As I'm closing in on my first year at the school, I felt it a good time to convey how happy I am to…read morehave joined. The community of students here has been very welcome among both newcomers, veterans, and returners. I gotta start with my teacher, Sifu Philip Wong. It's easy enough to see his credentials, as there are many and well-published. What I did want to capture is how he interacts with the class I'm in. We have a spectrum of students across different ages and martial arts experience levels and he makes sure to get the best out all of us. He finds ways to get us to push ourselves a little more each day and is very present to ensure our forms are correct. And he genuinely cares about his students as people, able to connect with anyone from a variety of backgrounds. The facilities and gear are high-quality and up-to-date. There's plenty of sparring gear for different purposes; whether it's hand-held for punches or kicks, or padded dummies, it's great to have something for every need. And my thanks the top-of-the-line floor mats the school uses can't be expressed enough. As I'm pushing 50, making sure that the mats can provide me traction when we warm up, stability when we strike, and cushion when we practice falls is very important to me. I can feel safe, not worry about injury, and focus on the exercises. And bonus points for the workout playlist that makes me feel like a kid again.

Sifu Zhang is, IMHO, the very best Beijing-style martial artist in the Bay Area. She is extremely…read moreknowledgeable in so many forms of Wushu. But also able to demonstrate correctly and exactly.

This studio offers a contemporary take on a traditional and deadly martial art: "Wing Tsun"…read more If you want to get in shape while learning practical self-defense in the worldwide recognized kung fu style popularized by the recent "Ip Man" movies and originally practiced by Bruce Lee before he created his "Jeet Kune Do" then this is the place for you! Sifu Joseph Mah is a certified practitioner of the International WingTsun Association (IWTA), a comprehensive teaching system developed by Ip Man disciples Leung Ting and Elmond Leung. To truly learn the close-combat art of Wing Tsun requires hands-on application of the system's arsenal of techniques, and that's exactly what you will receive during the many classes offered throughout the week.

One of the best clubs I've ever joined in my life! You don't…read moreneed a background in martial art; Sifu Josep and the rest of the students will patiently guide you during each lesson. It is truly and enjoyable group and community. Each class is going to challenge and engage you, definetely recommend it. Something that I really appreciate is that you get the chance to learn a bit about the history of Wing Tsun, which gives more subject to what you do in each class. Definetely recommend! Lessons last 2 hours and happen around 3 times a week.

I absolutely love Yau Kunk Moon Kung Fu Sport Association and seeing them at events like Chinese…read moreNew Year !!!! There dragons are the absolute BEST ! I can't wait to see them again at another event. I hope to sponsor them for my next event. https://www.kqed.org/news/11976974/crowds-and-dragons-pack-chinatown-for-san-franciscos-chinese-new-year-parade

Yau Kung Moon (YKM) is originally from Hong Kong, but in San Francisco, you can't NOT notice them…read morewhen they are performing on the streets in Chinatown or at the Chinese New Year Parade. YKM sports the Yellow shirt, Yellow pants, red sash and traditional striped red and gold leggings. YKM's students hail from the various family associations around the San Francisco Bay Area. Students learn the Southern Shaolin style martial arts and practice Nam Si Buk Mo lion dance style. I have yet to work with them, but have competed against the YKM students at various martial arts tournaments. Their sportsmanship, friendliness and positive attitude is what attracted me to them. Through mingling at various events, I've made some great friends. YKM is like one of the hidden gems in San Francisco Chinatown along with Leung's White Crane and Hung Sing School.

Both my kids go here and I couldn't be happier. The teachers are really good with kids and Susan is…read morereally responsive. The staff are considerate and they all make and effort to make sure the kids learn the moves properly. With all these good reviews I was afraid they ask people for them, but no one asked me for a review - I'm choosing to leave this because I want to support them.

I had been looking for a kung fu class for my daughter, after a disappointing experience at another…read moreschool. Sifu Cindy took time to speak with me and answered all my questions and concerns before we even did the trials. I was concerned that the classes were short but they were high energy and my daughter left the first class sweating and excited. Fast forward a year and a half later, and my daughter went from whining and saying I hate kung fu to saying she wishes she could go to kung fu every single day. I can see that her confidence has grown in leaps and bounds over the months. She has not only learned discipline and how to do the moves but also how to use her voice. Her movements have gotten stronger and she is eager to learn more and work harder. I could not ask for more patient or nicer instructors in Sifu Cindy, Sifu Alex, and all of the instructors there. They do not let the kids get away with misbehaving but they also do so in a fun and engaging way, which is not easy to do. Their experience and love for the children and the art shows. A well run and professional school that is structured and fun. The kids love it and we are so happy that we found Five Animals!

