Kung Fu at Shaolin Concepts is a fantastic, dynamic, powerful, self-defense class. I have learned so much while continuing to gain inner peace and valued friendships. Sifu Stephens is an extremely knowledgeable and empirical teacher. I love this art and this class. I would recommend this class to anyone looking for a meaningful, powerful and fun martial arts class.

Jook Lum Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu is a rare art, with very few teachers having been certified by the 5th Generation World Master Gin Foon Mark. Sifu Stephens, at Hendersonville Self-Defense, is one of the teachers that achieved that level of recognition.I enjoy the fact that Kung Fu encompasses mind, body, and spirit - emphasizing working to become someone better than you were the previous day, while simultaneously preparing you for the physical side of self-defense. Jook Lum Kung Fu is a powerful art, which sometimes gets hidden in the elegance of the forms, and makes someone a formidable opponent - should that be required. Sifu Stephens students come from diverse walks of life, but have common goals within the realm of improving oneself and assisting others to do the same. As such, every student there works with you to help you improve your skills.Jook Lum has helped me grow mentally and physically and I feel better than I have in many years. I believe this is an art that people can take well into their later years and look forward to practicing it for many years to come.

There are a number of essential elements necessary in order for a school of martial arts to truly serve its students in a comprehensive way. Clearly, the school needs to be offering time-honored, high-quality techniques of self-defense. Then, the teacher needs to demonstrate how a deep sense of respect is at the root of the art. To simply put deadly fighters out in the world would be no gift to society. Martial arts training is both physical and psychological, though the latter is not about outwitting an opponent. Its about cultivating greater self-confidence, greater compassion, and a more life-affirming attitude. It places martial arts training in the same general category as the healing arts. In the best case, the school would have its roots in an ancient lineage, a truly spiritual foundation. This is a subtle thing that may not be felt initially, but may make a world of difference in the lives of the students.I have been a practitioner of integrative medicine and of zen meditation, both for the past 25 years. When I came upon Shaolin Concepts, I knew I had found all that I was seeking in a school of martial arts, as I attempted to describe above. The forms are elegant, the students are a family, and the atmosphere is supportive, serious, and fun. The teacher and founder embodies the spirit of this beautiful art and has brought forth from generations of masters an invaluable gift to our community.

My doctor recommended some exercise so instead of joining a gym I wanted to learn something new. The staff and fellow members have been very supportive and offer 1 on 1 instruction as to my needs. I was concerned about aggravating some old injuries but they have actually improved. I am learning Kung Fu, karate, and stick fighting. It is very interesting to see how they are all related. You will not find that anywhere else under one roof! This school is an asset to our community and I highly recommend it.

My five-year-old grandson, Zak, has been a student at Shaolin Concepts for the last six months, and our family is delighted with his progress. My son met Master Stephens some time ago and liked what he saw, which is why he placed Zak in the school. I thought it would be merely learning martial arts, but it is so much more. Kung Fu is the primary reason for Zaks being at Shaolin Concepts. However, Master Stephens emphasis on discipline, respect for oneself and others, combined with giving his students lessons in leadership abilities is a great bonus. The children take turns leading classes, but he is consistently watchful to ensure that moves are being properly executed. Additionally, Master Stephens is direct and firm with the students—which most of them need.Our family has seen very positive results in Zak under Master Stephens tutelage. Without reservation, I sincerely believe that Shaolin Concepts is a great place for both kids and adults.

I am one of those musicians from the late 1960s early 1970s era that couldnt imagine living past 40. Now that Im pushing 60 and with ten years of total inactivity haunting me, I had to make the decision to pursue a healthier lifestyle or fade away without a fight. At Shaolin Concepts I found competent friendly people that have a positive outlook on life. The principles they teach are in harmony with the laws of nature, the instruction and exercises help you to build self-defense skills. All of this is confidence building and its so much more interesting then just working out at the gym. - Blix Raptor.

Best Around!!

