I've been training at Wudang Kungfu for the past 3 years so far. If you are looking for a place…read morewhere you can train forms AND application, within the same gym, this is the best place in Seattle to do it. I have explored lots of different martial arts gyms in the greater Seattle area, and lots of them have different things to offer. However, it was difficult to find traditional Chinese gungfu that is rooted in the culture and practice of Chinese martial arts that also teaches real, effective, full contact application. This is the place to do it! Lu Laoshi and Chang Laoshi are both incredibly knowledgeable, but also down to earth and humble. They really know their stuff, through the historical lineage and practice. There are many amazing non-Chinese instructors of the Chinese martial arts, but I personally appreciate that both head instructors are ethnically and culturally Chinese while also being attuned to western culture and the norms of western students. This is not a school with Japanese style belt progression, or a very hierarchical student culture. Both Instructor Lu and Instructor Chang expect students to think critically for themselves, and for the instruction to make sense because it works, not just because "they say so." If you approach it with an open mind, there is much to learn at this school, no matter your training goals. Chang Laoshi has many years fighting in the ring, testing his application skills in ring fighting, to complement his deep understanding of the traditional forms, and Lu Laoshi has a rich knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine in addition to her martial arts practice. Whether you want to learn internal martial arts for demonstration, cultivate qigong, learn about the culture and history of Chinese martial arts, or spar and compete in sanda full contact ring fighting, this is a place where you can do some or all of those things. There are many places in Seattle where you can learn traditional Chinese gungfu, and internal martial arts. There are also many places that will teach you full contact grappling and striking, for muay thai/BJJ/MMA etc. However, if you are trying to learn both of these dimensions of the martial arts and not just one or the other, this is in my opinion the best place in Seattle for it. You can learn forms, qigong, application, open hand, and weapons, all under one roof and with two deeply qualified instructors. There are places that are probably more "affordable" if you are just looking for the cheapest place to train and get a workout, but in this case, I think the expertise and thoroughness of instruction is more than justified, especially considering the generosity of both instructors when it comes to time and answering questions after official class hours.

After attending Wudang academy for over a year I can confidently say that I was in the best shape…read moreof my life! My flexibility dramatically improved but also overall body connection/fitness. The chronic pain in my knee completely resolved. If you want to live a long, happy, and healthy life this is the secret! They have many different classes/styles of martial arts that can be practiced, and the masters are amazing at helping you choose the best style to fit your goals. If I had more time I would study as many styles as possible. During my time there I practiced Baguzahang (Circular Boxing), Taijiquan (Tai Chi), and Qigong. A memory that particularly stands out to me was a student who had come from New York just to study at the academy. He told me that he originally heard about it after climbing the Wudang mountain in China looking for a master to train him in the original Wudang Sword Style. He was able to find a master, but the man told him to come to Seattle, WA and study at Wudang academy. This demonstrates the authenticity to their teachings which draw direct lineage to the old masters of Chinese Kung Fu. I originally attended the academy several years ago, before my life became extremely busy and I moved to Chicago. I plan to move back to the area some day and Wudang academy is at the top of my list for activities to prioritize. If I have kids someday, I plan on taking them to the academy. I hope that in the future I will be able to make time to attend again. If my review piques your interest, please attend, and learn more in person. I am a humble student and am no doubt not fully representing the amazing nature of this academy so please go check it out for yourself! -Steven

Best womens self defense class in Seattle. How to not get in a situation where you need to use…read moreviolence to resolve the situation, basic strikes, where to strike and some basic grab escapes.

I just took their Women's Self Defense class and I really enjoyed it. I left the class feeling more…read moreconfident and informed about not only how to avoid attacks but also how to handle myself in a bad situation. Women should be aware of the basic self defense techniques and this class is the best way to start on this path. It's truly a great class because it's hands on, realistic self defense course that practice through common scenarios like wrist grabs, hair pulls, chokes, etc. The class focuses on physical techniques you can use to break free of an attacker and escaping. It is not about overtaking your attacker, but getting away and running to safety. You will learn and practice simple self defense techniques that don't require exceptional strength but will get you out of any situation. I now encourage all women I know to take this class as it is not only a very useful class but also a fun class.

