Private instruction tailored to fit the student's goals. This is a good way to polish what's been studied in class, learn a new form on a one-to-one basis, work on techniques and application, or correct problem areas. Students taking private sessions are expected to stretch before the actual session, providing more time for individual instruction. E-Mail to arrange for private sessions

Kung-fu and Tai Chi are very similar in many regards, so similar in fact, that it can be argued that Tai Chi is indeed another form of kung-fu. In any case, Tai Chi Chuan is an offshoot of kung-fu and they are both extremely beneficial to one another. It is recommended that you learn and practice both kung-fu and Tai Chi together as part of a well-balanced regimen, but it is certainly not required. Serious students of kung-fu and/or Tai Chi should definitely supplement their class training with home practice.

For more information regarding these classes or kung-fu/Tai Chi lessons in general, please e-mail us. Those interested in attending an Association seminar - or - if you're interested in hosting one of our seminars for your organization, martial arts school, or special event - click here.

Generally speaking, we are all students, but there are three types of practitioners in kung-fu (including Tai Chi) that are recognized in the Association: the student, disciple and master.

The student is concerned with learning the fundamental physical movements of kung-fu - the basic foundation of communicating with one's physical self.

The disciple has already demonstrated his/her ability and knowledge. At more advanced levels, disciples live the art and show a willingness to perpetuate it in order to help others to healthy, fit and in touch with themselves.

A master not only has become an expert in kung-fu, but has also learned to integrate the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of the art as well as having concern for the well-being and personal growth of the students, disciples, the Association and him/herself.

You don't have to aspire to teach or become a master to reap the full benefits of kung-fu. Kung-fu is designed for all walks of life and should above all, be a fun and rewarding experience for those who study it.

There is no belt or ranking system to recognize the different levels of proficiency between students in the Northern Shaolin/Praying Mantis Kung-Fu Association. Establishing arbitrary student classifications by using belt colors or a similar ranking method is improper in keeping with the true philosophy of classical kung-fu. There is no set length of time for one to become proficient. The time varies with each student's natural abilities, but more importantly, their devotion and consistent practice of the art. Students progress at their own rate according to their personal needs and goals. No student will be categorized, but accepted and treated as an individual.

The curriculum is divided into 12 levels as an outline for instruction and as a guide for students to measure their individual progress. A "Level Evaluation" or test is required by all students before advancing to the next level. All testing is conducted in private by the Chief Instructor and an assistant. Detailed descriptions of each level are shown in the Association Handbook And Curriculum Outline. This guide is available (via the Chief Instructor) to all students and Association members for review at any time before or after class.

All regular students and Association members receive a free copy of the Student Practice Companion, a booklet containing everything a student needs to get started in their study of kung-fu and Tai Chi Chuan, including tips and other important information for proper training and practice. It also features material edited from the Handbook And Curriculum Outline. The Association also produces special Video Reference Guide DVDs - and along with the Student Practice Companion - they are tools designed to help the student in his/her practice outside of the class environment and give basic information on the curriculum taught by the Association. These items are not intended as a replacement or surrogate for actual, qualified instruction.

Beginning students will usually receive the Student Practice Companion after attending their first class. After attending a minimum of 5 consecutive classes, they can obtain a copy of the first Video Reference Guide DVD (which covers Introductory Training and Level I), free of charge. The Student Practice Companion and the first Video Reference Guide DVD are only available to regular students and members of the Association.