Having a background in multiple martial arts and being exposed to various instructors, I can confidently say that Sifu Desiree is the best martial arts instructor I’ve ever had. She is incredibly attentive to her students, taking the time to work with each individual to ensure they fully understand each concept and perfect every technique. Unlike other martial arts schools where the instructor demonstrates a technique once or twice and then delegates the teaching to assistants, Sifu Desiree personally ensures that each student is executing the technique correctly.
Before meeting Sifu Desiree, I had some experience with Wing Chun and had been practicing it for a while. However, after just a few sessions with her, I quickly realized the flaws in what I had previously learned. Now, after a few months of training, Sifu Desiree has opened my eyes to identifying the flaws in other schools’ techniques and how they can be perfected. With over 30 years of Wing Chun experience, Sifu Desiree has a remarkable ability to explain concepts clearly and identify incorrect techniques, offering multiple real-life scenarios to illustrate proper application. She also shares notes and practices from Grandmaster Gary Lam, ensuring that students receive authentic and comprehensive instruction.
For those with a background in Wing Chun, I can assure you that you will fall in love with this class after just a few sessions. I’ve researched many Wing Chun schools and instructors, and this class offers the most direct and true lineage from Grandmaster Ip Man. Sifu Desiree is fourth in lineage from Grandmaster Ip Man and teaches the methods of Grandmaster Gary Lam and Grandmaster Wong Shun-Leung—one of Ip Man’s top students and Bruce Lee’s teacher.
For those new to Wing Chun or martial arts in general, and looking for an effective self-defense class, I can confidently say that Wing Chun is one of the best hand-to-hand combat systems for real-life situations. It is especially effective in close and tight spaces, such as an elevator or when backed into a corner, and teaches you how to defend yourself and your loved ones. Sifu Desiree incorporates real-life street combat scenarios, providing practical skills that can be applied in everyday situations. Wing Chun is great for both men and women, particularly because it teaches you how to defend against stronger opponents without relying on brute strength. Unlike karate or boxing, where you need to match your opponent’s strength, Wing Chun teaches you to use your opponent’s force against them.
Lastly, I want to highlight the welcoming and supportive environment of Sifu Desiree’s class. Both Sifu Desiree and her husband, Randy (who is also an assistant instructor), are incredibly talented and create a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. In my experience with other martial arts schools, I’ve never felt a sense of belonging as much as I have in Sifu Desiree’s class. The respect and camaraderie among students are exceptional, and everyone is made to feel welcome.
I highly recommend this class to people of all ages. Whether you’re an experienced martial artist or a complete beginner, you will find immense value and personal growth here. Give it a chance—you...
Read moreGary Lam Wing Chun Southern California has been my sanctuary the past half year. For several years I had been searching for an adequate school that teaches Wing Chun in an accepting community that remained true to the lineage. No school or training facility felt right until I discovered GLWCSC and Sifu Desiree.
Sifu Desiree brings over 30 years of experience, knowledge, and wisdom concerning not only Wing Chun but self defense, street-smarts, and all around safety awareness. Meeting three times a week, every class feels like a mini mastermind in all things self-defense and martial arts. What I love most is that no two classes have been the same and every time I leave with more tools for protecting myself and others under my belt. Classes not only review previous material to practice and improve, but also introduce new concepts and techniques to expand our repository of this art.
This is not just a martial arts class. This is a full education in a holistic philosophy of life, how to lead others with conviction, and how be a responsible individual in today's increasingly dangerous society. Every person I have spoken to that has enrolled in classes with Sifu Desiree and Gary Lam Wing Chun Southern California have unequivocally agreed that these classes have made them grown as individuals and as martial artists. If you have been searching for a martial art that is practical, designed for everyday people, and will aid you when the going gets tough, this is your sign to reach out and contact Sifu Desiree to get...
Read moreI’ve been attending Wing Chun classes with Sifu Desiree for about 5 months, and I couldn’t be more impressed with the experience. Sifu Desiree’s teaching style is incredibly clear, patient, and methodical. She breaks down complex movements into manageable steps and always explains the why behind each technique. It’s not just about learning forms; it’s about understanding how to apply them in real-life situations.
What really stands out is the emphasis on practical application. From day one, we’re encouraged to test techniques in dynamic drills, which really builds confidence and a deeper understanding of the system. It’s refreshing to train in a style that’s both traditional and highly functional.
The classmates are just as great—everyone’s supportive, respectful, and eager to help each other grow. There’s a genuine sense of community here that makes every class something to look forward to.
If you’re looking to learn Wing Chun in a way that’s approachable, effective, and grounded in real-world application, I highly recommend checking out this school. Sifu Desiree is...
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