Young old fast or slow you do not have to be an athlete, you just need to want to learn, learn an art founded by a small monk who watched a bug do what a bug does. If you want to learn more just show up and ask for the whole history, as passed down from Master to Master.

Big thank you to David and his team at Shaolin Concepts for offering a free self defense class after a few attacks in his hometown of East Nashville. Us ladies were put in several real life situations and forced to deal with the uncomfortable truth that anyone can be a target. I know we all left feeling pumped and more empowered. This team is truly a family. They offer martial arts for children and adults as well as healing massage. I am so excited to start classes soon with this team.

I have loved martial arts since I was a kid. I studied a few different forms when I was younger and have always regretted quiting. I decided to try Southern Praying Mantis here at Shaolin Concepts and was immediately impressed with the school. Sifu David Stephens is a remarkable man. He does more than teach skills to defend yourself. You learn to better yourself as person through eastern philosophy and spiritual growth. I have been here right at a year and have since quit smoking, started eating healthier and weight training again.If you have ever given any thought to practicing Kung Fu this is the place to learn. There is no tough guy mentality or ego thrown around in this school. Everyone is treated with respect regardless of age, race, etc. We think of one another as family. I hope you take the time to sit in on a class and experience its atmosphere first hand. Joining was one of the best decisions of my life!Best,Ty R.

***DISCLAIMER*** Very long. I had to express my sincere gratitude and share my story about how this school has changed both mine and my childs life.MY STORY:Bringing Cameron (my 4 year old boy) to Shaolin Concepts has been the best thing I have done as a parent; I learned about it through a colleauge who had heard about my continual struggles that was beginning to impact me and my work. A couple of months ago, after yet another HUGE tantrum, I walked in to the doors of Shaolin Concepts, practically dragging Cameron while he was kicking and screaming.I was a single mom with a busy career, and had a lot of guilt for not being able to spend more time with Cameron. Although i had a lot of support from family and friends, I felt alone. While i was fortunate to have support and get some relief, I have since learned that it was not making things easier due to all the icecream, Screen time, and showering of gifts that was occurring regularly. It seemed as if no one truly understood what i was going through; the intensity of my daily battles with this sweet boy had me running on empty and desperate for help. I was desperate for another way....I am not okay with raising a little boy who lacks respect for himself and others.Shaolin Concepts teaches kids (and adults), what its like to have discipline; and to actually have to work hard for something, without immediate results in return! Camerons willingness to try challenging tasks increase every week. His self confidence has improved and he understands respect. He can actually sit still and has self discipline.Words cannot describe the gratitude i feel in my heart, for the support and guidance that Shaolin Concepts has provided. I want to personally thank this school, specifically Master Stephens, for providing the guidance and direction to help us both get on the right track. I know that my life, as well as Camerons life, are better because of you. Thank you so much.Sincerely,Caroline and Cameron

After years of practicing Japanese Arts I wanted to explore Chinese Arts. I found Shaolin Concepts and began studying Southern Praying Mantis king Fu and I must say this style of close-in fighting is top notch. I’ve learned a lot more about self-defense which has expanded my previous martial arts training. Over the years I’ve met friends (brothers and sisters) studying this art. The school is an exciting place where u meet many interesting people through seminars or just visiting. Many of them are well renown in the martial arts world. I was very fortunate to come across the school because in addition to the main art (SPM) I’m also able to study Filipino Martial Arts and Shaolin King Fu; which is very physically demanding.Sifu Stephens is a great teacher and has a wealth of knowledge to share with his students. If you have the patience and time for learning Kung Fu this would be the place to be.

