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The Legacy of Sifu Joseph Lee: Wing Chun Mastery in Southeast London Preserving the Authentic Art of Wing Chun In the heart of Southeast London, a remarkable martial arts legacy continues to thrive through the dedicated teachings of Sifu Joseph Lee, a true master of Wing Chun Kung Fu. Our club stands as a beacon of traditional martial arts training, carrying forward a lineage that connects directly to the roots of this powerful fighting system. A Lineage of Excellence Sifu Joseph Lee's journey in Wing Chun is a testament to decades of rigorous training and deep respect for the art's traditional principles. Trained under some of the most respected masters in the Wing Chun community, he represents a direct link to the classical techniques developed by legendary practitioners. What Makes Our Lineage Special - **Authentic Technique**: Direct transmission from senior masters - **Comprehensive Training**: From beginner to advanced levels - **Traditional Approach**: Emphasizing both physical and mental discipline Why Train Wing Chun in Southeast London? Our club offers more than just martial arts classes – we provide a transformative experience that: - Builds practical self-defense skills - Improves physical fitness - Develops mental focus and discipline - Creates a supportive community of practitioners Learn from a True Lineage Holder Sifu Joseph Lee brings over 30 years of martial arts experience, ensuring that every student receives world-class instruction rooted in the most authentic Wing Chun traditions. Join Our Wing Chun Family Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced martial artist, our Southeast London wing chun club welcomes you to explore this incredible martial art. Special Offer for New Students 🥋 **First Trial Class FREE!** 🥋 **Beginners Welcome** 🥋 **No Prior Experience Necessary** Connect With Us 📍 Location: Bromley Kent 📞 Contact: [Your Contact Information] 📧 Email: message us on WIX - 108 Wing Chun #WingChun #MartialArts #SelfDefense #LondonFitness #SoutheastLondon #MartialArtTraining #WingChunKungFu #SifuJosephLee #LondonMartialArts #SelfImprovement

When Lee Shing came from Hong Kong to London in 1955 he was sent as the ambassador for the Yip Man Athletic Association. Prior to this he had opened his own school of wing chun in Hong Kong with the blessing and the opening by grandmaster yip man. This is so long ago but unfortunately these monumental moments in modern wing chun history have been largely forgotten and I say for some deliberately so for many commercial and egotistical reasons. In any of them Lee went onto propagate the first generation of Chinese wing chun instructors in London/England in the 1960s and 70s. He also continued with the legacy of grandmaster yip by maintaining a very secretive opening “closed door“ “approach to his teaching and no non-Chinese were allowed to take part in these classes. The world was a very different time. We’re now talking well over 50 years ago, this is something that the modern generation of wing chun practitioners probably cannot even conceive. Nevertheless, it is the accurate history of the birth of wing chun in Europe which started in London and propagated out the cross to Europe. Many of the famous early karate practitioners such as Terry O’Neal and Steve Morris also sort out and trained in this art with Joseph Cheng who went onto become the sultan of Brunei bodyguard. Such of now long since become legend in the UK wing chun archives and only those of the older generation even though of such wing chun royalty. This photograph is very important , especially for those that know , it shows Lee Shing with a young Yip Chun. Lee played host to Yip Chun when he first came to the U.K. and obviously contributed to propagate and promote the system of wing chun popularised in Hong Kong by his late father. At 108 wing chun we continue to honour and promote this legacy and these teachings in our traditional wing chun program which is unsurpassed by any other in terms of knowledge, lineage and history. If you are genuinely interested in learning from a source as close to the origin as possible, then why not get in touch and book a lesson? #wingchun #yipman #london #martialarts #wingchung #vingtsun #kungfu #sidcup #chislehurst #bromley #brucelee

