I have been a student at Austin Kung Fu & Tai Chi for over 20 years. It is a wonderful place to train! The Schaefers are great teachers and they have built a great school. I recommend this place without reservation!

I started with tai chi at your school. It had such a positive impact on me that, almost 3 years later, Im still on the path, just at a different school closer to home.

Its important to stay active as an adult. The benefits are more than just physical, but for ones mental fitness as well. Kung Fu not only improves my strength, flexibility and range of motion, but my balance, and learning new movements helps one to keep their mental acuity as well.I was interested in taking up Kung Fu prior to the lockdowns, and thought I had missed yet another window to join. Master Joes online classes and morning workouts have been a bright spot to fight the isolation and to keep in shape. The opportunity to safely practice in person on Saturday mornings helps, and provides some needed interaction as well. The classes can meet the skill and ability of anyone, from limber kids to active young adults to us (much) older people who are just starting.Master Joe and Master Sheryl have provided an easy (and fun) way to stay active and improve ones fitness, weather its Kung Fu, Tai Chi, or a combination of the two. Its simple to join the activities, and the presentation of the classes and workouts are flexible enough to cope with the things that can come up. They are both eager teachers, happy to share their knowledge and experience.

Starting Martial Arts at Shaolin-do while you are 50 years or older may feel daunting when it is actually not since you start little by little at your current physical condition with a wonderful family environment provided by Master Joe, Master Sheryl, and the rest of instructors and community. I started when I was 56 years old coming out from a surgery that left me with little activity for almost six months. I was able to regain my strength thanks to the school and realizing that we cannot stop the clock, but we can slow its tick and enjoy life as we age with grace and vigor through exercise. When we step into our 50s (and more in our 60s) endurance, strength training, flexibility, and balance exercises become our best friends to stay fit and reduce health problems. Shaolin-do not only provides an environment to keep us fit through Kung Fu and Tai Chi but also provides a family environment where we all growth in mind, body, and spirit. You cannot find a better school in Austin with students practicing Kung Fu/Tai Chi at the school for almost 30 years. That is right, the school has its roots since the early 90s and its students are not replaced but extended. Some of the students take a break, for example going to college, change of jobs, young family responsibilities, but many of them come back. There are decades of learning possibilities at this school.You cannot ask for a better Martial Art school that what Shaolin-do offers as a way of life to keep our physical body and minds strong. The benefits obtained from Kung Fu and Tai Chi classes are profound increasing flexibility and balance, range of motion, strength, and coordination boosting confidence and greater well-being protecting our minds and bodies form the effects of age.Master Joe, Master Sheryl, and the rest of the instructors provide a body of excellence at the school blending a family environment with training “Making Life Better”.I have been learning Kung Fu and Tai Chi at Shaolin-do for almost 7 years and love it.

I started to join kung fu school because my daughter was in class :) Little did I know the Austin Kung Fu school and its awesome teachers and students gradually pulled me in, not a like a storm but more like a persistent rain. The school not just keeps me healthy and motivated, but also keeps me sane during this whole pandemic time. I dont feel any stress or mental blockage when I have the kung fu companionship by good buddies at school and the nurturing teaching of Master Joe and Master Sheryl. Over 5 years, I see how Master Joe always tries to get everyone move forward. That is super hard when we have a lots of different types of students in the school. Austin Kung Fu does not just provide a skill; it provides a lifetime development and grow in Shaolin Kung Fu.

As a beginner in my late 50s, overweight, out of shape, and dyslexic, I was an unlikely candidate for martial artist. My original goal was to get my 13-year old son interested in Kung Fu, to get some exercise, and maybe lose some weight. It was difficult at first: initially I thought I was going to croak just during warmups, I was often on the wrong foot, and would routinely arrive at the end of a different kata than I started. Needless to say, no ones star student. But I refused to give up. Nor did Master Joe, Master Sheryl, the other instructors, or my fellow students, give up on me. At age 60 I managed to achieve the 2nd degree Black Belt alongside my son, and still keep up (more or less) with the youngsters. Im still not a star student (although my son became one). But I am deeply grateful for the support, encouragement, and friendships that have accompanied the excellent martial arts training. Im in the best shape of my life. Shao-lin Do has definitely made my left better.