I am fortunate that I have been able to work myself into a position where I can spend my time pursuing things in life that interest me and bring fulfillment to my life. I decided earlier this year that it was time to get back to regularly practicing a martial art.Having practiced a few styles in the past and knowing that not all schools or instructors are created equal, I did some research and decided to spend a month with Master David Stephens and Guro Jerome Teague at Shaolin Concepts. I cannot say enough positive things about my experience during that initial month or about all the great things that I have experienced in their presence in the many months since then. The attention and dedication that that has been committed to the understanding and teaching of the disciplines at Shaolin Concepts by the instructors is beyond what I could have hoped for. They have not only imbued me with a much greater skill set than I had when I arrived but they have knit together a family from a group of individuals that come from all walks of life and not only taught us but helped us to learn from each other. I continue to grow in my art and my life and take away more from it daily.The feeling I get when I walk in the door is not that of walking into a school to attend class but that of walking into a home to spend time with a family that I truly wish to spend time with. Since becoming a part of this great community, my practice has improved, my work has improved, my health has improved, my relationships with friends & family have improved... My Life Has Improved.

I came across Shaolin Concepts soon after moving to TN. If I had to say one thing about this school, it would be that it has changed my life more powerfully than anything before. I have made many new lifelong friends and improved myself as a person physically and mentally. I have found discipline and faith in myself that I did not know existed. I am grateful for everything that Master Stephens has offered me and taught me. I would greatly recommend this school to anyone and everyone. Not only does it offer Kung Fu, but also Kenpo Karate and Filipino martial arts. Shaolin Concepts has been one of the greatest things in my life.

Sifu Stephens is very good at what he does. His school is one of only three in the Middle TN area that teach Southern Praying Mantis kung fu. His hands are very, very good and the Jook Lum style of Southern Praying Mantis is very devastating and powerful. Ive lost weight and Ive quit smoking since Ive starting studying this lost and mystical art. I highly recommend him as a great teacher and friend who teaches the spiritual aspect of kung fu as well as the short power methods for close range fighting.

This place is the real deal for learning Kung Fu. My son has been in a lot of trouble. He is becoming a better man because of Master Stephens philosophy.

After many months of passing by Shaolin Concepts on my way to work, I decided to drop by and see what this place was all about. From the very beginning of my complementary first class, I realized that this was a special place. The students at this school join together from all ages and walks of life to learn various styles of fighting arts taught by David Stephens. Master Stephens teaches with an old school style. He takes time with each student based on each of their needs, demonstrating the power of correct technique and also how study of the martial arts cultivates the human spirit.When I first joined after my initial class, I decided to focus on a single art, Southing Praying Mantis Kung Fu. After three months I have decided to enroll in unlimited classes, so I can begin to learn all the forms. From Mantis to Kenpo to Filipino Martial Arts, and all the kids and teen classes, everyone has something to learn at Shaolin Concepts. Since joining, the way I look at the world has changed. My awareness has grown and I am generally just a happier person. Everyone at the school has been a joy to been learn and laugh with, and I am very proud to call this school my new family. I implore you to come and give Shaolin Concepts a try. Enter with an open mind. You wont regret it!See you soon!Jacob

A gem in East Nashville! After moving to Nashville a couple of years ago I felt a draw to re-enter the world of Martial Arts studies. I saw an ad for Shaolin Concepts and decided to reach out and see what they had to offer. What a wonderful surprise! After speaking to Master Stephens, my wife and I took up the Jook Lum Praying Mantis classes and have loved every minute of it. Just the fact that you can find several different aspects of the martial arts under one roof, the family of people that has formed here is unmatched as to anything I have seen. Not only do you get the instruction of a world class Sifu, but you also are able to walk away with something that you can add into your personal life on a day to day basis. If you are thinking of studying martial arts, you really should give Shaolin Concepts a try, I think you will love it!

Being in Martial Arts since 1975 and a Martial Arts Instructor for over 30 yrs. I met Master Stephens 20 Yrs. ago and have been very impressed with his dedication and skills. His hard work has really paid off and his skills are very impressive. I would recommend is school to anyone wanting to learn true Martial Arts Skills with a Truly dedicated instructor I would go see Master Stephens. Keep up the GOOD work Master Stephens.Sijo Pascal S. Lane Sr.Ji Yow Shin Shi Tong LongNote: I am writing this under my wifes Screen name.

