Ben’s Shaolin Kung Fu

I recently joined the adult class and am totally impressed by the Sifu there. Not only was he formally trained at the Shaolin temple as a monk, his mastery of skills is quite impressive! I feel like his traditional style is complemented with a little bit of modern wushu for those who are willing and capable of learning more acrobatic moves. I have been studying kung fu for many years now and can say Sifu Larry is one of the best teachers I have studied under. His patience and kindness is very encouraging to new and older students. Those who are interested in learning martial arts, I highly recommend checking out Sifu Larry’s school in Lake Merritt. It’s great for both children and adults of all ages.

It has been 6 months since my kids started kung fu lessons here and are now privileged to participate at the Yellow Belt level. Ah Yes! This mom is so proud to walk down the street with two girls quite capable of throwing a sharp blow or blocking a chop! I’m exaggerating just a bit… but really, the kids have progressed to learn Kung Fu moves that are as graceful and mesmerizing as choreographed ballet. Master Larry will request the students to perform «Five Motions», the students quickly maneuver a series of throws, blocks, twists and kicks. Under his watchful eye, he will correct the stance or adjust the hands and arms to the proper positions. The key to learning is to watch by example and follow in practice. Communication is in English but exercise counts or mantras are taught to students in Mandarin Chinese. Besides Master Larry, there are several other instructors that rotate between studios, all are trained from China’s legendary Shaolin Temple and highly respected by students and parents alike. The studio is small, intimate and follows the traditional Chinese principals on discipline but the children all are enthusiastic at the start of each lesson (there’s always laughter and trickery between students and master throughout!). No doubt the students will be instilled with a greater appreciation of the culture as well as gain a physical and mental advantage.
I am enchanted and look forward to watching my kids progress to the next level (s). I’d really rather keep this place a secret but here’s a clip of Master Larry’s level of expertise. http;//www.youtube.com/usshaolinkungfu

Great place for kids to learn the discipline of Kung Fu. Masters are Shaolin monks, some with lineage of many generations. Instruction is well structured and taught in a consistent, methodical manner. Students are well challenged but allowed to grow at their appropriate pace. My son attends 3 times a week and enjoys it very much. He has grown in strength, coordination and confidence.

Dedicated Kung Fu masters teach children as young as 3 years old thru young teenagers. They will impress you with their Wu Shu team if you get a chance to see them demonstrate their skills. It’s quite impressive, as it’s like watching the Matrix, but without the ropes. Master Larry spent 6 years at the Shaolin Temple, China, as a Kung Fu Monk. He is great with the kids. In the heart of Chinatown, this is the real deal. Instruction is in English, and it’s authentic! We’ve lived on the East Coast and in San Diego, and moving back here in 8/​07, we had to find something fun and useful for our kids. Parents are as dedicated as the kids, as they watch from their bleachers. Sally the office manager, is very friendly, and will treat you right. Afterwards, you can experience dim sum or «boba» and have a great experience in one of the oldest Chinatowns in the U.S.