Testimonials

I am so grateful, after years of searching, to have found such a complete and deep martial arts education at the New York City Shaolin Center. I had tried other schools before and left unsatisfied, but have found that Thad and the other students at the NYCSC are unexpectedly supportive, no matter what your level is. Turning 42 my body was not as responsive as it once was, but there were no judgments. Everyone's achievements are celebrated, everyone's progress is met with Thad's signature cheerfulness and positive support. I can safely say I have never had a more encouraging and enjoyable experience in a training environment like this before. And have never felt so accomplished in such a short time. The best part is, there is an abundance of material to learn, and as opposed to a gym membership, it is membership in a discipline that is over a thousand years old. Indeed, we are keeping alive something important, and there is a great sense of pride in that, too. I feel better than I ever have, and look forward to Shaolin as a discipline for the rest of my life.

—Mark

Being completely unfamiliar with the martial arts, I found the New York Shaolin Center very accessible. The exercise regimen is highly effective, and also teaches the necessary internal\breathing techniques that are often overlooked in other forms of physical training. Most importantly, the emphasis is on preserving and strengthening the entire body for life. The self-defense techniques efficiently harness your natural power and movement, making for a well-rounded way to keep fit and maximize your physical potential. No matter what level of conditioning you are at, the class is of terrific benefit. The students are friendly, patient, health-minded individuals who make for a warm and encouraging environment.

—Bradley

As someone in my thirties who had never studied a martial arts before, I was somewhat intimidated by the idea of making a fool of myself in a Kung Fu class. But from my very first day, I felt completely comfortable participating in class. The other students in the class were friendly and helpful, and not once did I feel like I was in a competitive environment. And head instructor Thad Wong, In addition to being a tremendously knowledgeable martial artist, is one of the most enthusiastic and friendly instructors I have ever had in any discipline. I wish I had found New York Shaolin years ago!

—Keith

Joining the NYC Shaolin Center is one of the best things I've ever done! Kung Fu training is both physically and mentally challenging and better than anything a traditional gym can offer. The very reasonable financial cost makes it a 'no-brainer' as well!

In addition to the physical and mental aspects, Kung Fu incorporates a spiritual dimension as well. The training provides a way of getting all three aspects to work in harmony, thus improving the overall quality of life. Simply put, I feel better on a daily basis since beginning Kung Fu!

The training at the Shaolin Center is non-competitive and everyone moves at their own pace. There are no tournaments to enter or trophies to be won. I suppose the only competition is with yourself.

I have no intention of stopping Kung Fu training at the NYC Shaolin Center any time soon!

—Michael

I really did not know what to expect before my first class at the NYCSC and I was relieved and happy to find a group of friendly, relaxed people. There is a real spirit of camaraderie in the class and the support of the other students is so encouraging.

Thad's passionate enthusiasm for the art is highly contagious and luckily for me he also has the patience of a saint!

Not only am I learning a fascinating set of skills and disciplines but I am also getting a proper workout! I find myself wondering why I am paying that expensive monthly gym membership when I get such an intense workout during Kung Fu class...

—Andrew

When I first moved back to New York I looked at EVERY martial arts school in the area. The high costs and the limited curriculum almost made me give up one of my life passions. When I discovered the NYC Shaolin Center, the history, the instructor, the individual attention and the commitment to both the form and the application of the art renewed my passion. It has kept me engaged for the three years that I have studied here and no matter how hectic my schedule becomes I am confident that this will always remain a lifetime commitment for me!

—Christina

I have found Kung Fu to be an empowering combination of discipline, dance, boot camp, gymnastics, and self-help. Thad Wong has built a nurturing community in which to do all of that, peopled by inspiring students (new and old alike), genuine camaraderie, and a thrilling work ethic.

—Jason

Coming to the New York Shaolin Center for the first time, I had no previous martial arts experience and was, frankly, a little intimidated. Imagine my delight upon discovering a highly supportive, non-competitive environment, where nonetheless students are challenged both physically and mentally each day. Thad is a patient, yet passionate instructor who is able to respond to each student's individual needs. Since beginning, I've learned focus, achieved balance, cultivated discipline and body awareness, and gotten into great shape, all while having a really fun time. Every class is exciting!

—Orion

Living in New York, it's so hard to get exercise, especially if you can't afford a gym membership, and if you find running to be mind-numbingly boring. Enter Thad's Kung Fu class - it's affordable, fun, challenging, and really satisfying. Instead of just working out, you are tapping into an ancient system of movement that helps you increase flexibility, grace, and focus, as well as strength. There is a concrete sense of progress that comes from tackling a new long form or finally being able to do 10 cat-style pushups. It has become a crucial respite from the chaos of my everyday life in the city.

—Sam

I've spent the bulk of my time on this planet being scrawny, lazy and uncoordinated. It was with great reluctance and skepticism that I began Kung Fu. Never would I have guessed how far reaching it's effects would be. It has transformed my life completely. It's made me more alert and more centered, confident and self assured. You will simply not encounter a teacher who is more caring, enthusiastic, and kind as Thad. He has never been anything other then completely patient and supportive- even with the slowest of students (me). I cannot possibly recommend these classes enough and would urge anyone who is even remotely curious to give it a shot as soon as possible. There's simply no reason not to give it a try.

—Jaime

I'm getting much more than an intense workout and self-defense techniques. I'm learning about posture, physiology and physics and how to control my body and focus my mind. Head Instructor Thad's patient, enthusiastic explanations make the difficult material understandable. I'm definitely sore after some classes, but I'm never bored!

—Jacob