I came here to speak with the Sensei and observe Imwama Aikido with Christopher Fields; as I was…read moreconsidering to join his dojo. [the building holds segregated styles and disciplines of martial arts in different rooms/ It's not just all Karate] Christopher is a great instructor who is a true trained and masterful teacher of Imwama styled Aikido. The students respect his teachings and show honor in the dojo. Something that everyone should respect. The groups here range in all ages and techniques, I witnessed him teaching young boys and elder men in the same techniques, as the class learns all equally. I enjoyed his enlightened humor to break the sometimes quiet seriousness of the dojo during training while still keeping focus and allowing all the students to understand that its okay to make a mistake or ask questions. I appreciated the email communication and personal interaction with Christopher and I look forward to possibly joining his dojo soon.

The head instructor's technique is very effective. The senior students take care of and help the…read morejunior students. Everyone is having fun. I started training at Austin Iwama Aikido in March 2015 and am very thankful that a school with this caliber of instruction (clear and precise) and a Sensei with this lineage exists here in Austin. If you're interested in Aikido, I strongly suggest observing a class.

Sensei Chip is a great instructor and allows all ages and abilities. He focuses on respect,…read moretechnique, and skill, not a bunch of belts that don't mean much. When you earn a belt in his class, you know he thinks you're ready. Both my son and I signed up for the class and have been attending for a year. We have both advanced and gone to tournaments (something I would have said was flat impossible 18 months ago) and done well.

Sensei Chip is a wonderful instructor. I am very glad that my daughter has begun going to this…read moreclass (north location) in addition to the classes held in the south location. She has grown as an individual physically, and in terms of cognitive development (focus, concentration, attention etc) since she began learning karate from Sensei Chip in September 2013. Sensei Chip is dedicated to his children; he puts his heart and soul into training his kids and making them the best they can be. He is a no nonsense person, who calls it as it is. He does not like to waste time or fool around in his class. His honesty and diligence in training his kids is wonderful to see. I could not be happier with the classes and/or my daughter in Sensei Chip's class. He is dedicated, hardworking and it shows. Take a chance, visit his south or north location, you will not be disappointed.

(There is also a Kid's Kung Fu program now - at both school locations)…read more I enjoy the classes and the people and have made many new friends, including friends with the instructors and job leads. The instructors are great and come from a variety of martial arts backgrounds. They respect the students and instill confidence in your ability as a student to learn the style and as a student you have confidence in their ability to teach. Of the three styles I have taken Ving Tsun (Wing Chun) has proven to be the most fun and is at the same time challenging enough so that you can't get bored. The classes are usually a mix of starting with your forms (there are 2 for students) or punching exercises as a warm up and then moving into practicing what is required for your student grade by either working with students of the same grade or higher ranked students. You also get to practice the other stuff you have previously learned by working with the newer students and nearly everything has an application in the real world of defense. Do we not spar (unlike other styles, such as Tae Kwon Do), Ving Tsun is not a "sports" martial art, it is for self-defense, you defend yourself and stop the other person before they can hurt you (in the real world, not in class) so there is no gentle, safe way to spar (Google Wing Chun if you have doubts). There are also few forms; actually there are 3 empty hand forms, 1 wooden dummy form, and 2 weapon forms, and students only learn the first two forms until the end of the student grades. Not that there isn't plenty of stuff, do such as Chi Sao and Lat Sao, both of which require a partner and help built technique and reactions, while "teaching" your muscles how to react (check out Wikipedia for more information).

This is a fine martial arts studio that provides you just that, the ability to study a…read morewell-designed martial arts system meant for practical applications, not performance arts. You will build upon your reflexes and ability to deflect and deliver strikes with each passing class, and if you work hard, you will feel it. I've joined as a student of Sifu Jeff Webb, the head of the National Ving Tsung Organization, to learn as much as I can during the time I have remaining in Texas, before transferring to a student of his in the North who is now also a Sifu (instructor or master, I'm not quite sure really which term is most appropriate). Thus far I have learned a great deal, and observed the high level of skill possessed by each of his students ranked from low and high, with the higher ranked students also working as assistant instructors to provide valuable input and more skilled training partners to guide your development. I attend classes in both the North and South locations to experience a broader range of instructors and training partners to build upon my understanding more comprehensively. Classes consist of an initial period of taxing and difficult form practice that appears hella easy when done well, followed by exercises with a partner that exhibit and employ the techniques learned in the forms, generally taking up much of the class. Very straightforward, but not at all simple, with only heavy effort bringing about real improvement. Ving Tsung/Wing Chun, made famous by Bruce Lee and Ip Man, is a center-line striking style created by a woman for close-quarters combat that requires one to be relaxed excepting the points of impact, allowing strength to be overcome by angling and reaction time, making strength all the more powerful once the style is understood, something my boxing and other training is making difficult as I'm relatively rigid and tense, so this style is helping me to learn fluidity and to better employ my power at appropriate times rather than wasting energy when it isn't essential. Yoga oddly enough I approached as a strength and stamina-building exercise, so it has done little to improve my flexibility, just power and reaction time, as I am not zen enough apparently. The wing chun perspective I will transfer into my legal studies and eventual practice, as it is an expansive philosophy useful elsewhere in life that helps you not waste energy, and have the push-through when it counts. One of the key precepts of the system constructed by Sifu Webb is something to the effect of "If the way is open, move forward", something entirely in tone with the Norse ideology of the Vikings, and I appreciate this. The studio is absolutely worth checking out if you are serious about your training, and definitely is not a lunchtime cardio or high-flying acrobatic activity, it is a place to go to learn a fighting style with hard-working and committed fellow students and teachers that follows a logical progression and isn't going to waste your time.