I’ve been at the school since 2005. I’ve grown mentally and spiritually, while at the same time shrinking physically ( about 100lbs) as I’ve found my way up the ranks. There’s not another place quite like it that I’ve experienced. I keep coming because I want to surround myself with people who love training, love teaching, and love humanity as much as I do. It is also the most fulfilling and fun hobby I’ve ever taken on! Life does not get easier; we get better at life. I can honestly say that I am better at everything else I do in my life because I train here.As a parent I am seeing the same results from my daughter. She’s four and just starting her journey, but it’s really brought her out of her shell. I’ve seen huge strides in her balance, confidence, and strength that are well above anything that could be described as natural developmental growth. Continuing the path she’s begun, she will be miles ahead of many of her peers at school in a few years. Knowing how much I’ve grown starting as an adult, I wish that I had been given the opportunity to train when I was her age.BUT...don’t take my word for it, go try a free class - you wont regret it.

Before I began learning Kung Fu, I felt stuck. Trips to the gym were growing shorter with longer breaks between workouts. I was bored of my routine and needed something new.I hopped online and searched for a place to learn martial arts. After reading the reviews, I decided to try Austin Kung Fu and Tai Chi. It was exciting walking into the school. It felt like stepping onto the set of a movie with everyone kicking and punching. The students seemed driven. Everyone had a purpose.However, my first lesson was nothing like the movies. I am not the plucky hero of some action film with innate grace, skill, and talent. So when my instructor began showing me the moves I was supposed to learn, I thought, “You want me to do what? My body just doesn’t bend that way.”For some reason, I continued trying. There was no inspirational scene with epic background music for my training, but I kept going back. Each punch and kick brought me closer to success.I did not realize this at the time, but I was stepping onto the path to become the best version of myself. The self-defense and the forms are a small part of Kung Fu. Training has given me skills and tools beyond martial arts. The increased self-awareness and focus required to learn these ancient forms has extended to every aspect of my life.Now, I have earned a black belt in Shaolin-do Kung Fu. I am a martial artist. And though I am not yet the perfect version of myself, I know that I am much closer than I was before. Thanks to Master Joseph, Master Sheryl, and all of the incredible instructors, my life is permanently altered for the better.And I wish to share this with everyone who seeks to better themselves. I can say with absolute certainty, if you join this school, you will discover what you are truly capable of. Austin Kung Fu and Tai Chi will give you a community of people who will share in your victories and help carry you through your failures.

You cant ask for a better martial arts learning experience than what is provided here. We have participated in adult and kids Kung Fu during in-class sessions and virtually during the lock down in 2020, and its evident Masters Joe, Sheryl, Ben, and the other devoted teachers are constantly adjusting the experience for each student to get the most out of class with the right mix of workout, training, and tradition. They work hard to create a comfortable environment with a sense of community that encompasses casual learners through the most devoted. Their decades of experience as business owners, teachers, and students shine through in every interaction.

Memory, strength, and balance are aspects of kung fu training that really help this lady enjoy life and retirement. Plus its really addictive - love those endorphine rushes after a great workout with friends! I hope to continue for a long time.

I moved to Austin looking for a community, and boy did I find one! The students and teachers at the school are constantly uplifting and also pushing growth not just in martial arts, but through supporting positive lifestyles and habits that encourage personal growth on all levels. Learning the style has been a blast, and Master Joe and Master Sheryl foster the most positive martial arts experience Ive had. Its great exercise with good people, and just as importantly its a lot of FUN!

Long time student here. Best place in Austin for family Martial Arts.

When I first moved to Austin after college, I tried several martial arts schools looking for a good fit. My main criteria at the time were a good workout, cool looking forms, and a friendly environment. Seventeen years later, I can easily say I found that and so much more. Shaolin-Do has bettered every aspect of my life, from physical fitness to mental acuity and overall confidence. I can easily say I would not be the person I am today if I had not been training with such an incredible martial arts family for all this time. My oldest son is now 5 and loves the teachers and showing me everything he learns. Even during the current craziness of Covid-19, Master Joe and Master Sheryl have found a way to keep everyone in the school active, learning and, most importantly, connected.

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!

I started Kung Fu training two years ago at age 49. I’m doing things now that I couldn’t have done 10 or 15 years ago. The balance, strength and flexibility that I’ve gained in this program have been transformative.

I was looking for a place to start my Martial Arts journey and found Austin Kung-Fu and Tai Chi. Master Joe made my first virtual visit to the Dojo easy to understand and he shared different options with me and what would work best. Since then, I have attended both in person and virtual classes and have had some solid progression each week. Its nice to have a sense of accomplishment in a welcoming and friendly environment. Thank you Master Joe and Master Sheryl.

