Whether you're just looking to try something new, practice serious martial arts training, or something in between, I highly recommend Wing Chun MD aka Wing Chun Fist Art House led by Sifu Michael Speights. I just finished the 3-week training for new people and I plan to continue. As others have said here, SiFu Michael is the real deal. His teacher was trained by the now-famous Ip Man and teaching Wing Chun (a style of Kung Fu) is his passion. His relationship to this old form of Chinese martial arts is one of high integrity and isn't tainted by ego or machismo. He is dedicated to preserving and teaching wing chun (and does so in a way I think is culturally respectful). Perhaps more importantly, and as he states on the first day, he is dedicated to his students becoming better people and practicing kung fu, which classically refers to the dedication of patience and hard work towards mastering a skill. He will push you hard but never does so in a way I think is shaming. As he says repeatedly, "you start where you start." I'll also add that the training space he's built out out of his garage is beautifully and intentionally designed and inspires one to take the training seriously. Regardless of how much martial arts experience you have, everyone new to Wing Chun MD must take a 3-week training class which costs $87 for three 90-minute sessions per week. After the 3 weeks, you have the option to continue on as a monthly member for $150/month. The 3-week class is a combination of body conditioning, martial arts fundamentals, punching and kicking drills, and learning a wing chun form (a choreographed set of moves that gives you a sense of some of the fundamental concepts and moves that are the basis of wing chun.) The class is offered roughly every two months so you need to check the website to see when the next available time is. I'd say you need to be in reasonable physical shape as in have some regular exercise regimen. Either that or a hell of a lot of persistence. There's a memorable moment about halfway through the training where SiFu Mike asks us to hold a position that seems physically torturous and impossible. I could barely hold it for half a second and it was so painful I wanted to cry. He gave a super motivational speech about deciding to bear the hard things in order to grow and prepare ourselves for life's inherent challenges. After that speech, I could hold the position for 10 seconds. The next day, 20 seconds, and a week later, a full minute. For me, it was definitely a lesson in how terrified our minds and bodies are of pain and uncertainty, and how things are often not as bad as they initially seem if one has the resolve. For some people, that class alone could make the whole experience worthwhile. Finally a quick note about wing chun. In case you were like me and know nothing about it, the form is awkward and frankly quite ugly. Doesn't have the beauty of rounded arms and sweeping gestures like in tai chi. It's designed to deliver a lot of power efficiently, even from smaller bodies like mine. Give it a try! At the very least, you'll be in better physical shape after 3 weeks and you'll have the pride of seeing what's possible when you push your body beyond imagined limits. read more

I know I'm not the first to say I was introduced to Wing Chun Kung Fu through the Ip Man movies. The history of Wing Chun (created by a woman) and its philosophy (find ways to be more efficient against a bigger, faster, stronger opponent) intrigued me enough to look up who teaches Wing Chun in the DMV. I checked out Wing Chun, MD's website and was impressed to see helpful tips about how to select a martial arts class that was not an "all roads lead to Wing Chun MD" sell. During the Open Visit, I was able to observe a class that gave me a good idea of what to expect and questions were encouraged. Eager to experience more, I signed up for the Adult Tryout. It was tough but I survived and have been training here for about six months. To be blunt, training here is not easy (for anyone). Sifu Michael Speights uses a lot of traditional drills and exercises passed down from his Sifu and soon enough, you will question just how strong you are, both physically and mentally. But you will also be supported by Sifu Speights as well as by other members in your training and development. If you stick around long enough, the kwoon will seem like a second home and your fellow kwoon members can easily feel like a second family. My original intention in learning Wing Chun was to learn how to defend myself as a female. Not only am I learning some very practical lessons here but I am also learning to appreciate fighting as an art and the sacrifice of those who continue this art (check out the lineage tab on the website, very humbling). Sifu Speights is the right type of individual to be continuing this art and it has been apparent during my time here that character counts (both his and that of his students). Kung fu training can seem like an inconvenience in this fast-paced world but for the teens/adults who decide to commit to training at Wing Chun, MD they will be engaging in a very unique privilege. If you're not afraid of hard work and personal growth, this might be the place for you. read more

