A welcoming and friendly environment. Inclusive to beginners & advanced levels. Kids & adults.

I am constantly blown away at the community that has developed at Shaolin Do of Austin! The Masters have gone out of their way to provide a wide array of online classes so that we can all continue to learn our Kung Fu and Tai Chi, and I know that they have more in the works. If you are looking for a place to learn martial arts, get in shape, or just meet some amazing people then this is the spot for you! read more

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I've been taking private lessons with Master Sheryl now for about 10 months. I started when I was 72 because of having some falls and instability on my feet. The practice is a subtle one, but the benefits have been rather dramatic. My posture and stability have improved markedly, as has my self-confidence. I have done many mindful practices over the years, but this has been the most beneficial overall. I can't recommend this excellent studio and its teachers and classes highly enough. read more

My 7 year old daughter is just starting Kung Fu, but I have so far been very impressed with North Austin Kung Fu and am very glad to have found them. I do not have any previous experience in martial arts. So, when my daughter expressed interest in "karate", I spent more time than I would like to admit trying to learn about all the different styles of martial arts, different schools, etc. I found the process quite confusing and very difficult to evaluate. North Austin Kung Fu was not actually the first school that we tried. We first tried another well-reviewed, central austin location. However, I very quickly started getting a bad feeling that this other place was more of a profit-generating center than it was a school. Among other red flags, we happened to go on a testing day and I noticed that students ranging from white to blue belt were all taking the exact same "test" which basically included repeating the instructor's movements back to them (an experience they each pay an extra $75 for). As an observer, I could not see any difference in skill between the highest and lowest belts and could not for the life of me imaging what they were being tested for. None of this made any sense to me and didn't instill confidence in the quality of instruction. As luck would have it - I also happened to visit North Austin Kung Fu on a testing day later that same week. Instead of a 'repeat after me' exercise, I saw students individually proving to instructors (from memory) that they knew the material they had learned. The testing I saw here appeared very 'earned' whereas the first location felt 'bought and paid for'. I immediately felt better about North Austin Kung Fu. I also found their student handbook online and appreciated the transparency of their operation. The class my daughter attends has about 15 kids and amazingly has about 5 instructors. Students participate in certain exercises together and then break up into smaller groups that are generally organized by belt rank. At that point, each student practices their material as the instructor(s) supervises and takes turns giving personalized instruction to each student, individually. The teaching and the practice that I see happening here is much more intentional and focused than what I saw at the other school. When my daughter finished her first class she ran over to me and yelled "Daddy, I really like this place!". Apparently, even my 7 year old daughter is able to appreciate the difference in what she learned here versus the first place she tried. Anyway - we are still early in our Kung Fu journey, but so far we are very happy to have found North Austin Kung Fu. read more

I have taken classes here since 1999. The owners are terrific people who provide a great variety of material for both Kung Fu and Tai Chi. My sons and husband also take classes here. It is an encouraging environment where all are welcome. My sons are stronger and more confident since they have started classes. My teenager will test for black belt soon and he is very proud of his accomplishment. I highly recommend joining this school. read more

Austin Kung Fu & Tai Chi - Tai Chi Near Me - Austin, Texas

Whether you're interested in exploring martial arts, getting into shape, pushing your limits or just DOING something different, this is the place to go. About a month ago, I decided that I really wanted to start talking some sort of martial art class. I had absolutely no prior experience, but as a runner getting bored of the same routine, I knew I wanted to dive into something active and rewarding. As a girl, I also really wanted to learn some self defense. At first, I was quite intimidated; most of the reviews on Yelp were from black belts who had been attending Shaolin-do for several years. I wondered what the environment would be like for a noob like me... Let me tell you, I already feel like I'm part of a family. A kick-ass Kung Fu family. The people are so welcoming and the instructors genuinely care about their practice to the core. It's addictive. I love that classes incorporate group activities so you can train with more experienced belts, but also that the main focus is on your own individual practice. At Shaolin-do, you move at your own speed and do what you can, but it's encouraged to push yourself. It's a great place for self-exploration and improvement. I'm still just a white belt, but I can already tell that I've gained so much by going to Shaolin-do. I haven't had the pleasure of many classes with Master Joe, but just by the few conversations we've had and my own spectating, I can tell he's a genius. Just read some of his philosophies on the website; his knowledge and expertise is apparent. Most of my training has been through Sifu Corey during the Tuesday night class. I know it sounds cliche, but he's changed my life. He is incredibly dedicated and a wonderful teacher. Even though I'm just a white belt, he takes the time to show every technique carefully and explain the practical, self-defense application. He is also a great motivational speaker and a kick-ass trainer. Phew, his classes are INTENSE. I already feel stronger though, just after a few weeks, and it's awesome. There are also many classes available, which is nice because it fits my schedule, and since you pay monthly, you can go as much as you want. And the price is excellent, especially considering the degree of attention you receive and the quality of the classes. Geez, I'm just rambling on with compliments, but I really love this place. Don't be shy. Go. You won't regret it! read more