I have been part of this community since 2003, and I say community because thats what it is. And for the last two years, my child has also been part of the community with me. Its more than just a way to exercise, more than just learning self-defense. Its training for life. I am proud to call Master Joe and Master Sheryl my teachers. They are constantly looking for ways to improve what is already a pretty great student experience.

I came to this school with the desire to make myself excited about exercise, but Ive gained so much more along the way.Ive always felt welcome at this school, and always felt like I am making progress. whether its learning something new, or honing the things Ive already been shown.I especially recommend the Friday night conditioning and sparring class!

Joining was the best decision Ive ever made. Great community, great instructors, just great overall. There is enough material to keep you going for a lifetime. A relaxed atmosphere for learning but youll still get a good sweat going.

COVID-19 cannot even break this school and its sense of community. ZOOM classes happen every day for all levels so that no ones kung fu/tai chi training is being left behind. Three of us in our family are taking classes via ZOOM at different levels. Sometimes we do it in the house with the laptop connected to the TV, and other times we practice in the backyard with ZOOM class on the laptop. I have really appreciated Master Joes and Master Sheryls commitment to providing so many classes per day, every day of the week, for flexibility. It has provided a consistent and enjoyable/rewarding activity in our lives when very little feels routine and predictable, and for that I am very grateful. I love to see everyones smiling faces each time.

When the school closed down with the rest of the City of Austin in March, I was so afraid that my training would come to an end until classes began again. I was thrilled when Master Joe and Master Sheryl announced that classes would continue on Zoom! What is really incredible to me is how productive the classes have been. Although Im working on 4th degree black belt material that is very detailed and complex, Im amazed at how much Ive learned, both new katas as well as details I missed when we reviewed katas Id previously learned. And just as important, the Zoom classes gave us all a chance to interact with our Kung Fu family members which is incredibly important to the community that Master Joe and Master Sheryl have created. We are so lucky to still be connected to each other at this stressful time in our lives!

This schools online kung fu and tai chi classes are the best youll find anywhere. And, for the best price! The owners, Master Joe Schaefer and Master Sheryl Schaefer, are dedicated to providing adults and children alike with the best experience possible for exercise, encouragement, and advancement in martial arts skills. They also offer retreats and workshops as added opportunities for personal insight, growth, and development. When you join the school, you join a strong community of support. I have been with the school for 20 years. It is an essential part of my life journey. The potential for learning and growth is endless. If you want a school that really cares about you and that will help you become the best you can be, this is the place to be.

I can’t believe I’m coming up on 9 years studying martial arts with my son and daughter at Austin Kung Fu & Tai Chi! My only regret is not starting my journey much earlier in life. You will fit in if you choose to join this school. All you have to do is take that first step.

Excellent in pretty much every way.

Prior to March 2019, Id never set foot in any type of martial arts school and never done anything like this. I joined the Shaolin-Do Tai Chi program because I saw their ad on Instagram; I wanted to do something different for myself and honor my mothers memory (she died in November 2018 and loved Chi Kung). Despite my initial trepidation regarding what I was getting into, I have found a truly wonderful and supportive community of people. Ive made new friends that are also teachers and training partners. Its good exercise (you will sweat doing some of the forms) and I always feel better at the end of class than I did at the beginning. Joining the Austin Shaolin-Do family is one of the best decisions Ive ever made for myself. I hope that youll feel the same after you join.

Tremendous dojo. Deep bench of senior ranks all willing to help. Master Joe and Sheryl are tireless teachers.

My 9 yo son has been studying kung fu here for several years. He has grown a lot in that time, and is focused and dedicated in class. We appreciate the leadership here for their consistent warmth and guidance!

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

Both of my children go to the North Austin Shaolin Do Kung Fu school. My youngest has been attending for over two years, first in the Tiger Program and now as a Dragon. My oldest has been a Dragon for just over one year. Both kids love the school and the instructors. The kids move up in rank approximately every 2-3 months - just enough to keep them invested but not enough that testing into a new belt loses meaning. I highly recommend this school for any families interested in martial arts for their kids.

The instructors here really do care about their students and are so patient, kind and honest with them. Our daughter is learning resilience and focus and we couldn’t be happier.

I have been going to Kung Fu here for over two years, and it has helped so many parts of my life. I would recommend them to anyone, of any age or ability level.