Wing Chun MD was my first experience with formal martial arts training, and I'm very pleased with the results so far. I signed up for the 3-week basic training cycle, and plan on exercising the option to become a full member following completion of the program. I recently separated from the US Army and had been itching for a way to match the routine discipline and physical conditioning that I was accustomed to. Learning Wing Chun with Sifu has been rewarding and has more than satisfied that itch. I've learned that kung fu translates roughly to "skill" and can be practiced anywhere and everywhere. Learning about building yourself up in Wing Chun from the ground up by focusing on a few principles is something that you'll be able to apply to your everyday life. It's helped me think about everyday things practically and apply some of the principles to my engineering career. It is far from easy, and that will be communicated to you very early on. While Sifu will push you to your limits in training, he is very approachable and generous with sharing his knowledge. None of my questions have been met with criticism. I'm still very early-on in the process, but I have learned that it is meant to be a slow, progression and will require hard work and commitment on my part. I highly recommend reaching out to the organization if you want to work hard and commit to becoming a better person. Your reasons for starting, excluding malicious reasons, do not matter here. Whether you watched some movies or want to learn to fight or whatever; I suggest you make an appointment and see what Wing Chun MD is about. Your motivations and understanding of the process will change after you give it try and start to learn. I think you'll see that the process is humbling, and the more you learn about it, the more you'll come to discard any preconceptions you have about martial arts, and learn something that is truly rewarding. read more

I was looking to join a martial arts program and found Wing Chun MD. Their website was very informative, and I appreciated the option to try a 3-week Basic Training Cycle program before committing to a membership. I had no prior martial arts experience, and my exercise was limited to high school softball (over 10 years ago), so I wasn't in the best shape. But I'm on a journey of self-growth, and this program felt like the perfect way to challenge myself. The training was tough but incredibly rewarding, both mentally and physically. I learned how to push through mental barriers, improve my fitness, and practice self-defense. While three weeks isn't enough to go in-depth with Wing Chun, it gave me a clear understanding of what the discipline requires. Whenever I had questions, Sifu was quick to respond and make sure I had all the information I needed. Sifu and his team were incredibly supportive, recognizing that everyone is at different levels. I really appreciated how each member took the time to teach and made the challenges more tolerable. They were empathetic and understood what we were going through because they had been in our shoes. They consistently pushed us to do our best, and I'm truly grateful for their encouragement. I'd highly recommend the Basic Training Cycle to anyone who enjoys a challenge and is ready to push themselves mentally and physically. It's a great way to grow and see what you're capable of! read more

I have tried quite a few martial arts schools in the area and in my opinion Sifu Speights is an exceptional teacher, which is truly rare to find. He has the right mindset and solid base that a martial arts instructor should have, and understands the true value and benefit of martial arts training. It is really impressive how committed Sifu Speights is to investing in his students, and he expects the same level of commitment in return to ensure genuine progress. Equally impressive is how committed he is to maintaining his own integrity and the integrity of this fighting style. He has a real depth of understanding about wing chun, and his emphasis on real world applications is another hallmark of a great school. Wing chun itself is a highly dynamic, explosive, and intellectual fighting style that requires a real commitment of heart, interest, dedication, and continued analysis. Half-hearted students need not apply. When done correctly, it is highly efficient and can be devastatingly effective. I would highly recommend this school for anyone interested in this fighting style and who are willing to make the investment of effort. The real gift of finding an exceptional teacher cannot be understated and can make all the difference in your martial arts training. read more

If you're looking to learn the art of Wing Chun then look no further. Mike's ability to explain how the details and principles of Wing Chun can be used in a "real" situation is second to none. When I first started training Wing Chun under Sifu Alan Che Kong Lee, Mike was the most senior student. In class, 95% of the instructions came from Mike while Sifu walked around fine tuning and chiming in from time to time. Luckily I have never been under attack but since I started training there was one incident where I was at a bar breaking up a scuffle that my friend was in. Well, not to go into detail about that but it was one of the few moments that I felt my training kicked in. Thankfully we broke up the fight, no one was hurt and large part of that has to do with what I learned from Mike. While training Wing Chun I've done quite a bit of research about other Martial Arts, MMA and self defense disciplines. I've learned that It's not about which martial art is the best but how you train and study that art. There are many great martial arts out there, but unfortunately there are not that many good teachers. Mike is a class A instructor and makes Wing Chun a life changing experience. read more