I was 51 years old, I was having a very hard time recovering from an appendectomy followed by a massive post operative infection. I had just found out I had diabetes. Oh, yeah, I was pretty severely depressed too. I had been sitting at a computer for the last 30 years and was not in good shape before I got sick. I was fat, over fifty, sick, and tired. So, of course I decided to take up a martial art. :-) A former employee of mine was a student at Master Joe's school and he assured me that it was a school where I would not only be tolerated, but I would be welcomed and supported. He was right. Of course, I asked my Dr. about it before I started. It was his opinion that it probably wouldn't kill me, but that if it did it was my own damn fault. :-) My first instructor, a wonderful, humble, brilliant instructor named Cory started the class by telling us that we were in a no shame zone. We were only expected to do what we could do, nothing more, but nothing less. It took me several months before I could make it through an entire class without having to sit on the sidelines for large parts of the class while I caught my breath. I was so proud when I managed to stay standing through a full class. Then I realized that just meant I could work harder. And I did. I did not advance through the ranks as fast as other students. But, I advanced much faster than I ever expected I could. One day I realized that I had just done 20 frog leaps and I was as happy as a kid with a new balloon. After a few years I was doing things in my mid '50s that I couldn't do when I was a teenager. I never experienced any bullying or any pressure, there are always a few jerks in the lower belt classes but they don't last. This is the most peaceful, loving supportive group of people I have ever met. Even the tournaments have competitions for people who do not want to have to spar. But, after a while, you will spar. Not because you are forced to, but because you enjoy sparring with people whose goal is to learn and help you learn, not to beat you up. It is quite a sight to see a room full of people smiling at each other, and often laughing at their own mistakes, while sparring. You don't see that at other martial arts schools. If you are looking for a place to learn. To become more healthy. To gain practical self defense skills. And, maybe a little or a lot more. You owe it to yourself to visit Master Joe's Shaolin-Do school. Oops, all most forgot. They have a program from pre-K kids that is just amazing. The kids learn physically, but they also learn that they only get what they earn. And, they only earn by working. Not to mention they have a great deal of fun. :-) read more

I've been taking classes from here for about a year now and I love it. I find the Sifus (instructors) very knowledgeable in the art. As a girl I was nervous about taking classes but found everyone very friendly and was impressed to see how many women are in the upper black belt classes. You don't have to be super athletic to start taking classes but they are challenging. If you can't make it through the whole class or need to take a water break know one makes you feel bad. I've left class drenched in sweat but feeling much better than when I came in. I appreciate when practicing your kicks and punches they will try to pair girls with girls or least someone the same strength as you. The self defense you learn here is easily applied if need be in a real life situation. I've never felt that I've received inferior training because I'm girl. It's really up to the individual on what you take way from the classes. After year I'm more confident, flexible, stronger, and loving how toned my legs look now. I've done the whole personal trainer thing at those large mainstream gyms and found this to be way more satisfying. Who wants to run on a treadmill when you can learn a beautiful art form while getting a great workout. I recommend this place to everyone who wants to be challenged and try something different. read more

