GENERAL ASSESSMENT Our overall assessment is that Shaolin…read moreInstitute does an amazingly successful job fulfilling its promise as a learning experience for both the body and mind. As we have so far experienced it, Shaolin Institute indeed teaches a "way of life" in which students can experience gratifying physical achievement, whether in Tai Chi or Kung Fu, while also exercising and expanding mindfulness. One of the most appealing aspects of Shaolin Institute is the frequent reference before and after classes regarding how specific cultural, historical, medical, and scientific achievements are directly relevant for learning and appreciating martial arts. TEACHING ASSESSMENT It is impressive that Shaolin Institute exceeds expectations in basically every category used to evaluate teachers. Below are our summaries of Shaolin Institute's multifaceted teaching strengths. CURRICULUM * SI teachers follow the SI curriculum. * SI teachers choose activities for each student relevant to the SI curriculum and each student's level of achievement. * When feasible, SI teachers sometimes helpfully group students together to learn and practice as a group the forms they have previously learned. INSTRUCTION * SI teachers provide direction so that each student knows what to focus on during class. * SI teachers present new forms clearly and logically, and helpfully demonstrate new forms. * SI teachers provide feedback and re-teach forms when necessary. Teachers provide opportunities for students to practice new forms both with and without supervision. MOTIVATION * SI teachers show genuine concern for the students. * SI teachers project a positive, encouraging tone for the classroom experience. * SI teachers establish a level of difficulty, suited for each student's level, which encourages success. SI teachers provide good verbal praise, as well as critique as needed. COMMUNICATION * SI teachers always demonstrate enthusiasm in what they are teaching. * SI teachers explain and demonstrate forms clearly. * SI teachers respond graciously and substantively to questions. EXPECTATIONS * SI teachers communicate expectations to students. * SI teachers listen to students' feedback during class and adjust their teaching pace and content accordingly. * SI teachers encourage students to participate inextracurricular community opportunities, which isimportant for the students' confidence as well as the school's exposure. METHODOLOGY & MATERIALS * SI teachers often vary how they conduct classes, for example by describing the forms, including their origins, applications, etc., and/or by physically demonstrating the forms. Both methods are helpful, especially for students who learn in different ways. * SI teachers sometimes provide supplemental resources, such as video recordings of the classes, which can be exceptionally helpful for students who want to practice at home. EVALUATIVE ACTIVITIES * SI teachers monitor and give feedback on student progressduring each individual class. * SI teachers give oral evaluative comments, as well as sometimes grades or scores. * SI teachers are available for and sometimes proactively create opportunities for one-on-one progress discussions with students. CLASS ENVIRONMENT * SI teachers clearly communicate requirements for attitude and behavior, notably by emphasizing the SI student creed and the rituals of class beginnings and endings. TEACHER-STUDENT INTERACTIONS * SI teachers make an effort to know each student as an individual. * SI teachers routinely work to promote positive self-image in students. * SI teachers routinely create a classroom climate in which students are encouraged to grow and assume personal responsibility for their growth. LEADERSHIP BEHAVIOR * SI teachers are observed routinely cooperating graciously with their teaching peers, demonstrating authentic respect for one another. * SI teachers are often observed sharing ideas and methods with their fellow teachers. * SI teachers are observed regularly seeking to advance their own growth. This continuing education, observed by the students, is motivating to the students and demonstrates how we are all learning and growing.

I went to China with Shivu in 1993. We trained at the Shaolin Temple. He is the real deal. We still…read morestay in touch 30 years later!

I started taking classes with Prof. Szondi in the spring of 2016; it is now one of the highlights…read moreof my week. I just had a bone density test and discovered that I am no longer listed as having osteoporosis, but have improved to having osteopenia! I attribute the change to practicing ChenTaichi for the last four years and for that reason alone, I would continue practicing at home as well as taking classes. Other benefits I've experienced involve my metabolism. Being a very lazy person who hates exercising, I am thrilled that by just practicing TC, I am speeding up my metabolism...and that's a wonderful thing since I love eating. By the way, I find that this was the fastest way to tone legs and buttocks..for me it was just a matter of 3-4 classes before I saw results! Prof. Szondi is the 20th century representative of the Chen family of Chenjiaguo, the originators of Taiji. What he teaches is exactly what is sanctioned by his teacher, Grandmaster Zhu Tiancai, 19th generation of the Chen family. These are not instructors who are certified on a weekend or even in one year, but life-long practitioners who are dedicated to their art, and to the principles of Yin and Yang. I just attended one of Prof. Szondi's workshops geared for new students or would-be-students. I am no longer a 'new' student, but his workshops are always intense and I am still amazed at the complexity of this art. Try to catch one of Prof. Szondi's workshops, and I will see you there! He is on Facebook...search for Florin D. Szondi.

