Kong. Here he was forced to teach Wing Chun openly for the first time, in order to earn a living. Yip Man taught from 1949 until his death in 1972, during which time he taught many students including his own two sons and the Late Bruce Lee.

From Yip Man Wing Chun has spread around the globe and gained popularity for its simple yet effective techniques. Students of the Grandmaster have moved from China, taking their perception of Wing Chun with them, to pursue education and/or occupation. Wing Chun is personal to each and every practitioner and emphasis is placed on the education of the student in the control and use of his/her body. This skill is key in the development of the Martial Artist and the person. It does not matter what sex, size or physical ability you have Wing Chun will teach you how to use what you have.

Yip Chun, the son of Yip Man, continues to promote the art that his father played such a great part in. Master Yip Chun still teaches at the age of 80 and is a proof to the health benefits of the Wing Chun system. Cheltenham Wing Chun Kuen are proud to have been taught Yip Man Wing Chun through Sifu Shaun Rawcliffe and Master Yip Chun.