There's a lot of talk about "mental toughness" these days, and if that's something you're interested in, then I can tell you: 75 Hard has nothing on the Wing Chun Basic Training Cycle. It offers 10 classes in 3 weeks, and it's both physically and mentally intensive - it may be for Wing Chun beginners, but it's far from easy! I became aware of how much my mind interferes to prevent me from achieving my best performance. As soon as an exercise begins to burn, or I start to feel weak or unsteady, I have a strong urge to quit and rest. The teacher encouraged us to push past that artificial mental limitation and find our actual, physical limitations - and then improve them. It was fascinating to observe my own mental process of psyching myself out - telling myself "I can't do it" even when I knew I could - and then practice overcoming it. That's a lesson I'm going to take into all parts of my life going forward. Woven through the class are lessons on the history and culture of Wing Chun, as well as practical advice for real-world violent situations. I would definitely recommend this class for anyone who's interested in martial arts for self defense and/or for self improvement. read more

I recently joined this martial arts class, and I have been blown away by the quality of the instruction and the strength of the community here. Sifu is incredibly dedicated to his craft, and it shows in his teaching. His lineage is very direct, with his sifu's sifu being none other than Ip Man. He takes a critical, well-rounded approach that emphasizes practical and efficient techniques that don't solely rely on big body size or muscle. The community here is fantastic. Everyone is welcoming and supportive, and I've made some great friends. I appreciate the fact that the class offers unlimited practice for all memberships, which has been a huge help in my progress. I have seen a significant improvement in my skills since I started. Overall, I would highly recommend this martial arts class to anyone looking for a supportive community, a knowledgeable and dedicated instructor, and a practical and effective approach to training. The class is suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners. If you're looking for a great martial arts school, this is definitely the place to be! read more

Initially, I was looking to train in Wing Chun in the Columbia Area (Maryland) but WingChunMD ended up being the closest place for me to train. Due to this being new to me, I asked to observe one of the classes (you can make an appointment or go to any one of the Thursday night classes). What stood out to me the most on my first visit as well as when I properly joined the class was that all the members were training the same way regardless of the level they were at and were helping each other train. There is no hierarchy or belt system here. You just come here to train and try to make the best version of yourself. As others have mentioned before I am sure, training is not easy and as soon as Sifu realizes that you are improving he will introduce something new so that you constantly challenge yourself. Throughout all his lessons, he gives tips on what your mindset should be in a fight and how you should guard yourself so as not to hurt yourself in a fight. Definitely check this place out if you are in the Silver Spring area. You won't know what Wing Chun has to offer until you try it out. read more

Even though I have always been interested in martial arts, I have never really taken a martial class before. I am naturally uncoordinated and not a very athletic person, so the thought of martial art training is a little intimidating to me. A friend, who has tried quite a few martial art schools in the area, told me about this school and the 10 day tryout program. I am very glad that I made the decision to join the tryout program. It was a great opportunity to see whether the school and style are right for me without any pressure or commitment. I was impressed with Sifu Speights' deep understanding of Wing Chun and his passion for passing the knowledge on to his students. Classes are challenging both physically and mentally. I was constantly being pushed to my limits and beyond, but it felt amazing afterwards to know that I survived it all and was looking forward to do it all over again. My membership starts at the end of this month and I look forward to starting my lifelong journey with Wing Chun and becoming the better version of me. read more

Constant forward pressure.... One of the many principles of Wing Chun I've incorporated into my everyday life. I LOVE Wing Chun training. Its challenging, rewarding, and it encourages hard work as well as critical thinking-- which I appreciate as an artist. It's full of techniques that are both Offensive and Defensive in nature. Even the Punches! I dig that. And the art places a lot of emphasis on simplicity and efficiency over power and speed, which is important since we are taught to always assume we are the weaker, slower, less talented opponent. For many of us, that's the case. Also, it doesn't hurt that Bruce Lee was a Wing Chun practitioner. So if you're a tenacious person interested in self improvement, and self defense methods that will teach you to attack and defend against the bigger, stronger, and faster opponent in the most efficient way possible, check this out. read more

Hi, I am training at Wing Chun MD and I really enjoy it, Sifu Michael is a very good teacher who really cares about the fundamentals of the Wing Chun style and make sure that each students does it correctly and properly not to cheat yourself or the style. Each class is two hours, the schedule is great, you can attend mornings and/or evening classes and hang out for longer training after classes if your desire or if your daily schedule permit you. Due to my work I only can attend two classes per week at the moment but I'm hoping to be able to attend more, but also very important to practice at home what you've been taught in each class as often as you can. Practice, practice, practice and feel the strength growing in you. I'm 49 years old and this is my journey. Thank you Sifu Michael for this opportunity. Christophe. read more