What the fuck cant go well in this gym? Im a mid 50s MARINE. (We dont say former Marine because…read moreonce MARINE always Marine) . The family atmosphere is what had me hooked. In addition, the beast and savage fighters taking time to teach low level fighters the core basics is nice....they will take you to the side and actually TEACH you while they are prepping for fights. Ive never seen anything like this. Perfecting fighting and and teaching at its finest. Ive been to literal wars...Every single soul in this gym i would welcome as a combat buddy....SEMPER FI....AKA "always faithful"..DRAGON HOUSE...USMC..UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS...fyi..they had me gassed in the warm ups...shout out to everyone

Legit gym with proven results but unforgivable unprofessionalism and predatory billing turned my…read moreexperience into a nightmare. Proceed with caution. I'll start with the truth: Zhong Luo's Dragon House MMA is a legitimate operation. Luo has undeniable credentials in traditional Chinese kung fu, runs a full-scale MMA program, and promotes his own successful fight events (Zhong Luo Cage Fighting Series) that draw serious talent. The gym produces competitive fighters, hosts high-level amateur and pro bouts, and clearly knows how to develop athletes who go on to bigger stages. No question. On paper, this place has credibility and results. But legitimacy doesn't excuse treating a sincere student like absolute shit. And that's exactly what happened to me in 2019. As someone with a profound admiration for Chinese culture and its martial traditions, I train religiously, pushing my physique to exceptional levels of strength. Raw power, disciplined conditioning, unyielding drive. I sought out Dragon House specifically for its authentic Kung Fu roots blended with modern MMA. Under proper guidance, channeling that energy and refining my skills, I could have become a devastating force in that realm; the kind of dedicated fighter any coach would be proud to mold. Instead, I got blatant disrespect and neglect. Luo repeatedly no-showed for scheduled classes; not once, but multiple times. I'd arrive eager to train, only to wait in vain while unsupervised students sparred chaotically around me. Safety was a joke. On my first day alone, one person attempted to eye gouge me during sparring. There was no oversight and no correction, only serious health and safety risks because the so called "Sifu" failed to honor his commitments, and because of racism (the person I was paired with was a racist white man, a grown adult who tried to eye gouge me, a college student). Even if those no-shows were some colossal "misunderstanding" (which I highly doubt), Luo offered zero explanation and zero apology on both occasions. Not a word. Just silence and indifference toward a student who showed up with nothing but respect and hunger to learn. Then came the real kicker: this "legit" gym still billed me whereabouts $1,700 for a full fucking year of training that I never received. When I disputed and blocked the unauthorized charge through my bank (because paying for phantom services is insane) they sent it straight to collections. Harassing me over money for services that were never provided. Unbelievable predatory bullshit from a place that claims to uphold discipline and honor. I'm not denying the gym's successes or Luo's skills. Plenty of people thrive there. But my experience exposes the rotten underbelly: chronic flakiness at the top, zero accountability, and ruthless billing tactics that screw over anyone who falls through the cracks. This isn't bitterness; it's outrage at being dismissed and exploited despite my sincerity. Dragon House has potential and pedigree, which makes the unprofessionalism even more shameful. Strong warning: sign anything here at your own risk. Demand clear terms, track attendance meticulously, and be prepared for zero recourse if things go south. There are other legit gyms out there worth considering instead. As my dear friends in China would say, "可惜你".

I've seen Y.C. Wong in action in the olde days. (1970's) . he did many exhibitions and lion dances…read moreall over chinatown. though his kung fu and mines are slightly different, it was a thrill watching him. i don't know if he is still around. his school still is and at the same location.. hope my sifu doesn't see this. (oh, he can't read english anyways. i always had to translate for him).

Having attended this school for now 2 decades, I have had a long journey on many different phases…read moreof my life. When I was younger Sifu Wong taught me discipline and worked me hard. I spent more time with a focus on fighting and Sifu was there to teach me. As anyone who does martial arts knows, there is point where fighting becomes less important and health takes more importance. Now as I enter my 40's, the studio again is providing me with what I need. The focus at the school is really traditional in the sense that real kung fu is focused is on health. Most have been there many years and it is impressive at the skills and vibrant health they live with. For those who are seeking a studio where if you want to do martial arts just for your health you can, this place is for you. While the combat aspect does happen at they studio, it is not required and only for intermediate to advanced students.