Here in London U.K. a true wing chun master has hidden in plain sight for decades. The day that I met him he told me I had won the lottery and he was absolutely right. Truly a diamond amongst the rough, and the legacy of Grand Master Lee Shing. Sifu Joseph Lee passes on that tradition today to a few favoured few including Sifu Paul Finn & who is extremely proud to pass on a legacy and tradition traced all the way back to the King of Wing chun the legendary Grand Master Leung Jaan of Gulau Village. The legacy is totally different to the standard wing chun people associate with Yip Man and Hong Kong. It is famous and characterised by the Big Idea Form. Sifu Joseph passes on the secrets of the Big Idea to those who have spent decades with him training closed door ( private ) & Sifu Paul is one of the fortunate few to have been taught the form, its applications and the two man sets. If you are interested in learning about this rare and largely secretive art then get in touch with 108 Wing Chun. This is truly something that you will not be able to find anywhere else especially in its original form.

Wing Chun, a martial art with a rich heritage, is celebrated for its holistic approach, historical accuracy, and lineage that traces back to its origins in China. The art form, approximately 200 years old, was developed in Southern China during the Ching dynasty as a means of resistance against oppressive Manchu rule. It was designed to be efficient, allowing practitioners to become proficient in a shorter time compared to other martial arts. The legendary Grandmaster Yip Man played a pivotal role in popularizing Wing Chun in the 20th century. He began teaching in Hong Kong in the 1950s, and his teachings have been passed down through generations. One of his students, Lee Shing, brought Wing Chun to London’s Chinatown in the 1950s, further spreading its influence. Lee was appointed as the president of the yip man athletic Association and such brought this incredible heritage and Legacy to Europe for the first time unfortunately, today, his importance to the international development of wing chun is not largely recognised and this is a great shame as he is without doubt one of the most influential and important, practitioners of the art in the last generation Today, 108 Wing Chun continues this legacy, offering a comprehensive curriculum that spans from foundational techniques to advanced applications. The training is designed to be holistic, enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Sifu Paul Finn, a certified instructor in the lineage of Yip Man and Lee Shing, emphasises traditional and functional martial arts suitable for modern society[. This continuity ensures that Wing Chun remains a historically accurate and culturally rich martial art. #wingchun #wingchung #yipman #ipman #kungfu #sidcuo #bromley #london #martialarts #brucelee #vingtsun #bexley

Embracing the True Essence of Wing Chun: A Journey with Sifu Joseph Lee Last Thursday, I had the privilege of training with my esteemed teacher, Sifu Joseph Lee. Our session, focused on the art of sticky hands, was a humbling reminder of his exceptional skill and patience. Wing Chun, often misunderstood by the public and misrepresented by some instructors, is a profound martial art demanding technical precision and depth of understanding. Sifu Joseph Lee, a direct student of Grandmaster Lee Shing, embodies the authentic spirit of Wing Chun. His dedication to preserving its true essence is inspiring, and it is our duty to pass on this legacy. By educating the broader martial arts community, we can ensure that Wing Chun's rich tradition is respected and continued. Join us in this mission by sharing the benefits of Wing Chun with your family and friends. Together, we can grow our unique community and uphold the art's true values. #wingchun #martialarts #wingchung #vingtsun #bromley #london #kent #sidcup #vingtsun #brucelee #kungfu #jkd #ipman

108 Wing Chun stands out among local martial arts clubs due to its rich history and the exceptional qualifications of Sifu Paul Finn. With over three decades of experience, Sifu Paul is certified by top martial arts authorities, including being one of only two certified black belt Wing Chun Sifus in Europe authorized by Sifu Francis Fong. His expertise spans multiple martial arts, including Wing Chun, JKD, and Kali, making 108 Wing Chun a comprehensive training community. The club offers a unique blend of traditional and modern martial arts, fostering a supportive and enriching environment. #MartialArts #WingChun #PaulFinn #SelfDefense #MartialArtsHistory #Fitness #WellBeing #MartialArtsTraining #LondonMartialArts #108WingChun