First of all, a comment about the listing for Shaolin-Do. Why does it say the neighborhood is "downtown"? Is that a weird Yelp thing, or something? Because north Burnet Road at Rutland is not downtown. Anywho... moving on. Our family loves Shaolin-Do. My oldest son has been taking Kung Fu here for the past 3 1/2 years. He started when he was only 4 years old, and is now a junior black belt. Now my youngest son has started lessons, too, and he's having as much fun as his big brother. Master Joe and all his instructors are amazing with the little kids. They are patient, kind, and understanding, but also good teachers who don't let the kids get away with s***. If the kids don't do what you're supposed to be doing, they hear about it. And they have to EARN their next belt, with hard work and dedication. Nobody gets to pass to the next level without putting in the work. Isn't that a refreshing concept for kids these days? If you're considering signing up your kids for Kung Fu, do it here. One other thing we really like about this school is the de-emphasis on fighting. It's not about how tough you are or how much ass you can kick. It's about self-discipline, doing your best, learning new skills, and becoming a better person. Shaolin-Do is an excellent Kung Fu school for the little ones. Everyone we've referred to the school has loved it, too, and we're recruiting new students all the time with our enthusiasm for Master Joe and his group of instructors. read more

I've been a student at Shaolin Do Kung Fu/Tai Chi for about 6 months and absolutely love it. Master Joe started this school while he was in graduate school at UT, and he eventually got his PhD in Neurobiology, but decided to devote his life to teaching martial arts. He's a great instructor and the classes he teaches are extraordinary. This school is part of the national Shaolin Do association (www.shaolin-do.com) which has gobs of schools around the country. All the forms and such are inherited from grandmaster Sin The, who learned them from someone old and wise who learned them from someone old and wise, etc. One of the most exciting things is the grandmaster's visits every 6 months, as there will be a tournament for all the local shaolin do schools and the grandmaster will teach out some new (to us) material. One of the other unique things about this school is that it offers several classes every day of the week, and for the cost of enrollment or whatever you can go to as many classes as you want each week. So I'm able to go to 6-7 classes per week and that's going to just about a third of the classes that are offered. Also, the school has a huge black belt community, and over half the students of the school are actually first degree black belt or above, and watching the advanced classes can be quite inspiring. The instructors are of course very helpful and supportive, and there is really something there for everyone - be it the Friday evening super intense conditioning classes or the much more laid back Saturday afternoon review classes. read more

I second what's been written in all of the other reviews. About 8 or 9 years ago, we'd enrolled my son in a preschool Kung Fu class at another school. We wound up having a bad experience in the long run, due to contracts and $$ being more important than the needs of the student. So, my husband and I were cautious about signing my son up again and risking the same thing. Over the years I'd heard great things about this school. But we were concerned -- you know, once burned, twice shy. Recently, though, we saw an ad that made us willing to give it a try -- the school had a moving special: 1 month, no contract. (And they've since gone to all month-to-month contracts, which I really think is better for them in the long run.) My son is now a teenager and, as such, he's in the adult classes. This has been a great experience for him. He has three sifus (teachers), since he attends different four classes during the week. They are all wonderful. The classes are mixed-level, which actually works really well. They're small enough that each student still gets some individualized attention. The sifus get to know the students and make sure they are working at their own pace. There is no pressure to advance or to sign up for additional (costly) classes. The focus is on learning the skills and everything the student needs to learn is taught in the regular classes. It is very definitely a mom-and-pop-type place, in every positive sense of the term. Master Joe and his wife, Sifu Cheryl own it, and they are regularly there with their kids. (Their daughter, also a teenager, is a black belt herself, I believe.) Master Joe is *very* knowledgeable of the art, and he's very personable as well. Both he and his wife (and the rest of the staff, too) are quite down to earth. And, as an aside, I just want to add that the art of Shaolin-do is beautiful to watch. It looks like highly choreographed, athletic dance (with weapons ;) ). While I don't do it myself, I love watching it. In retrospect, my only regret is that we didn't sign him up sooner. read more