We have really had a good experience here. The teachers are warm and enthusiastic and want the kids…read moreto succeed. They give each student attention and encouragement. I've seen a change in my son since he started. He seems much more confident. The space also couldn't be any nicer. They start wrestling day one, so they get to experience jiu-jitsu right away. Honestly if I had a better spine I'd totally want to take classes here. It looks really fun.

Our son went in for a one day free trial. We joined in on the 10am home school kids group…read more Professor Alex was great at instruction and went over a couple of different moves. My son blended in well and enjoyed rolling with the well trained students. We talked them into allowing him to join the evening youth comp class. Professor Philipe ran that class and runs it efficiently. Its for sure was advanced techniques that we've been wanting to learn. After class my son was acknowledged for doing well and was invited back for the rest of the week! My son was so excited to go back every day... especially Saturday for open mat.

Whether you're interested in exploring capoeira, getting into shape, pushing your limits or just…read moredoing something different, this is the place to go. A fun and healthy way to exercise while experiencing culture and tradition. This environment is VERY kid friendly! The programs for children are great for early development in motor, physical, and social skills. The instructor is welcoming, patient, and knowledgeable. He makes the classes fun for both kids and adults.

We dont have enough good things to say about Alex at North Austin Capoeira. Our daughter looks…read moreforward to going every week and she is always happy there. She has been going for a year now and wants to continue for many more. We highly recommend North Austin Capoeira!

We have been coming to this location (NW Austin/Research Blvd) for 4 months now & in that short…read moretime there has be a significant change in not only all of our daughters' confidence levels but also in their focus & accountability at home and school. They always look forward to class & wish they were coming more than twice a week, this alone speaks volumes to the awesomeness of these instructors. It is like winning the golden ticket to find ANYTHING that all of my girls even agree upon more or less love. The instructors here don't just talk the talk, they truly walk the walk & are fully vested in the well being of their students. We had originally bought Groupons for the girls to try the school out, especially with the needs of our oldest who is visually impaired, and it was the best decision. Our daughter is the first blind student Mr. Maldonado or Ms. Azzarito has taught and it didn't deter them in the least. She received a lot of initial one on one time until she felt comfortable & confident enough with her basic forms & moves to join in the main class. They continue to find adaptions as needed for her but expect no less than any other student in class Mr. Maldonado is amazing with his students both big & small, he is quick with praise while still teaching with a firm hand. His upbeat energy resounds with the class & is highly contagious. Ms. Azzarito is incredible, she has a passion for working with people and goes above & beyond with the kids. We had an issue arise with one of our girls and Ms. Azzarito sat down with her to not only help her see how her choices & actions impact her directly but also those around her. They discussed cause & effect, better choices and Ms. Azzarito held her accountable, following up with her & making sure she has the support to help continue making smarter decisions. Ms. Bardin never fails to have a smile for you & has the patience of a saint. My 8 year old loves to ask a million questions & Ms. Bardin always answers every single one. Thank you!

Mr. Maldonado and Ms. Azzarito are wonderful teachers and really care about their students. You can…read moretell because they remember their names (way better than I could), make sure that all new students feel welcomed and accepted, and they make the kids feel good about themselves and their abilities. They make classes fun, but maintain discipline, and I am constantly amazed at how well they are able to work with all different personalities of kids. I could go on and on about their self-defense techniques, their concern with behavior in class AND at home, and the many times when I see the little students all the way from toddler to school aged reciting the Tiger pledge and speaking confidently and in unison. It really does choke me up to hear it sometimes. :) I hesitate posting TOO good a review because I want to keep them all to myself, but they truly are wonderful people, and the more kids that learn from them, the better this world will be!