The controversy surrounding Lee Shing Wing Chun primarily revolves around the recognition and dissemination of Lee Shing's contributions to Wing Chun in Europe. Lee Shing, a student of Ip Man, played a pivotal role in introducing and teaching Wing Chun in the UK, particularly in London, during the 1960s and 1970s. Despite his significant influence, his contributions have often been overshadowed by others who have sought fame and commercial success in the Wing Chun community. Key Issues 1. Recognition and Legacy: Lee Shing's impact on Wing Chun in Europe is substantial, yet he is not widely recognized in mainstream martial arts literature. His teachings emphasised traditional methods, preserving the authentic teachings of Ip Man, which some argue have been diluted by others seeking commercial gain. 2. Teaching Methods: Lee Shing was known for his private and small group lessons, focusing on core techniques like the wooden dummy form. His approach was less commercial, which may have contributed to his lesser-known status compared to others who capitalised on Wing Chun's popularity. 3. Internal Community Dynamics: Within the Wing Chun community, there has been some tension regarding the authenticity and purity of different lineages. Lee Shing's students, such as Joseph Lee, have continued to teach his methods, but there is a sense that his contributions have been marginalised by those promoting a more diluted version of Wing Chun. Conclusion and Impact The controversy highlights the challenges in preserving traditional martial arts in the face of commercialization. For the martial arts community, particularly in the UK, this serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and preserving the contributions of key figures like Lee Shing. His story underscores the ongoing debate about authenticity and tradition in martial arts, influencing how Wing Chun is taught and perceived today. #wingchu #wingchung #ipman #yipman #kungfu #bromley #kent #london #martialarts #gungfu

the benefits of starting martial arts training immediately and maintaining continuity: The Power of Now: Why You Should Start Martial Arts Training Today In the bustling streets of London, where life moves at a breakneck pace, it's easy to put off personal goals and aspirations. However, when it comes to martial arts training, there's no better time to start than right now. Let's explore why immediate action and consistent practice are crucial for your martial arts journey. The Perils of Procrastination "I'll start next week," "I need to get in shape first," or "I'm too busy right now" - these are common excuses we tell ourselves. But here's the truth: there will never be a perfect time to begin. Life will always be busy, and waiting until you're "ready" often means never starting at all. By delaying, you're missing out on invaluable benefits that could be transforming your life right now. Immediate Benefits of Starting Today 1. **Instant Stress Relief**: In today's high-pressure world, martial arts provide an immediate outlet for stress. The focus required during training helps clear your mind and release tension. 2. **Rapid Improvement in Physical Fitness**: From day one, you'll notice improvements in your flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. Why wait to feel better? 3. **Boost in Self-Confidence**: Learning new skills and overcoming challenges in martial arts classes provides an immediate boost to your self-esteem. 4. **Immediate Self-Defense Skills**: Even basic techniques learned in your first few classes can be life-saving in real-world situations. The Compounding Effect of Continuity I look forward to welcoming YOU to our group NOW