My wife and I were looking for an activity that we could participate in together in retirement. We chose to try the Tai Chi program in 2017. The classes have helped us to improve our mental and physical fitness at a pace we set.Since then, Ive started to participate in Kung-Fu classes for additional exercise and as a personal challenge.Weve been welcomed into the school community, and have really enjoyed our time at the school.

I have been training with Master Joseph for 6 years, and spent a total of 12 in the system. The curriculum is fantastic and there is never a class where you dont feel like you havent learned something. There is such a great camaraderie between students which makes the classes that much more enjoyable.Classes are accommodating to people of varying degrees of fitness. Dont feel intimidated if youve sat on the couch for years. Master Joseph and his instructors have the skill and patience to inspire anyone to achieve great things, both in and out of class.

An awesome location to train. Geared more towards passing knowledge on to the students and not towards trying to make as much money as they can off them.

This is a great institution, not only for learning martial arts, but as a place to meet awesome people. Every move and technique is awesome.

Very low-key, casual environment. I was a little intimidated to start but the instructors and students are supportive. Theres no pressure to join after your trial class (in fact, I had to bug them to let me sign up), and no contract (pay month-to-month). Having had experience with a more sales-based school, I really appreciate how this school is managed. Nice people, good workout. Go as many times a week as you want.

I LOVE this school and everyone in it. I started doing Kung Fu with absolutely no previous experience in anything similar on May 29th 2017 and havent looked back since. The owners Master Joe and his wife Master Sheryl are not only extremely talented but also super nice and sweet people. They really do care about all their students. I unfortunately sprained my foot and Master Sheryl suspended all my payments until I recover, and Master Joe even offered complimentary Tai Chi lessons when I start walking again. After I get over this sprain I will be back to earn my yellow belt for sure. If you are like me and could never find a workout you could stick to, trust me, this is it. We are a family here and everyone is genuinely concerned with everyone elses well being. If youre on the fence about it, just come over and spend one night with us. You wont regret it!

I have been a student with North Austin Kung Fu for over 10 years. Over that time, Ive been injured, had some kids, enrolled the kids, and re-enroleld myself. Many places teach martial arts, but here, you learn a deep and complex art with a great group of people that are a community. They are more interested in developing you as a person - applying the principles of the arts into your life - than they are in taking each student for as much money as they could. This is not a school for someone who wants to learn how to compete in MMA. This is a school for someone who is looking for a home to learn, get fit, and wants to improve their lives in general.After time off (as in a few years) from a back injury, I was way out of shape. The structure of the classes is such that I could take the time I needed to get back into shape, and now, continue to push the envelope with what I can personally do. I now watch my two kids grow within the system and apply what they learn to their own lives.

What started as a family event to explore Tai Chi has turned out becoming a family lifestyle as we enjoy both Tai Chi as well as Kung Fu. The community at North Austin Kung Fu are more than welcoming and the most encouraging folks youll meet. Knowledgeable in both the history as well as modern application, there is no place better to stretch yourself than North Austin Kung Fu.

Its been years since my dad and I came here in fact they where over on burnet when I was here last. Joe was always very helpful in making share that everybody in the class got the materialthe students need to move on before moving on to the next belt level. Im glade to see that hes still in business and hope he well be for sometime do to the great teaching and classes.

Wonderful people. Wonderful instruction. My grandson has made so much progress, and he loves it.

Everyone at Austin Kung fu is very welcoming whi ch made it more comfortable being there for my first time.

This is a great school, from beginners to advanced training. Master Joe Schaefer and his other teachers are well trained and easy to understand in all forms, from Tai Chi to Shaolin Kung Fu. Get in touch with your mind and body!

I attended the North School under Master Joes tutelage from white belt through 1st degree black. Being a part of Austin Shaolin-Do Kung Fu is the best thing Ive ever done for myself. Confidence, self-discipline, agility, awareness, fitness, and self defense skills. And more than that, the comraderie and friendships formed with people who share a common interest in health as well as the opportunities to contribute! Austin Shaolin-Do Kung Fu was the perfect answer for a physically weak introvert who could use a boost in self-esteem. And many bonuses, including learning to go deeper with meditation than I thought was possible, learning to do things with my body that I didnt think I could ever do, and learning to fly above the tree tops like a flying monkey ;)

Great sport for kids and adults. 2 of our sons were here few years back and our 3rd one is enrolling too...

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