As a long time practitioner of martial arts I have had the displeasure of seeing many traditional arts taught where it was clear that the art was only moderately understood by the instructor. Wing chun because of its popularity has had it share of good practitioners, good teachers but rarely both. As a fellow southern king fu practitioner it is refreshing to run into another with a clear and complete understanding of his art. My instructor Sifu Ralph Mitchell was one of the select few who have been able to maintain the tradition southern kungfu but also demonstrate its effectiveness as a fighting art. My Kung Fu brother Mike Speights is on that same path, has the lineage, and the practical understanding of his art to be able to use it. He is also an excellent instructor. He is one of the rare ones. Check him out read more

I started my Wing Chun journey in 2010 with Sifu Allan Lee where I met SiHing Mike Speights. At that time, Mike has already studied with Sifu for over a decade. Mike has deep insights in fighting and in Wing Chun Kung Fu. Mike has always been a great "older brother" and was happy to share his knowledge. Furthermore, Mike has the attributes of great teacher - well-spoken, patience, passion, articulation of ideas, etc. The recent Wing Chun seminar, hosted by Mike at Wing Chun NYC, was no disappointment. There was a wealth of information and a good balance of both mental and physical activities to challenge everyone and at every skill level. Though this 1-1/2 day seminar ended Sunday afternoon, a brighter light has been shone on the path and thus our journey can carry further on. Thank you very much Mike! read more

I am a new member of Wing Chun MD and just completed the 3-week introductory boot camp. Every class has been great. Some classes were so physically demanding (in a good way) that I felt it for days and some classes were so mentally demanding (in a good way) that I'm still thinking about them. Sifu Michael Speights is an excellent teacher with real-world know-how to which his Wing Chun Kung Fu is applied. The students at Wing Chun MD are a good and diverse group of people (different ages, genders, athletic ability, etc.); everyone I worked out with committed to improve in the limited time we've been there so far. We all learned skills and performed feats none of us believed we could do before we proved to ourselves we could. I can't wait to learn more. read more

This class challenges you both physically and mentally, but is a great and rewarding experience. I've taken a few martial art classes before and this class should define what a martial arts class is. It's not just learning forms and going through the motions. You actually learn techniques and how they apply to real life situations either by sparring or with demonstrations. Some of the key concepts of Wing Chun are efficiency in movements and always thinking that your opponent will be bigger, faster, and stronger. There is no relying on strength or power. As a woman, these concepts are crucial and I know that I will be able to hold my own if the need arises. Once you really get into it, Wing Chun will sneak into aspects of your everyday lives. read more

Our synchronized figure skating team set up a session with Michael and his colleagues to help them understand the basic principles of Wing Chun, some core movements, and how we could apply the philosophy of Kung Fu to their training. It was an excellent session and the skaters came away with a very helpful foundation. We especially appreciated the effort Michael took before the session to understand our sport, communicate with our coaches, and think about ways that his work and experiences could be helpful in our specific efforts. We definitely plan to bring our skaters back to Michael and Wing Chun MD as their training progresses. Thanks! read more

I was skeptical at first but Sifu Speights allowed me to watch his class to get a perspective on what it would be like to attend. I was instantly amazed at the preparation and various techniques that were being taught. Sifu Speight's attention to detail helps each and every individual student find their own Wing Chun style. His humility is on a level by itself and I feel confident that he can take me as far as my individual effort will go. There was no pressure from him to join immediately. He simply told my father and I to take our time on deciding if this class was right for us. I can't wait to get started! read more

I have trained in various martial arts throughout my life, and was thoroughly impressed by my classes at Wing Chun MD. Sifu Michael is an excellent teacher. He has a deep knowledge of Wing Chun, and his lineage of teachers is very impressive (only once removed from Ip Man). Sifu Michael appreciates the mental and spiritual aspects of Wing Chun, but also has a very grounded and practical understanding that this is a martial art, i.e., it is designed to make you an excellent fighter in the real world. The facilities are also excellent. I highly recommend Wing Chun MD if you are interested in learning Wing Chun. read more