From the owner: USA Chen Taiji Center provides classes for all category of age and experience. These classes are:…read moreTraditional Taiji(Taichi) Chen and Yang style classes; Wushu-Kung Fu classes; Self Defense classes; Group Fitness Classes; Fitness Private Programs.

I was training here for about 2-3 years and loved it. If you're serious about martial arts and…read morelike the idea of training in several different styles, this is the best place in the area. Sifu Alan is an intelligent, supportive, and skilled instructor. His staff are qualified professionals, and their kid programs are great without interfering with the adult classes. They have a super flexible schedule and several different levels of membership. Some might quibble that they're pricey, but you are getting what you pay for. The facility is gorgeous, and everyone there is very positive. I know I sound like a bit of a tool for saying this, but you really do get a sense of belonging while being active there. I'd encourage you to try a demo class of each of the different styles. My favorites were Jeet Kun Do and Kung Fu. As a side note, they are one of the only places in the country to teach the Keysi Fighting Method, and if you are looking for realistic combat training against multiple opponents, this is your best bet.

AMAC is more than a place to learn martial arts; it is a new found family. As a "newb" to the world…read moreof martial arts I was very intimidated to sign up, however. Let me assure you these guys and gals welcome you with open arms. I have met some of the nicest and knowledgeable people at AMAC. If you have a question, they have an answer. Any time a student is having a hard time understanding or performing, they go out of their way to assist until you have eliminated your weakness. I personally love the fact that the staff, including Sifu, will take the time to call and check on you if you have been missing class. They really do care and this is what it takes for a leader to ensure your success. AMAC truly is an ego-free environment providing the best martial arts training. If you are willing to apply yourself, you are guaranteed to succeed and the staff/senior students will make sure you do no matter what it takes. I can personally recall multiple times that I have been training and senior students drop everything they are doing in order to correct my flaws. I feel honored to be a part of AMAC.

I was fortunate to find this school more than 5 years ago. I started Tai Chi to improve my balance,…read morewhich was only the start of the benefits I have received. I am physically and mentally stronger and look forward to enjoying many more years at the school as I end my 50s and start my 60s. Under the Internal Arts system, the academy offers Tai Chi, QiQong, and several others in a structured curriculum that facilitates progression and at the same time allows the student to move at their own speed. This is the real deal. The owner, Master Mike Reid, is excellent and has owned and operated this school for many years. His superb teaching ability and sense of humor make you want to keep coming back. The other teachers (of which I am one) have been studying for at least 5 years and are passionate in helping students progress in their personal journey even as we continue our own. Besides teaching Tai Chi and Kung Fu, Krav Maga and kids Karate are also available onsite. Several students take more than one type of class.

From the owner: We are the Academy of Qigong & Internal Studies or AQIS. We are offering classes to new students of…read moreall age groups including youth and adult programs. Self Defense Classes Tai Chi Kung Fu Silat Please visit our website or call today to sign up for a class and to check out our current schedule of classes.

I've been training at Chien Hong for a year now and have plans to be there for quite a while. I'm…read moreone of those who gets hopelessly bored at the gym, and elementary gym class flashbacks pretty much prevent me from ever going out for any team sport, ever, so martial arts is one of the few ways I can happily get a workout in. (Funny how the idea of a punch to the gut is way less frightening than the thought of hanging out in a baseball dugout, but apparently someone read way too much into Lord of the Flies as a child.) The school is run by Shi Fu Gary Mitchell, who has been training in kung fu for 20+ years. He offers traditional Hung Gar kung fu (for adults and for kids) as well as Tai Chi Chuan and self-defense, and there will also be a new Wing Chun class this fall. No matter the style, though, Shi Fu tailors the material depending on who is attending and what their level is. So, no two classes are the same: you may see elements of boot camp, shadow boxing, light sparring, etc., or you might focus on particular techniques (hand strikes, blocks, kicks, and so on). There is also a specific curriculum you have to know for your level, so you're always learning new things and finding ways to improve upon what you already know. Shi Fu is undoubtedly devoted to the art, so he has has high expectations for his students and is continually motivating us to give it our all. There's an awesome community at Chien Hong. The training brothers and sisters are super supportive and friendly, and they're always happy to answer questions and help you practice. Also, the school participates and performs in lots of activities around Atlanta--Chinese New Year and parades, notably--so that's pretty darn nifty to show off to your friends and family.

I contacted Shifu Mitchell to perform a dragon dance at my daughter's first birthday. We really…read morewanted something different but exciting for our guests as well as leave a lasting impression - and Chien Hong delivered! There team of 4 (1 drummer, 1 cymbal and 2 dancers) were very professional. They arrived on time and even brought 2 sets of dragons for us to decide between: a vivid blue and a red. Based on their suggestion, we went with the blue since it would probably not frighten the young children and I am so happy, the dragon photographed beautifully! I cannot say enough great things about Shifu Mitchell and his team. They helped make our event so memborable!