The Importance of Authentic Wing Chun Training In the world of martial arts, authenticity and lineage matter. This is particularly true for Wing Chun, a Chinese martial art known for its efficiency and practicality. As our club's commitment to traditional Wing Chun demonstrates, there are significant benefits to learning from recognized Sifus with proper Chinese heritage, as opposed to more modernized or watered-down versions of the art. 1. Preserving the Essence of Wing Chun Authentic Wing Chun carries with it centuries of refined techniques and philosophical principles. By training with a Sifu who has a direct lineage to the art's origins, you ensure that you're learning Wing Chun as it was intended. This preserves the core principles that make Wing Chun effective, such as economy of motion, centerline theory, and simultaneous attack and defense. 2. Understanding the Context and Culture Wing Chun isn't just a set of physical techniques; it's deeply rooted in Chinese culture and philosophy. A recognized Sifu from a proper Chinese heritage can provide insights into the cultural context of Wing Chun, enhancing your understanding of why certain techniques are used and how they relate to broader concepts in Chinese martial arts. 3. Correct Application of Techniques Many modern interpretations of Wing Chun lack the depth of understanding required for proper application. Authentic training ensures that you not only learn the techniques but also understand how to apply them effectively in real-world situations. This includes the subtle nuances that can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of a technique. 4. Avoiding Misinterpretations Without a strong connection to its roots, Wing Chun can be misinterpreted or diluted. Some modern versions may incorporate elements from other martial arts or omit crucial aspects of traditional training. This can lead to a practice that, while perhaps still calling itself Wing Chun, has lost much of what makes the art unique and effective. 5. Holistic Training Approach Traditional Wing Chun training often includes aspects that may be overlooked in modernized versions. This could include chi sau (sticky hands) drills, proper stance training, and the development of sensitivity and reflexes. A comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded martial artist. 6. Connection to a Lineage Training with a recognized Sifu connects you to a lineage of practitioners stretching back generations. This not only provides a sense of community and tradition but also ensures that the knowledge passed down to you has been tested and refined over time. 7. Mental and Spiritual Development Authentic Wing Chun training often emphasizes mental and spiritual development alongside physical skills. This holistic approach can lead to personal growth beyond just martial capability. Conclusion While modernization and adaptation have their place in martial arts, there's irreplaceable value in learning Wing Chun from its authentic source. By choosing to train with recognised Sifus such as 108 who have a proper Chinese heritage, you're not just learning a martial art – you're becoming part of a rich tradition that has stood the test of time. Our club's commitment to this authentic approach ensures that our members receive the full benefits of Wing Chun, preserving this remarkable art for future generations.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ #wingchun #wingchung #vingtsun #kungfu #gungfu #ipman #yipman #martialarts #bromley #sidcup #kent

Joseph Cheng played a significant role in popularizing Wing Chun kung fu in the United Kingdom during the 1970s and 1980s. He arrived in the UK from China in the early 1970s, coinciding with the rising popularity of kung fu sparked by Bruce Lee's fame. Cheng's credentials were impressive, having studied under Grand Master Lee Shing, who was a student of Wing Chun founder Ip Man. This lineage connected Cheng directly to the roots of Wing Chun, giving him considerable authority in the martial arts community. In the UK, Cheng established the Chong Woo Kwan club in London, which became a focal point for Wing Chun instruction. He also taught seminars across the country, including at clubs in Preston, where he left a lasting impression on young martial artists. Cheng's impact extended beyond just teaching. He actively promoted Wing Chun to a wider audience through various media channels. He featured in popular martial arts magazines, including a cover appearance in Karate and Oriental Arts. Additionally, he demonstrated his skills on the children's TV show "HOW!", showcasing spectacular feats like bending a Shaolin spear with his adam's apple. Furthermore, Cheng authored a book on Wing Chun, which became well-respected in martial arts circles. This publication helped codify and disseminate Wing Chun techniques to a broader audience, contributing to the art's growth in the UK. Cheng's willingness to teach foreigners was particularly noteworthy, as it broke from the traditional Chinese reluctance to share martial arts knowledge outside their community. This openness helped accelerate the spread of Wing Chun in the UK and beyond. Through his teaching, demonstrations, and publications, Joseph Cheng played a crucial role in establishing Wing Chun as a respected and widely practiced martial art in the UK during the 1970s and 1980s. 108 Wing Chun carries on the legacy and tradition of Lee Shing Wing Chub in London Sourh East. #wingchun #yipman #ipman #vingtsun #brucelee #martialarts #london #kent #sidcup #bromley #chislehurst #kungfu