A few months ago I was looking to start training again in the martial arts. I came across Shaolin Concepts and decided to stop by. When I stopped by Master Stephens answered the door and was very welcoming. Based on that conversation I decided to give the school a try. At my first class I had a chance to see Master Stephens work with the youth and was very impressed. It was really good to see parents proud of the accomplishments and progress there kids were making.I have been no less impressed with the instruction I have received from Master Stephens in Southern Praying Mantis. He is very knowledgable and communicates a deep mastery of this art. I have also had a chance to work with Guro Jerome Teague in Filipino Martial Arts. He exemplifies the same mastery as well. They both make you want to learn. Also, the other students in the school are very encouraging as well. As a grad student and a minister its easy to neglect getting body-mind-spirit in relationship. Going to Shaolin Concepts helps me with this. If you get a chance, the school really is worth making the time for.

Great instructor and great people! Come out and join.

Shaolin offered a free self defense class for women shortly after a few attacks in East Nashville, and I figured that left me with exactly zero excuses not to get educated, so I went! David was welcoming, genuine, no bs, and knowledgeable. We spent about 4 hours discussing and playing out different scenarios and learned some simple, no-nonsense tools to employ should we ever find ourselves in a dangerous situation. He is obviously a learned practitioner of martial arts. He debunked the practicality of some of the classic self defense moves women are often taught, and replaced them in our metaphorical toolboxes with much more logical and simple actions. Clearly the Shaolin family is full of generous people - about a dozen truly kind folks from the Shaolin crew volunteered for the day to be our guinea pigs, despite the pain all us ladies would attempt to inflict on them. (They were all pretty dang tough, so attempt is the key word there...) East Nashville/Inglewood is lucky to have this studio in our community.

Sifu David Stephens is one of the Greatest Martial Artist in the Nashville Tennessee and surrounding areas. His school Shaolin Concepts is highly respected in the martial arts world. Sifu Stephens has a impeckable reputation of being an outstanding teacher with high standards, honor and caring for his students. I was blessed to meet my Jook Lum Brother in Southern Praying Mantis Class in 1997. We have been close Kung Fu Brothers for many years. Our art is unique, and as a Sifu teacher, I highly recommend his school as fantastic place to learn the Art of Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu.Also, I would like to thank, my Kung Fu Brother, for supporting me through all these years and recently in the opening of my new Praying Mantis Kung Fu School. Thank you my Kung Fu Brother!!!Sifu Wally Cornett

My name is Chris Gantry,.I am a 73 year old song writer who has been studying with master Stephens for about 7 months. In the seven months I have grown as a person learning the Shaolin principles of living and self defence. My confidence on this path has increased a hundred fold. I love the art of Southeren Praying Mantis Kung fu, and I have nothing but high regards for master stephens...I have been writing songs for over 50 years,.I know about the decipline and the endless hours it takes to get a grasp on an art form,.One must be dedicated to their passion,.The deeper one goes the more love one experiences for the Process.. Kung Fu like Music is endless,.it never ends,.The more one persues it the greater the Vista..Studying with Master Stephens is not studying Fooz Ball,.Its taking an adventure into the ancient and mystical precepts of the Art of Shaolin.

Sifu Stephens has an excellent school which effortlessly crosses the bridge from the traditional past into the practical present. He teaches Jook Lum Praying Mantis kungfu, a traditional southern Chinese system that is a practical system of combat in such a way that it is very effective for modern self defense application. I began learning this system of kungfu over 20 years ago from another teacher, have met and trained with some of the highest level masters in not only Jook Lum, but several other martial arts and in my experience Sifu Stephens walks the walk. He has trained directly with the 5th generation World Master Gin Foon Mark for several years and has understands the energetic and Spirit side of kungfu.Having grown up in a rough neighborhood in east Nashville, he also understands FIGHTING. There is no sport taught in his school... no pads, no referees.....just practical self-defense skill and self development practices through chi kung and meditation. In addition to Jook Lum, Sifu Stephens offers classes in Ng family style kungfu, Filipino Weaponry (sticks, knives) Filipino empty hand and Kenpo Karate.If you want to do sport-fighting, where you are 1 on 1 with an evenly matched opponent, with a referee, rules, a timer and a coach in your corner telling you what the next move to make is, this is not the place for you. There is one of those on nearly every corner.If you are looking for a close-knit group of people who value self-development and practical self defense that takes into account that the guy (or GUYS) on the street who is intent on harming you will NOT play by sport rules, may have a weapon, may have buddies around the corner, may be strung out on drugs, then please come and visit.