I found Shaolin-Do and Tai Chi one Saturday in early July 2013 to try out a Tai Chi class. Master Joe and Master Sheryl were at the north gym that day as was one of their kids....truly a family owned and operated business. Though a 7th level black belt and, Master Joe was very approachable, very supportive. There was no pressure to join and with no membership fee - pay as you go. I also appreciate that Tai Chi and Kung Fu are taught individually but are highly interdependent and synergistic. Practicing one improves the other. Since July, i've become a Kung Fu student and am a big enthusiast of the Shaolin-Do in Austin. One of the aspects of this school that I appreciate is how friendly and supportive not only all of the instructors, but fellow students have been during my time in the program. For the first time, i've found a physical activity that I look forward to and can practice on my own while traveling. 12 lbs lighter and in better shape than i have been in years, I am looking forward to continued progression within the program. For those with kids, this is a very friendly supportive kid friendly environment. I look forward to participating in the program with one or both of my kids in the future. With two schools - one north close to Domain and one south close to the airport - each with classes practically every day of the week. Even kids and adults with very busy travel schedules can find the time to attend. read more

My son wanted to get into some form of martial arts and we had no experience with any particular schools or methods in Austin. My wife and I parent very conscientiously and had our children in an alternative-approach school. Knowing our philosophy, a friend said that Austin Shaolin-Do was the only place we'd be happy. A neighbor's child had also gone there and had loved it so we gave it a try. The first month was free (another place had made us buy a $35 gi just to try out a single class!) and once we signed up I felt the prices are quite reasonable. Big plus: you don't have to buy hundreds of dollars of weapons right up front before you even know if you're going to stick with it (unlike many other schools, mind you). My son dove in and really never looked back. After about six weeks of watching him, I decided to jump in myself. The atmosphere that owner Master Joe has created welcomes folks of all skill levels and interests so, even though I've always thought of myself as a pretty uncoordinated guy, I felt safe to dip my toe in. Much to my surprise, I found I really liked it. I got stronger, lost weight, gained flexibility and noticed that middle-age aches and pains just disappeared. Three years later, I even tested to black belt right beside my son. It was truly a life moment and something I am proud of. I now equate learning anything with becoming a black belt--just break it all down into bite-size pieces and you can learn to do anything! If you really want to learn how to fight, that's there for you. If, like me, you're just really interested in keeping fit and challenging yourself mentally, physically and even spiritually, that's available to you, too. There are people of all ages, many females, techies, fitness gurus, you name it. Master Joe brought this form of martial arts to Texas in the mid-90's and all the Shaolin-Do schools in this area are run by folks who continue to study under him. His skills are top-notch but he also works hard to make studying the martial arts an experience which empowers the student in many, many ways. He has special seminars on everything from kicking techniques to meditation and breathing. Whenever we've had a concern or issue, he has been forthcoming and proactive. The other teachers have been respectful, capable, positive and supportive. I'm so glad my son has had the experience and I think that it will benefit him for his entire life. I'm just as grateful to have had the experience as well--sure wish I'd done it at 13 instead of 37, though! read more

What can I say? I've been going here for about a year and a half now and I can't imagine anything that could get me to stop. It's a mental and physical challenge for people of all shapes and sizes, not to mention a lot of fun. The teachers here are knowledgeable and patient and will help you to progress without ever making you feel pressured to try new things you aren't comfortable with yet. The school attracts a very diverse set of students of all ages, male and female, etc... but you will find everyone is friendly and always ready to help out when you're trying to master that awesome move. If you're thinking "I want to do martial arts, but I'm not in shape..." or "I'm not flexible enough", I strongly urge you to overcome that fear and just get out there and give it a shot (they are very flexible with letting you try it out). I had that mindset for years and I regret not having started sooner. Start coming to class and give it your all and next thing you know, you will be in shape and you will be that flexible! Kids Class: I've watched the kids class plenty of times and I see unruly, easily distracted kids change as they spend weeks in kung fu... they become more disciplined and really seem to enjoy learning the art. If I ever have kids, they will definitely be enrolling here! read more

