Wing Chun Traditional Rules of Conduct

as passed on by Ip Man

Wing Chun Kung Fu is more than just learning to defend yourself. The late Ip Man (1893 – 1972) understood the huge destructive power of the art of Wing Chun Kung Fu, and that learning such and art should come with moral responsibility. Wing Chun also involves a great degree of personal development. Ip Man wrote a code of conduct to remind students that Wing Chun was more than just fighting and this can be seen on the wall of the Ving Tsun Athletic Association (V.T.A.A.) in Hong Kong as well as the walls of many Wing Chun Kung Fu schools throughout the world.Remain disciplined – Conduct yourself ethically as a martial artist.

• Practice courtesy and righteousness – Serve the society and respect your elders.
• Love your fellow students – Be united and avoid conflicts.
• Limit your desires and pursuit of bodily pleasures – Preserve the proper spirit.
• Train diligently – Maintain your skills.
• Learn to develop spiritual tranquillity – Abstain from arguments and fights.
• Participate in society – Be moderate and gentle in your manners.
• Help the weak and the very young – Use martial skills for the good of humanity.
• Pass on the tradition – Preserve this Chinese art and rules of conduct.