The Philip Nearing School of Wing Chun

I like the teaching style and knowledge, the instructors have great patience and are available and always willing to help their students. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming. Definitely recommend this school.

I have been in the space of martial arts on and off for about two decades. This class is one of the best classes I ever had. Sifu Nearing is very experienced in both practice and teaching of Wing Chun.

My long time passion to learn Wing Chun lead me to join The Philip Nearing School of Wing Chun in Chicago. I would rate it as one of my best decisions in the last few years. Sifu Nearing is very kind and experienced in the field of martial arts. His passion for the art is very motivating and I would definately recommend this school to anyone who wants to start learning Wing Chun.

At the beginning of 2022, I decided to pursue my interest in Wing Chun and researched schools in Chicago. Upon meeting Sifu Nearing, I knew I had found my teacher and have been taking private lessons from him since. He is a fantastic teacher; patient, kind, and caring, exceptionally intelligent, an excellent communicator, and, of course, extremely experienced and knowledgeable in Wing Chun. Although a total badass, he’s not led by the ego that some teachers from other schools seem to carry with them. He’s truly passionate about Wing Chun and his students’ training. Plus, he has a great sense of humor which I really appreciate. If you’re interested in learning Wing Chun, I highly recommend the Philip Nearing School of Wing Chun for your training!

I'm a current student of Sifu Nearing. I am also a current MMA/Northern Shaolin 7 Star Praying Mantis Kung Fu Sifu. I decided to start training with Sifu Phil to learn new things and keep my current skills sharp. I have been a Wing Chun/JKD practioner since I was 14. I really enjoy Wing Chun and after searching for a teacher Sifu Izzo's videos steered me towards Phil Nearing. I can say with confidence Sifu is a really cool down to Earth Chicago guy. I’ve had the privilege of training at many schools over the years, but few have offered the depth, authenticity, and community atmosphere I found at the Philip Nearing School of Wing Chun. Lineage & Leadership Led by Philip Nearing, a dedicated practitioner of the art who began his Wing Chun journey in 1983 and opened his own academy in 1989, the school is firmly rooted in the lineage of GrandMaster Yip Man via Samuel Kwok. What this means is you’re not just learning punches and blocks — you’re engaging with a tradition, a system built for real-world effectiveness, clarity, and lasting growth. Training with Purpose From the moment you step into the class, it’s evident that this is about more than showy moves or gimmicks. The focus is on practical self-defense, precise technique, thoughtful application, and disciplined practice. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned martial artist, the instructors meet you at your level and push you toward meaningful improvement. Supportive Community What stands out to me most is the culture — respectful, focused, yet welcoming. The academy fosters growth not just in skills but in character. Students support each other, challenge each other, and in doing so, create a strong community. The environment is serious enough to foster real skill, and warm enough to make coming back something you look forward to. Location & Accessibility The school’s newer facility at 2643 W Chicago Ave offers a clean, professional space for training. It's also convenient to reach, well-maintained, and clearly set up with the student in mind. Final Thoughts If you’re seeking a martial arts school in Chicago that blends authenticity with accessibility, tradition with practicality, and discipline with a supportive community, this is it. The Philip Nearing School of Wing Chun is more than just a class — it’s a path of personal growth, martial skill, and camaraderie. Highly recommended. Don is great, Paul is great, Nate, Lena, Sifu Sharon and anyone else who's name I can't recall off the top of my head. #wingchun #sifujasonlee #philipnearing