I've been a student at Shaolin Do Kung Fu for almost 9 years now, and I couldn't imagine a better place to be. The sheer number of people who've stayed with it for as long, or longer than I have is testament to the excellence of this school. Whatever you need, or want, it's here for you. The art itself is beautiful and inspiring - whenever I'm doing the forms, I feel like a stronger, faster, more graceful me. The community of the school is also great. Students tend to take after their teacher, and Master Joe and Sifu Sheryl are the best teachers anyone could ask for. They challenge you, but also provide an incredibly supportive environment. They are there to encourage their students, not embarrass them. As a result, the students themselves also adopt this supportive attitude. My friends at Shaolin Do are my second family, and everyone is always welcome. ^_^ They also have an EXCELLENT kids' program. I, in fact, started out in the kids' program, and I can guarantee that growing up with Shaolin helped me become a much healthier adult than I would have been otherwise, both physically and mentally. In general, the classes are at convenient times, offered multiple times a week, and the rate is probably the best deal you'll find in Austin. The school is large and clean, the community is welcoming, and this is a chance to really start something that will change your life. We have students from all ages and in all physical conditions. This place is truly for EVERYONE. ***** NOTE: this is no longer the address for the school. They have moved about one mile down the road, to 2136 Rutland Drive Suite D-1, Austin,TX 78758. read more

I feel alive with Kung Fu!!! I love the classes and learning Katas. It's something I can do forever and never tire of.

I've been a student of Austin Kung Fu & Tai Chi for over ten years. While Martial arts in general can be a life-changing experience (I've trained at other schools), there are things about this school and style that differentiate: - Kung Fu and Tai Chi are offered. You can take one or both. They compliment each other in wonderful ways. - Master Joe's philosophy is a wonderful and practical balance between traditional ways and "what works". Individuals are valued. Expectations of performance are tailored to YOU. This philosophy trickles down to all the teachers at Austin Kung Fu & Tai Chi. read more

If you're looking for a school that promotes positivity, strength, discipline and respect, it doesn't get any better than Shaolin-do. Both of my children, a girl and a boy, went through the programs overseen by Master Joe and his fantastic team. Both kids are black belts. Their years-long experience at Shaolin-do gave them confidence, improved their physical fitness and flexibility, and helped form them into wonderful people. Over the years, I have referred others into the school and they've stuck around too. This is a wonderful, no-nonsense community. Our family is grateful for the experience and we can't recommend it enough. -Janis P. read more

A Fantastic Kung Fu and Tai Chi school. The owners and other instructors are special people.

We were happy with classes but not customer service. When we needed to put hold on our monthly classes, we were told it could only be done through email, not in person. Sent email, no response, sent another email weeks later, acknowledged but no hold on account in place. We were charged again. Several emails sent after this, no response..We were charged for 4 plus months of classes when we were no longer going (notified beginning of february, credit card cancelled in june/july). We finally cancelled our credit card for other reasons, but at least it stopped us from being charged by Shaolin.. Unfortunate, because it seems like a good community. read more

This is not a good school for adults. Beginner classes are overburdened by upper belts, so the instructor doesn't spend much time with the newer students. The instructor's philosophy is that his "main goal" is for the guys to "hit and kick as hard as they can and feel good about it." If you are a woman, you will get inferior training because the instructor focuses on big guys with strength; he doesn't focus on skill much at all. I did get an OK workout, but as a former brown belt in karate, I found the martial arts instruction at this school very disappointing. read more

I went to kung fu and tai chi classes here for several years. Overall, I loved learning the beautiful forms and being able to get a great workout that was highly enjoyable and left me feeling tired, but energized rather than drained. While everyone was friendly, and willing to accommodate any physical limitations I had, there was a lack of personal attention, which I attribute to being already a brown belt and coming in from another state. I guess they just expected me to know what I was doing, although I was not trained in the exact same way. The main reason I decided to leave was lack of time on my part. I was very disappointed that after I stopped going, nobody ever inquired as to where I was and if I was going to come back (although I was Facebook friends with many of the people there.) So overall, I would definitely recommend this school to anyone who is new to Shaolin kung fu or tai chi and can be properly trained from the beginning. The forms are beautiful and I really enjoyed my time there. read more

My husband, children, and I all take Kung-Fu classes here and absolutely LOVE it. Master Joseph and Master Sheryl treated us like family from the very beginning. The kids' instructors are incredible! And the classes my husband and I attend keep us fully engaged and learning every time. I have made attending classes a priority in my very busy life and look forward to going each week. The instruction is well-delivered,respectful, and effective. It not only nurtures my body, but feeds my mind/spirit. My family and I plan to be members for life! read more

