Austin, TX Beginner, What's the best way to start?

[jstreet]

Greetings All,
Thanks for the great site! I have been reading through this site, the yellow pages and internet specific sites and I have narrowed a list of schools I am interested in learning more about. I am a big UFC fan and I am leaning toward a school that offers cross training as I see the benefit of learning multiple styles would help in a real world situation. It seems based on what I am looking for either Krav Maga or Wing Chun Kung Fu is going to be the way to go. I am open to any other ideas or forms but these two seem to be regarded as quick to learn and real world effective. Believe it or not I have not been able to find a school in Austin that teaches Wing Chun, although there is a Wing Tsun academy. I have read they are simimilar in many ways but most people prefer Wing Chun. I am 35 years old, I am in Real Estate and I weigh between 260-280 pounds depending on how dedicated I am to my Gold's Gym work out routine. I am also interested in Jeet Kune Do. There are so many styles that interest me that it is proving to be very difficult to make my decision. Living in Austin, TX I have the good problem of having several schools to choose from. No matter which style I choose I think the most important thing is selecting the best instructor possible. The better the teacher the more you get out of the training. I may be relocating to the west coast in the next few years so Krav Maga and Wing Chun sound good because they are effective and quick to learn compared to other styles. But still, I am seeking the best instructor possible so this is proving to be a difficult process. After reading this forum it seems as if TKD and Black Belt Academies are the least street effective arts and are more for point fighting so I have not looked in to any of those schools, although several of them are highly regarded here. I am not concerned about cost, but I do not want to be ripped off. So any general advice you can offer is greatly appreciated. If anyone has Central Texas/Austin/Round Rock information that is also greatly appreciated. On to the links.

1. http://www.fitandfearless.com/

Krav Maga taught by real MMA fighters with cross training available on site. I love what they offer but horrible location for me. Traffic is bad and school is clear across town from where I live.

2. http://www.selfdefensetexas.com/

Krav Maga close to my home. Instructor has a great back ground, but the S.Austin location offers the mixed class schdule. Tough to decide between these two.

3. http://www.rrma.net/

Very close to my house, not sure about the styles they teach. I am still going to check it out.

4. http://www.centerofmartialarts.com/

Great school with lots of different styles under one roof, location is ok, haven't updated their site since 2003?

5. http://www.blankenshipmartialarts.com/

50 years experience,30 years in Austin several styles under one roof, seems like an Academy type school. Not sure if I want that. Impressive credentials. Probably a very large school.

6. http://www.austinwt.com/index.php

Wing Tsun Kung Fu, can't find Wing Chun in Austin.

7. http://www.usakfa.com/main_sub.html?src=overture

Different Style of Kung Fu

8. http://www.masteryi.com/

Sounds VERY intersting. This is a South Korean martial art similar ( I think) to Krav Maga. It is taught to all of the S.Korean special forces that guard the wall between N. and S. Korea. This is a very highly regarded school and his credentials are incedible, but I have never heard of Tukoong Moosul.

9. http://www.spiritwarriors.com/

Sounds very interesting. The Bujinkan (BOO-jin-Kahn) Dojo is the collective name for the nine remaining systems of the authentic Ninja. They only take students 18 and up. Does this mean they are a more difficult style to learn or is this an art for adults only?

10. http://www.texaskungfu.com/

Kung-Fu close to home.

11. http://www.swshaolin.com/

Kung-Fu across town, still no Wing Chun>?

12. http://www.austinjj.com/

Gracie jj here in Austin, way on the other side of town, but it is a Gracie school so I want to check it out. They offer cross training.

13. http://www.kimsoo-austin.com/

Many different styles! Way across town.

14. http://www.austinkenpokarate.com/
http://www.kenpo-texas.com/index1.html

I don't think I want to take Karate, but the first school cross trains in Kung Fu and I wanted to give the Karate experts a chance to give their two cents.

15. http://www.sijo.org/index.htm

Not sure about this, wanted to see if anyone has heard of this guy.

16. http://www.eastwindtraininghall.com/index.html

Kung Fu, Mantis, sounds interesting. Works perfect with my work schedule.

17. http://appliedkungfu.com/brice/my3.nsf/allbytitle/Home%20Page?OpenDocument

Not sure about this one, any advice is appreciated.

Well that's the list. Now I want to narrow it down, start observing classes and get started. I left off several TKD,ATA, Karate schools so anyone that has any info on schools other than what I have listed feel free to chime in. I am mainly interested in Kung Fu, so please feel free to offer any advice on how to get started, and what to look for.

I am trying to be as open minded about this as I can possibly be.

I am looking forward to all of your comments,suggestions and advice.
Best Regards,
Jon

[Water Dragon]

Bro, you're in Austin. Go train with John Wang's guys.

[yutyeesam]

http://www.austinkungfuacademy.com

That's my school, feel free to get in touch!

My recommendation is to get a foundation first before thinking about crosstraining. You should learn the proper body mechanics of how to maximize your body's power in the most efficient way, and develop a really solid structural balance.

The people who I find are the most skilled martial athletes are the ones who've developed a really strong foundation in an art, and then expand after that.

If you're going to the West Coast eventually, you could train with my master (Tat Mau Wong, http://www.tatwong.com ), who regularly trains full contact fighters.

[jstreet]

Bro, you're in Austin. Go train with John Wang's guys.

???? Which school?

[jstreet]

http://www.austinkungfuacademy.com

That's my school, feel free to get in touch!

My recommendation is to get a foundation first before thinking about crosstraining. You should learn the proper body mechanics of how to maximize your body's power in the most efficient way, and develop a really solid structural balance.