I started off with no previous knowledge of any martial arts, except what is seen in the movies. Also, I felt that I needed something to fill in a gap after I noticed a serious drop in motivation, attention, and overall health. I began searching online for martial arts to have some form of discipline where I could rebuild my focus and improve the health that I seemed eager to destroy. I found Shaolin Concepts in East Nashville and the moment I arrived to the first class session for jook lum, I was welcomed and felt at home by the classmates and instructor, Master Stephens. This is honestly the most comfortable and secure environment that I have been to for any kind of training. At this school, you learn to be part of a family as well as the arts with a connection to everyone and everything that is deeper than any I have found elsewhere. 8 months in and I have noticed a substantial increase in my stamina, my outlook is way more positive, I have better control on my temper, and I even seem enhanced in power. I would recommend (and have so to several people) this school to anyone interested in bettering themselves mentally, physically, even spiritually or to those that simply wish to be involved in a social group activity. I would like to say thank you so much to my Sifu for the incredible knowledge he has given me and thank you to the entirety of the Kung-Fu family for accepting me as a part of an ever-growing way of life.

@ Seth Johnson (MMA/BJJ MASTER) or probably wanna be! This is the real SETH JOHNSON! SHAOLIN CONCEPTS is a straight up legit school! The fighting taught here is very street effective I would bet my life on it! Since it is so weak and worthless to you why dont you actually go there to show Sifu Stephens and all the other people how worthless thier time and hard work is? Anyone can talk big from a key board! If you wish to keep your honor show your face or remove the review! Other wise you my friend are classless ! I am not confrontational but it so happens we have the same name and thats how I came into contact with this most excellent school, I was mistaken as an ignorant person. As I stated I do not look for confrontation but after spending the weekend with the owner of this school and Master of SPM I am now offended by your review! This is a good place,good people and I would encourage anyone to take their kids there or yourself if you want to learn to defend yourself or simply find balance in your life! I suppose if the review does not get removed and the school doesnt hear from you, then you are a PAPER TIGER sitting behind a computer screen talking out of the side of your head! Seth Johnson whoever you are at least act in one way! I hope you choose to keep your honor and not judge from a video! Thank you very much! Seth Johnson, HONOR RESPECT LOYALTY

I am a professional musician who was studying Wing Chun in Colorado for two years before moving back to Nashville. Upon my arrival to Nashville I was searching for another Wing Chun school to continue my training, but I stumbled upon Shaolin Concepts. It was here that I discovered Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu for the first time and I have really enjoyed my time as a student at the school. This sacred style of Kung Fu is directly connected to the fifth generation grandmaster, Master Gin Foon Mark, one of Bruce Lees instructors. I have found Sifu Stephens to be completely competent and a world class instructor, fully capable of explaining in detail and demonstrating all aspects of the martial art. The school offers several different styles of martial arts, all of which are very effective. The students at the school are very welcoming and friendly. No egos to compete with, just a place to grow among your friends. Shaolin Concepts continually provides a place for me to train and improve my well being. If you are searching for a martial arts school, I highly recommend this place.B.J. Golden

Ive seen the 1-star review by someone who has never set foot in the school. Really???I have seen numerous martial arts styles and, I have to say, Kwai Song Jook Lum is one of the best. It is no-nonsense self-defense. MMA and BJJ may be the most popular right now, and they each have their merits. However, I would feel much better in a street fight (especially with multiple opponents) with Jook Lum. Master Stephens takes his school and his teaching quite seriously, and I never fail to learn something new and useful, whether a new technique or a life lesson.To any who are interested in pure street survival, this school is one of the best you can find. Come in and try it out.