A martial arts school reflects the master. If you train long enough, you'll realize that the martial arts world is filled with testosterone and ego -- but you won't find any of that in Master Joe's school. My wife put it this way, after attending a Shaolin Do tournament: "That was wonderful! Everyone was friendly and supportive. Martin (our son) was the youngest one in his sparring competition and he was having a hard time. One of the instructors took him aside between rounds and gave him some pointers, and he did much better after that." And it wasn't just our son -- I saw that kindness repeated over and over during the tournament. Master Joe and all his instructors will help you get wherever it is you want to go in the martial arts. There are intensive conditioning classes if you're after fitness. There are sparring classes if you want to hone your fighting skills. You can focus on tai chi and chi gong if you want to improve your meditation practice. Every teacher will treat you with kindness, patience, and respect -- and they all understand that people have busy lives outside the studio. Come in, try a free class, and see what the people are like. You have nothing to lose, and you'll get to spend an hour with genuine, friendly people. If you have kids, take them to a kids class, or, if they are ten or up, you can bring them to an adult class with you (my 10 year old daughter and 12 year old son go to classes with me). You won't find a better place to train in Austin. read more

I've been taking my son for a little over a month now after researching school after school. This seemed to be the best priced with the best teachers, and I was right! I love it and so does my 5 year old son. The instructors are so kind and really care about the kiddos. They're great with them! And there's usually about 3-5 instructors so the groups are usually divided into 2-5 kids at a time, meaning more time for instruction. This is a great way to boost your child's confidence while having fun and teaching them discipline. It's awesome to see my son get excited when he earns a stripe on his belt and work towards getting the next one! read more

I've been a student of various martial arts off and on for about 30 years. Some places are overly macho and quasi-military. Others are mystical, opaque, secretive. I've been delighted at Shaolin-Do. The people are friendly, not overly macho. The skill and fitness level they produce here is superb. The atmosphere is always good humored and welcoming, There is a good blend of guys, women and kids. The forms you learn are vast, applicable to fighting and, even more so, to all the challenges which life provides. Check them out! I did, with my son, and we devoted ourselves to years of study and recently got our black belts together. What a fantastic experience. read more

Brady is still going to this Kung Fu school. He turns 12 next month. He is working on his black belt (he had his black with brown stripe right now). He says he sees himself going to college in Austin, and still being a student here. He hopes to be an instructor here one day. He is a lifelong member. No regrets! read more

Two of our adult sons have attended the schools for about 12 yeats and both have reached third level black belt at Shaolin-do. Master Joe is a great teacher and the programs are top notch. My husband took tai-chi classes and enjoyed them. Great schools for adults and childrens. I would recommend this to anyone. read more

This school is awesome! I'm 57 years old and started as a timid couch potato wanting exercise ten years ago. I have gotten stronger and much more flexible as a result of my classes. The teachers are always patient and never try to push you faster than you can go, but they motivate you to do your best. I always enjoy my classes at the school! read more

When I was a member of Shaolin-Do Kung Fu and Tai Chi of Austin, I could walk in anytime, and participate in almost any class, as long as my belt level was high enough. E.g., by the time I was the highest of the three brown belt levels, I could walk in an attend a white, yellow, blue, green, or any brown belt class, not to mention random types of clinics, workout & conditioning classes, meditation classes, and Tai Chi classes that I was eligible for. Finally, even when there wasn't a class available to me, I could work out in the common areas, lift weights, stretch, or practice forms, be they open-hand or weapons. I could always find training partners or work out alone. It meant for lots of variety, and I didn't always have to push myself too hard if I was dragging ass that day. If I had a day that I was feeling lethargic or something, I could go in and work out light, and usually leave feeling loose and refreshed. The student body is highly diverse, especially in age and gender. The types of training you can choose to put your body through is also 100% diverse. Not only is it a great place to sign up your kids, but there are many adults of all ages and walks of life, including women, and lots of different personality types. In some ways I'm pretty outgoing, some ways I'm not outgoing. If you don't have a Type-A competitive personality, it's very easy to make friends here, and find training partners, but there are a lot of high level black belts that have been training here for years, that you can train hard with. It's all available to you, virtually 7 days a week, early morning to pretty late at night. Awesome. read more