Paul Finn is a highly accomplished martial arts instructor based in London, with over three decades of experience across various disciplines. His journey in martial arts began at the age of 12 with judo, under Professor Seiji Morioka[1]. He later expanded his training to include Shotokan Karate, Bujutsu, and Wing Chun Gung Fu. Finn's impressive background includes studying with renowned masters such as Grandmaster Yip Chun in Hong Kong and Guro Dan Inosanto in the United States[1]. He holds certifications in multiple martial arts systems, including a 3rd Dan in the Doce Pares system of Eskrima/Kali/Arnis. Finn has also trained in Jeet Kune Do, Pencak Silat, and various other styles, making him a well-rounded martial artist. Training with Paul Finn offers numerous benefits. His extensive knowledge and experience across multiple disciplines provide students with a comprehensive martial arts education. Finn's teaching approach emphasizes effective self-defense techniques, safe training practices, and personal growth. His classes not only focus on physical skills but also promote mental and spiritual well-being. Finn's 108 Wing Chun school in Bromley and Sidcup offers a range of classes, including Wing Chun, Silat, and Qi Gong. His expertise in Wing Chun is particularly noteworthy, with Sifu Rick Faye praising Finn's high-level understanding of the art. Additionally, Finn's connections to other affiliated schools worldwide provide students with opportunities to expand their training horizons. For those seeking a martial arts instructor with a rich background, proven expertise, and a holistic approach to training, Paul Finn is an excellent choice. His dedication to martial arts and commitment to student development make him a highly respected teacher in the London martial arts community. Come and try a class today .. what are you waiting for?

So it came to my attention today, looking online, as you do, at all the locally listed wing chun clubs in Bromley, Sidcup and Kent and the surrounding areas, that many of these clubs are run by instructors who are possibly in their 20s or most early 30s. It’s important to know that in order to adequately learn the wing chun system, even if you are fortunate enough to meet or locate a genuinely qualified instructor, would take the best part of 10 years or more certainly would require in my opinion approximately a decades knowledge before warranting the ability and acumen to teach. It is therefore laughable to read on some of these websites they suggestions regarding qualify. Many of these people are simply running a franchise for a national organisation and where the head instructors themselves have no access to Chinese or Hong Kong teachers that would have learnt the system. An example of this I spoke with somebody on the phone yesterday who is 64 years of age and who had himself trained with Chinese sifu in the mid 1980s in London Chinatown. This was the period of the wing chun wars when people would attend the local club and there would be challenge matches the often resulted in people sustaining serious injury and hospitalisation. Those days are thankfully long ago, however, the point is people like this and including myself I’ve been training in Wing chun for 30 or 40 years. Plus, we had the good luck, fortune and resourcefulness to train with those who truly knew the martial art. unfortunately, today many of the so-called experts and self promoted grandmasters are simply charlatans who have little or no background in Wang and have simply made up or copied their material from watching online videos in places like YouTube. Unfortunately, this type of behaviour, supported by the power and algorithms of social media such as Instagram and Facebook has promoted these self proclaimed experts, into the public domain where they have succeeded commercially despite the fact that they are not genuine and have no lineage, knowledge or understanding. It’s important to trace back and instructors for lineage and certification to see the origins from where the water flows, (look at the last article on this website for more information regarding this and our grandmaster Lee Shing). Hi myself had been training from the age of 17 until 24 when I went to Hong Kong and trained with both the sons of Mann. Up until that point I trained with various UK based Sifu many of them are now incredibly famous and even more so in the 1990s when wing chun exploded across the UK. However, it wasn’t until later years I was fortunate enough to meet with my current instructors and whom I’ve been with now for many many years, both Hong Kong Chinese and both are from the generation yip man. They know kung fu as it was said in the Hollywood movie the matrix, there really is a difference between the Mcdojo style of wing chun that we see on every street corner and the closed door Chinese cultural associations that have retained the secrets of this fascinating and deeply misunderstood martial art. Unfortunately, there is no way before the average individual to ascertain what is good and what is bad until they have had the opportunity to try other schools and systems. Indeed, at 108 we are proud that most of our students have already had a background with other wing Chun schools and they are testament to the complete difference in the way in which we teach, the knowledge available through myself and my teachers. So, do not be fooled by a glittering and shiny website that appears attractive and both all kinds of amazing opportunities but take a closer look, do some research making enquiries, look behind the scenes and avoid the paper tigers. #wingchun #martialarts #vungtsun #wingchung #bromley #sidcuo #london #kent #ipman #yipman