This is the best martial arts school I've ever trained at, and Choy Li Fut kung fu is a superb…read moresystem. The instructors at school are all really good, knowledgeable and helpful. Tai-Sifu Wong is a fantastic teacher to all adults and kids alike. This is also the first martial arts school that my kids are attending, and they absolutely love it. They love the classes, they made a bunch of friends, they go to tournaments and their self confidence is growing constantly over time. No wonder it's been around for over 50 years!

I have been studying Kung Fu in San Diego for many years and have had the opportunity to…read moreparticipate in several seminars and tournaments offered by the Doc-Fai Wong Martial Arts Center. These are simply the best around. The real life practical application of the training combined with the historical ties and proven methods give the training a value unmatched by anyone. I can guarantee you that if I lived closer this would be home base for my training. I encourage anyone to check it out for themselves. You won't be disappointed.

We been there for 9 years. My son love this place and this is best activity ever for a boy!read more

We enrolled our kids here because of the amazing energy, positivity, and fun that the instructors…read moreand Master Chow brought to every class. They truly made this place special. Our kids looked forward to coming, not just to learn, but because they felt encouraged, seen, and inspired. But lately, everything feels so different. There's now only one instructor, and we were never given any farewell notice about the changes. It was honestly heartbreaking not to have any communication. And Sara at the front desk -- she was the best. She made everyone feel welcome and cared for. The vibe that once made this place feel like a second home is just not the same anymore. We're really sad and disappointed. We're now questioning whether we should keep our kids enrolled or move on. It's hard when something that meant so much suddenly changes without any explanation. We truly hope things improve, because this place once meant a lot to our family.

I want to start of by saying that the Instructor, Sifu Jacob Alexander, is an excellent martial…read morearts teacher in every possible way. He thoroughly knows many kung fu systems, as well as Yang Tai Chi, and how to use them. He has trained extensively in MMA, kickboxing, boxing, wrestling, and Silat as well. Jacob can show you real techniques to protect yourself in any situation, even from a crazy, aggressive attacker. I called Jacob just to train in Tai Chi forms. In one lesson, Jacob taught me the first half of a Yang Tai Chi form, and all the fighting applications for it. Just one lesson blew my mind! You can use the techniques from Tai Chi to throw people, put them in joint locks, take out their legs, knock them completely off-balance, and really protect yourself. Traditional Tai Chi can be used for attack and defense, and has amazing body mechanics and ways to use leverage. Most Tai Chi instructors will never show you these applications, unless you have been training with them for years. I also want to mention that Jacob is very honest and real. He puts his ego aside, and just wants to teach real martial arts. Jacob will ask you what you want to learn, and he will put together a program that he feels will benefit you. He will show you real techniques that will work in a real street fight. And he will show you how and why it works. He can show you strategies that will work on any type of fighter, even if they are a skilled boxer, wrestler, jiujitsu practitioner, etc. If you have any questions, he will show you the how and why on the spot! Of course, it is up to you to practice and make the teachings your own. If you want to learn real martial arts and how to use them, train with Sifu Jacob Alexander. Even if you are an experienced martial artist or fighter, he can show you how to take your skills to the next level. I would highly recommend recommend Sifu Jacob Alexander to anyone who wants to learn how to defend themselves.

I want to say something about my teacher, whose name I know in English as Patty Li. I've been…read moretaking the Friday taiji class at the Berkeley YMCA for about a month and a half My name is Rick, and I have neuropathy in my hands and feet, but Patty who I met at the Y suggested that I come to the Friday Taiji class. I use a walker for balance, and sometimes need to lean against the wall so I don't just tumble over But Patty invited me and I came. Since I started the class I have noticed a marked improvement in my balance, my strength and my ability to focus my breath and my attention in my body Patty is an incredible teacher, a master of her arts, who has been doing martial arts, since she was a child in Beijing. I didn't know any of this when she invited me to class. Most people when they see me and my walker write me off as being unable to do things, but Patty didn't see any of that, she just saw another human being with a willingness to learn, I think she's incredibly perceptive person. So I started coming to the class and have only missed once in about two months I've been going to the Y every other day for swimming and some weight training, but Friday has become my favorite day I do the taiji class at 10 AM, and then I follow it up with a swim It was very clear to me from the beginning that Patty is an incredibly disciplined person, but what I really love about her, is her grace, and the humor with which she teaches... in other words she makes it really fun. Regardless of different peoples capability in class, she works with each of us so that we can become stronger, more balanced, and more able to practice this beautiful moving meditative art form She is a treasure, and I am blessed to have her as my teacher, and the YMCA is blessed to have her as part of this community 老师，谢谢 Thank you teacher