My son has been training here for 2 1/2 years, is a brown belt, and looks forward to going all the way to black belt. The instructors are very sweet to the kids, while maintaining an environment of order and stick-to-it-iveness. My only complaint is sometimes feeling lost in the shuffle due to the number of students they have. But they are usually fine with a polite reminder. Nice school with a pleasant atmosphere. I would highly recommend Shaolin Do, especially for kids. read more

I've been going here for over 10 years and can't imagine ever stopping. It's my second family. The teachers and fellow students are friendly and very helpful. I started out in my 40's and didn't think I would be able to do some of the things I saw the more senior belts doing. It took practice by me and loads of patience from the instructors, but now I am. Thank you for a great place to come to. read more

My kids have been attending this school for nearly two years, and they still love it. It continues to challenge them, but the instructors are positive while not allowing them to skate by. For a child who needs a good physical activity, needs a challenge, and needs to see that she can actually achieve something with hard work, this school is everything we could have wanted. We came in skeptical, as there are many stories of bad schools out there. Now, we are converts, and I expect that we'll be staying for a while. read more

I just started studying Tai Chi at Shaolin Do, and I LOVE it! Masters Joe, Ben, and Jason are all patient and encouraging, and everyone is so busy focusing on their own growth that I quickly got past my "beginner" self-consciousness. Give it a try! read more

My son started at Kung Fu Austin (North) about 2 months ago and he absolutely loves it. He would go everyday if he could. He has already had a belt test and was so proud of his work. He is determined by age 12 he is going to be a black belt. I am proud of him and I think Shao Lin Do Kung Fu-Austin is wonderful for helping him learn this very valuable skill. read more

A school friend of my daughter's suggested we visit this Kung Fu studio four years ago. I'd always wanted both of my kids to study some kind of martial arts discipline - I was very impressed upon our visit. Master Joe greeted us immediately at the door and assigned both children to instructors. I was extremely impressed with the professionalism of the instructors and how nice Master Joe was to all of us! After the kids had been in Kung Fu for a year or so, I decided to try it! I was encouraged to know that many of the Black Belt adult instructors had started Kung Fu later in life. I'd always wanted to be in a martial arts class and now the opportunity presented itself! It was difficult at first - I learned to move my body in ways I had never done before. I was the only white belt in my morning class for several months, but I stuck with it! After green belt, remembering Kung Fu forms became much easier. I became stronger, more flexible, and less frustrated! I love trying out the cool weapons. My ability to focus and concentrate improved dramatically (which improved everything else in my life). After a while, I didn't feel right if I DIDN'T go to class (at least 3-4 times a week). After every class, I am more energetic, flexible, and resilient - I really channel it into my workday and feel like I can do anything!! I recently became a first degree Brown Belt. Sifu Hugh of 7:30 am class and the other instructors (with their undying patience) have been instrumental in helping me get there! My daughter is a junior black belt and thoroughly enjoys the classes and I am going for Black Belt and will keep going for as long as I can! I would highly recommend this school for anyone that would like to improve self-disciplne, overall fitness, resilience, and self confidence! Theresa read more

First of all, I'm 22 and have been doing some form of Martial Arts since I was 5. When I was around 9 or 10 I started this particular school--the south location which is no longer there. My dad actually is one of the instructors and our whole family practiced for many years together. I haven't been in a few years although if I had time I would LOVE to go back. I had nothing but great experiences going here. My dad still teaches and loves it. It is perfect for working out and self defense. Great for kids, families, and people of all ages. I feel personally connected with Master Joe and his family as well as many of the instructors. I think a lot of the people that are dedicated to the program do. They see how knowledgeable he is and how much he cares. I think that growing up learning Shaolin Do gave me a great respect for authority, discipline, the sport/art of martial arts and if I ever have kids I would put them in this school. CANT SAY ANYMORE HOW MUCH I LOVE THIS PLACE. read more