I am very impressed with the quality of the Kung Fu classes here. They offer a variety of classes…read morefor different skill levels for children and adults. My daughter truly enjoys the classes. I feel good knowing she is doing something to stay active. Sifu Chon is a great instructor and is amazing with the kids. It is pretty neat to see how much the children look up to him. He does an amazing job. I would highly recommend joining if you or your kids are interested.

I've taken Nia (dance fitness) classes here on Saturdays at 10am. It's a lovely space to dance in,…read moreand Mollia & Tai are really fun teachers! https://nianow.com/molliajensen

Simply an amazing experience. i'm tired, I have a giant bruise on my wrist, and I have not stopped…read moresmiling all day. This review is for the self-defense 101 class. class began with rules that instantly made me feel comfortable. Rules letting us know that anything we feel is OK, if we ever need to stop or don't want to participate in something, it's fine, things like that. Very comforting. we are then taught everything from how to use our voice to how to use our bodies. We are taught that we are allowed to trust our instinct and respond however we feel necessary to defend ourselves. We are taught ways to get away from people, ways to defend ourselves by hurting the other person if needed, and everything in between For me I must say that there was one clear highlight... After not even 90 minutes, we got to break boards! I I mean, how bad ass is that? Let me tell you something... It felt like the most bad ass thing I've done in a long time and I've been watching the video over and over again and smiling. I want to do this class again and again and I encourage anybody and everybody to go to Quantum

Although this place has moved down the street, the attitude has not. Quantum is a fantastic style…read morethat every serious martial artist should consider as well as anyone with an interest in what martial arts can teach you. Classes are intense with a heavy focus on improving strength, balance, flexibility, and technique (order varying depending on the class). The overall style promotes the importance of combining basic and advanced techniques into practical application with intense sparring classes designed to improve your own creative thought process while under duress. Most importantly, the Quantum community is very inclusive with an outward focus on inclusivity for LGBT people. Belt tests, work days, and community events are organized and performed by the student body for the betterment of all in the group. Definitely a great place to make some great friends. If you are new to martial arts or are looking for a great way to get in shape I recommend it. If you have studied Tae Kwon Do or Kung Fu and would like to continue your training in Seattle, I also recommend Quantum.

Just got done with a great capoeira class at the Rainier Community Center. Instructor Peretico…read morereally knows his stuff, and knows how to teach it too! When I didn't get how to connect a movement, Peretico took the time to explain a couple of different approaches until I got it down! The class environment is engaging and everyone is welcoming. I could tell that Peretico really cares about creating well-rounded capoeiristas, music, movement, and history. I highly recommend this class. I'm going back next week!

From the owner: Come try Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art that will give you one of the best workouts you…read morecan find! Everyone is welcome, no matter what physical shape you are in. Stop by and learn balance, strength, flexibility, stamina, and culture.

This is the real deal, folks. This is what you thought Martial Arts was all about until you…read moreenrolled in that *other* dojo, just to find yourself waving your arms around and grunting something in Japanese, Korean, or Chinese. How's that supposed to help you in the real world? When you receive your Black Belt from Sensei Lewis, after training in the excellent "GCL Karate" method, you will ready for ANY real world challenge. You will not fear any person on the street. You will be in the best shape of your life. Most importantly, you will have an unshakable inner peace from the mastery of your body/mind.

From the owner: We teach real-world self-defense and functional fitness to people from all walks of life.read more

OMFG! If you're looking for a great kickboxing gym this is it. Alex, Sarah, and everyone I have…read moretrained with have been AH-MAZING! They offer other fitness classes like karate. They also do youth as well as adults. This is my dojo now!

Great karate classes for kiddos. My son has been going for 2 years and loves it. He engages with…read morenot only the physical lessons but also the mental discipline. The dojo has a little bit of monthly homework to drive home the values they talk about a bit in the classes- and he has really engaged with it and grown from it. Overall hes loved it and we have loved it. And the monthly parents night out on Fridays are just a wonderful bonus. Cannot recommend highly enough.