This is a review of the kid's birthday package here…read more When my son told me that he wanted to be a ninja, the Asian parent in me started questioning my child-rearing abilities. Why not aspire to be a noble Samurai? What would Confucius say? After some talking, I discovered that what he really wanted was to be a Ninjago. Whew! Now, this a modern science problem--how to turn a kid into a Lego. The suburban mom in me combed the Internet for the perfect ninja birthday party theme. We came upon this location and I called to schedule a birthday party. I spoke with Martin, who was very helpful. He gave me a tour of their large, clean space and help me customize the birthday package. He was extremely helpful. We decided to have a bounce castle to pen the kids as guest were arriving. After all the kids have arrived, Martin and his team started with a short safety course to use when being approached by strangers. Next, swords were brought out and the little ninjas were trained in Kendo. Finally, they got to put on headgear and there was a sword fighting tournament. The parents and I were amazed at how Martin was able to capture and hold a bunch of 5-8yr olds attention for over and hour. We were really impressed and the kids are still talking about the party a week later! The most memorable part for my son was the fact that got to be the co-teacher and show off his moves by breaking a wooden board. He was very proud! Sword training-complete! Now, how am I going to find a place that teaches the ninja art of poisoning?

Awesome instructors that are great with the kids. They do a great job still instilling a sense of…read morepurpose and respect, while keeping the classes fun and engaging. They allow the students to advance at their own pace and offer ways of students expanding beyond the traditional martial arts forms. Can't recommend them any more highly!

If you've ever attempted something only to regret having not attempted it 10 years sooner, then you…read morecould relate to my feelings of learning Ving Tsun at the Moy Yat Kung Fu Academy. Every time I attend a class is like adding another frame in my own 'preparing to face the ultimate bad guy' montage for my personal kung fu movie. I've been studying there for almost 8 years, and have seen the changes in both my mind and my body. They don't come over night and it does take a lot of hard work and determination, but on those rare instances when a cup of coffee inadvertently slides off the table and onto your lighting fast hands, it fills you with surprise and pride in yourself, leaving you wanting more. Sifu and Simo Vyvial have been very good to me. They are kind, supportive, and patient, but by no means are they the easiest instructors. While VT strives to find your physical weaknesses, Sifu and Simo will find your mental ones. The system and the instructors will work tirelessly to heal and strengthen you for as long as you let them. There will be times when it gets really difficult...really difficult. But more often there are days when you can ask yourself "How did I just throw 10,000 punches?" I actually have no idea how I accomplished that...I just did it. The system they teach is transformative in a way because in addition to growing your strength and agility, it also hardens your resolve as well. And I think that's why I love this school so much.

In my lifetime, I have done many things. I've played soccer and lacrosse and run track events. I've…read morestudied different styles of martial arts, ranging from boxing to traditional jujutsu. I have never found anything as rewarding and powerful as the Ving Tsun Kung Fu taught at Moy Yat Kung Fu Academy. When I walked through the door two years ago, I was as close to broken physically and emotionally as I had ever been in my life. I had been through a big medical crisis, had my depression, anxiety and ADHD were through the roof. On top of it, I was drinking a lot and my cigarette smoking was at an all time high. From the minute that I walked in, I could tell that I was in a place that was very carefully kept and deliberately arranged. Everything about it was cultivated, from the placement of the resting benches to the wooden dummies standing by the doors. The instructor who was there for my introduction lesson was informed, kind and was able to push me beyond the what I thought myself capable of. Over the last two years since then, I've been training alongside some of the most wonderful people in Austin. The teacher at the school, whom we call "Sifu", which is Cantonese for "teacher", is very involved in the growth and development of every student, but has a teaching style that is more about inspiration and leading from behind than over-teaching. More often than not, we are helped to discover things on our own and figure them out, rather than simply going through rote drill after rote drill. Sifu does not have an assembly line: while every student of his is recognisably his student, everyone's Kung Fu is very different depending on their personalities, bodies, etc. To me, this is the sign of a master teacher. He has passed on Kung Fu while completely maximising the natural capabilities and advantages of each student. These days, I'm stronger than I ever have been in the past. I'm not on knee braces any more. I've quit drinking. I don't smoke any more. The calm that I've found from the training has helped me not need the medications I was taking for depression, anxiety and ADHD. I am in every way a much stronger person than I was when I first walked in. Kung Fu is generous to you. There are some things that give you exactly back what you put into it, a linear, 1:1 ratio of reward to effort. Kung Fu's reward structure is logarithmic. You will get far more of out of it than you put into it for the first several years, with it slowly tapering off as you get to the decade mark. I cannot enough stress what a wonderful place this is and how much what I've learned here has made my life better. Walk in. Take a lesson. You won't be disappointed.