The late Ip Man (1893 -1972) wrote a code of conduct for Wing Chun to remind students that Wing Chun was about more than just fighting. Wing Chun should not be taken lightly and learning the destructive art should come with moral responsibility. Outlined below is the code of conduct wrote by Ip Man that can be seen on the wall of the V.T.A.A. in Hong Kong.
- 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.