First and foremost, this place is VERY inclusive of trans, queer, and non-binary students! I know…read morethe name says "women's," but go to their website and read their gender policy, there is most likely a place for you if you aren't a cis male. Second, they are super accepting of low-income students! They never turn people down for scholarships or inability to pay, and they offer work-study opportunities. They also offer childcare while training!!! I did a Try-A-Class night back in November 2017, when I was feeling out-of-shape and emotionally overwhelmed by the state of the world. I needed something that would combine physical activity with mental/spiritual growth, in a non-judgmental environment. I loved it so much, I decided to sign up for the Beginner's Cycle (a month-long training series) in January 2018, and I have been training there ever since. When I first started, I was in a rut working at a dead-end job and lacked the confidence to move on to something better. Within 7 months, I had scored my dream job. Coincidence? I don't think so... training here really will boost your motivation and self-esteem. They offer a lot of opportunity to belong to a community that at times feels like a family, but there's also no pressure to get involved outside of attending classes. And no previous martial arts experience is required!

Seven Star Women's Kung Fu is a great place to make new friends, get/stay in shape, and learn life…read morelong skills. I've never been the athletic type, but I still enjoy both the physical and mental challenge of kajukenbo/kung fu. Everyone is incredibly supportive and it great to train with such a diverse group of women. Seven Star also offers scholarships and free child care and is 100% for women by women.

Been here since 2022. The senseis are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Definitely a great place…read moreto train.

This is the first Judo dojo in North America over 100 years old established between 1902-1904 & the…read moreoldest martial art school in Seattle & Washington http://www.michionline.org/fall00/page14.html . Kodokan Judo is taught here. Bruce Lee learned his throwing & grappling here in exchange for kung fu lessons http://www.michionline.org/fall00/page24.html. Jigoro Kano, founder of Judo, visited Seattle Dojo. Judo is a Japanese martial art consisting of throwing, grappling, & submissions, which has been an Olympic sport since 1964 and is the pre-cursor to Brazilian Jiujitsu. Only $25/month for Adults (Seniors), $20/month for Kids (Juniors). Classes: Monday & Thursday. Juniors 7-8:30Pm, Seniors 8:30pm-10pm. You may participate in both sessions at no additional charge. All the instructors are volunteer & this is one of the few judo dojos that owns a built for Judo dojo featuring Swain mats. 1990 Goodwill Games judoka athletes trained here. Great for kids & they will learn ukemi (break falls) - how to fall and not hurt themselves be it skiing, snowboarding, or riding a bike.

I attended the RetroFit classes at GymSmithy for about 10 months. I then moved away from Seattle,…read moreand GymSmithy is one of the places I miss most. The Retrofit class is great - in my case, it was the perfect regimen to build up a baseline of strength after coming out of a fairly sedentary period in my life. Travis, the owner, cultivates an energetic, welcoming, disciplined environment. You'll quickly see that the classes are full of regulars - folks stick with GymSmithy because it's a supportive and effective setting that really feels like a community. I joined with the goal of establishing a physical exercise routine, which I did, but ultimately kept coming because of the profound positive effect the classes and community had on my mental health. If you leave nearby in Seattle and are looking for a place to invest in both your body and mind, I'd highly recommend GymSmithy.

I attend the Retrofit classes at GymSmithy. The classes are high intensity interval training, about…read more12 exercises per round, 1 minute each, 3 rounds in total. This is hands down the best use of my time and money for fitness classes. Each day's workout works the entire body in a balanced way and provides fitness that builds rather than destroys one's body. The exercises are structured so that you can choose your intensity; there is never pressure to do more than you can safely do. I can feel confident that after a Retrofit class I am stronger and less prone to injury in my normal life. There is no body shaming or pressure to look a certain way. The pricing is great, and there's no hidden fees or confusing contracts. No annual fee, processing fee, initiation fees, or equipment fees like big box gyms charge. Here you pay for the class, you take the class. The owner, Travis, gives great personal attention and feedback during classes, and keeps things entertaining so classes are fun instead of a chore. After working out at GymSmithy I'm always looking forward to my next opportunity to come back.