Are you a parent looking to encourage your kids (especially Chinese-American kids) to start martial…read morearts? Have cash to spare? Great! Are you an adult who learned some wushu as a child, fell out of practice through your teens, and want to pick it back up as an adult? Try a drop-in class for $35, and then see if you want to continue here. In my case, after two classes, I found another school to practice with. I hesitated leaving a poor review because why bother with all these 5 star reviews stacked against me? But I remember why I use Yelp: to consult legit reviews before I spend money on any establishment. Hence, I feel the need to pen this review, especially if there are fellow adults considering wushu here. That one review that says Wushu West takes adults seriously and caters to them too? Maybe that used to be the case, but from my experience, not anymore. Flashback time! My brother and I were wee elementary students enrolled in Wushu West. I remember enjoying the class. For unknown reasons, my parents stopped enrolling us. However, that experience (along with kung fu class in Chinese school) built the foundations of kung fu stances, kicks, and flexibility that I have carried on to this day. My biggest regret was that I never advanced far enough to work with weapons. Fast-forward to present day. I am a young professional who can do pullups & deadlifts. For several years, I kept eyeing Wushu West through the internet, promising myself I'd go back. Stars aligned, and I made my first visit back with a drop-in class. The class was filled with kids younger than me. Where were the adult students that were said to be attending this class too? For a good half hour, Shifu Patti (mind you, I'm only calling her Shifu out of respect) lead the class through warmups, which frankly feel like a huge waste of time, something that should be done before class starts. It's just jogging, jumping jacks, some kicks, and LOTS of stretching and counting in Chinese. I'm here to learn, not to do warmups that I can do by myself. Even when you're doing wushu exercises (various kicks, spins, stances, etc), Shifu doesn't lead them. It's her kid students leading the exercises. They go so fast, I can't keep up with forms and sequences I'm supposed to maintain and follow, so I flounder along while watching with a mix of admiration for the kids, and frustration that I can't keep up nor am I taught properly on how to keep up. Yes, the cool student leader will stop and walk through it with you a few times at most, but then it's on to the next cool move...that I can't keep up with. Meanwhile, Shifu sits on the sidelines. I came back one more time to see if it was an improvement from the first class. The oldest student I saw here was a man, but everyone else was a kid, with the eldest one maybe in high school. My gripes: 1) Shifu does NOT take into consideration my experience and skill level. I am either doing kiddie exercises or floundering with being unable to keep up with advanced moves. 2) My second visit here, I was assisting moving furniture, when my shin slammed into a wooden part of a furniture. It hurt like a MF-er, to the point that I felt the impact down to my shin bone. I had a deep cut on my shin. Although it clotted quickly, it swelled up to a huge bump. Shifu kept repeating, "It's just skin, you'll be fine," when I told her that I could feel the pain in my bone too. Way to be sensitive. 3. Shifu had me sign a release form after I was hurt. Whenever I sign anything, I take a photo of it on my phone so that I can have the form for my records. Shifu Patti gave me attitude and said, "We don't do that here, you don't need this record." I explained I do this whenever I sign a form. She said, "Why do you need a copy of this record? It's no one's business." Excuse me, this is MY BUSINESS. As a customer, it's my absolute right to take a photo of anything I sign for my records. She gave me major attitude. I really could not believe I had to argue for a copy of my records. 4. When I said bye to her (after she had a conversation with a kid's parents and nicely said bye to them), she wouldn't look at me and then barked that I can't pay drop-in prices anymore, I have to commit to a monthly plan if I wanted to continue here. I simply asked her to remind me of pricing, and she just waved me off, snapping, "You already took a photo, isn't that what you took that for?" Bless San T for his Yelp review from 2013, when he said, and I quote: "when it comes to business and money, she is downright horrible. and cheap...the way you run your business is part of the practice.  And you can't ignore a shady businessperson no matter how great of a teacher they are." I wonder how many other people have left with a bad experience, and just don't want to write Yelp reviews. Maybe my parents took me and my brother out of this class because of their experience with Shifu Patti. I'll never know.