If you are looking for a no excuses, no holds barred martial arts experience then Shaolin Concepts and the principles that Sifu Stephens teaches is the place for you.Sifu Stephens specializes in ensuring that the ancient techniques and ways of living are taught along with proper discipline and respect for the arts themselves. He concentrates on every detail of developing the proper Kung Fu mind, body, and spirit. Being honored as one of a handful of schools teaching 5th Generation Master Gin Foon Marks intricate Kwong Sai Jook Lum, Shaolin Concepts has opened my eyes to a whole new world of self defense and understanding the quickest and most effective way to do so. His philosophy and approach is a breath of fresh air compared to all of the UFC and MMA egotistical mumbo jumbo.Sifu Stephens, Thank you for what you do!

I had been away from martial arts for a few years due to an injury. I was looking to get back into the martial arts scene and saw that Shaolin Concepts provided both Kung Fu and Filipino Martial Arts training. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Nashville has world class martial arts instructors. I am now learning Jook Lum Praying Mantis and Balintawak Escrima, both martial arts that are very hard to find instruction in the United States and in the world. These classes have helped me to get in shape and with self confidence. I highly recommend coming by and checking the classes out.

Martial arts have interested me my entire life, but I just never took the initiative to pursue it. I began searching for a martial arts studio soon after completing my Master’s degree and seeing the need for change in my life when I came across Shaolin Concepts School of Martial Arts in East Nashville, TN. I did quite a bit of research before I called the school, but it was my initial interaction with Master David Stephens, Guro Jerry Teague, and all the members of the kwoon that really sold me on the idea. After the first free session I was convinced this is where I wanted to spend the majority of my free time. I pledged for the initial 30-days and was voted in by the members, which was another selling point for the kwoon. The kwoon is truly a family. Although I have only been with Shaolin Concepts for four months, I couldn’t imagine my life without it and I’m looking forward to the journey that lies ahead of me. It has truly changed my life and has provided me with a way to manage my stress in a healthy manner, as well as provide a workout. I am currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Army stationed at Ft. Campbell, KY, and am happy to make the 62-mile drive 6-days a week to participate in the entire range of martial arts offered at Shaolin Concpets, to include Kenpo Karate, Filipino Martial Arts, Kwong Sai Jook Lum Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu, Ng Family Style Shaolin Kung Fu, and Qi-Gong. It is truly a blessing that I found Shaolin Concepts.

Many might view Karate/Kung Fu as an after school program, but my family and I view Shaolin Concepts School of Martial Arts as a place where Pre-Scholars, Elementary, High School and Adults continue to grow, as well as increase self-esteem, commendable behavior, dignity, respect, self control and self realization. Shaolin Concepts is not just about acquiring a belt rank, the student has to earn their belt ranks with good behavior at school, home, and in the general public, plus maintain good grades for school and doing their chores at home on a daily basis.My son, Joshua, aged 10 years, has been a student at Shaolin Concept for the past 15 months. He has gained knowledge and has grown to love the Karate/Kung Fu Art. He has learned that it is not about fighting but self control, peace, strength and to be able to defend himself in daring situations while respecting others and property. Through Master Stephens’s guidance he has learned to be polite and respect for others, young and old. As a parent, I feel profound happiness when strangers and his school teachers make positive comments about him. This is not just my glory but something, to share with Master Stephens, who has facilitated this Character Development to happen through his teachings.Shaolin Concepts School of Martial Arts is where you are trained to be committed in all you do with Discipline, Self Reliance, and to be a courageous person who can serve others. (Joshuas Mum &Sister)

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