The people who I find are the most skilled martial athletes are the ones who've developed a really strong foundation in an art, and then expand after that.

If you're going to the West Coast eventually, you could train with my master (Tat Mau Wong, http://www.tatwong.com ), who regularly trains full contact fighters.

I will check them out tomorrow. Thanks.

[jstreet]

How does Choy Lay Fut differ from Wing Chun? Cliff note response is fine, I am sure its' on the site somewhere.

[D-FENS]

What Water Dragon said. :cool:

www.combatshuaichiao.com

[chud]

Believe it or not I have not been able to find a school in Austin that teaches Wing Chun, although there is a Wing Tsun academy.

Wing Tsun is Wing Chun; it is sometimes called "WT Wing Chun" also. There are different Wing Chun masters and Master Leung Ting spells his art "Wing Tsun" to differentiate it from other teachers. Several years ago his senior student in the US (Sifu Emin Boztepe) split off and started his own school, giving his Wing Chun the name "Wing Tzun" to set himself apart also. I believe he has a school in Austin, a quick web search turned up this: http://www.awtk.us/

I no longer train Wing Chun (I train the internal arts (http://shenmentao.com/forum/) now), but in the past I attended seminars with both Grandmaster Leung Ting and Sifu Emin Boztepe, and they are both very good. I would check out both WT schools and see which group you feel more comfortable with.

Btw, Boztepe has been discussed before on this forum, here is an old thread if you want to read more about the politics: http://forum.kungfumagazine.com/forum/showthread.php?t=38077

Oh, and one last thing: there used to be a guy in Austin named Ray Parra who taught Jeet Kune Do, I studied with him very briefly, before I moved. If he's still around, check him out.

[Pork Chop]

Here's a much more extensive list:

http://www.txmma.com/modules.php?name=Web_Links&l_op=viewlink&cid=7

I'm leary of muay thai taught at mma gyms (bad experience), unless it's a separate program with a separate instructor.

My own advice is to join a boxing gym (they tend to be real cheap) and then take one day a week to take a free class at as many different spots as is convenient so you can make an educated decision.

[SanHeChuan]

If you want the UFC thing go with BJJ, Boxing and Muay Thai...Boring ;) :p

I'd stay away from any school that teaching more that 2 styles unless they have separate instructors for each art.

I'd also stay away from any Korean art, I just have a bad taste for them.

Krav Maga is not really used for ring sport. Neither is wing chun. Both are good arts though. Their are no quick fixes in the Martial arts so learning quick may get you started but you have to keep training for the rest of your life to maintain your skill.

If you want kung fu, and you do realize you are on a kung fu Site?

I'd go with one of these

www.combatshuaichiao.com Shuai chiao
Mostly a throwing art, getting your opponent off their feet and hitting him with the ground.
http://www.austinkungfuacademy.comhttp:// Choy li fut and Tai chi
Choy li fut has a huge curriculum with 100's of forms, using sweeping punches to generate extra power through centrifugal force.
www.eastwindtraininghall.com/index.html Northern shaolin tiger
UNK family style, teaches the 7 animal styles of Northern style kung fu. Tiger, crane, leopard, snake, dragon, mantis, monkey. My dad was a junior student to with this instructor, and my dad has good kung fu so...
http://usakfa.com/main_sub.html Mantis

Out of time, GTG.

[yutyeesam]

http://www.austinkungfuacademy.com Choy li fut and Tai chi
Choy li fut has a huge curriculum with 100's of forms, using sweaping punches to generate extra power through cintrifical force.


Very true about the extra power generation. Our particular lineage doesn't have hundreds of forms, actually. In fact, the first year of our training is spent a lot more on developing a foundation of power generation, footwork, position accuracy/reflexes, and joint locking, with very very minimal emphasis on learning forms.

My personal opinion is that people need to be mentally ready to take on Choy Lay Fut forms (or full contact sparring for that matter), so I don't expose the forms world to beginner right away, as it is usually daunting, and the source of attrition (so is sparring too hard too soon). I give our combat vocabulary first as a foundation. Then later on, we move more towards the route of forms and full contact sparring.

-123

[chud]

www.eastwindtraininghall.com/index.html Northern shaolin tiger
UNk family style, teaches the 7 animal styles of Northern style kung fu. Tiger, crane, leopard, snake, dragon, mantis, monkey. My dad was a junior student to with this instructor, and my dad has good kung fu so...


I have always been intrigued by this school, I think they used to be here in San Antonio but then moved up to Austin. I wish I had studied with them before they moved...

[The Willow Sword]

You will learn a whole lot of nothing.

I'd go on the John Wang reccomendation. Met him once a long time ago, very solid, decent teacher. As for UFC stuff? dont waste your time with all that. You will make more money in real estate than you will in UFC. (your face will look better as well;)

As Always,TWS

[SanHeChuan]

chud,

I know for a fact that It was in San Antonio at one point, Before Sifu Don took over the school. Back then "Master" Li (Don's instructor) was teaching, who I've always known as "Fred". When I was born in 80 my father, mother, and sister where in the class. What happened after that I don't know.

yutyeesam,

That sounds like a good approach. How many forms are in your lineage? I've always thought of choy li fut as having the largest curriculum next to shaolin-do :rolleyes:

[jstreet]

Thanks for all of the responses.

www.eastwindtraininghall.com/index.html Northern

This works perfectly with my work schedule.


http://www.awtk.us/
I would love to check this out, but it will not work with my schedule at all.



http://www.austinkungfuacademy.com
Sounds good, not sure if it will work with my schedule just yet.

http://www.usakfa.com/main_sub.html?src=overture
Sounds good, but it is 100 per month and I can only go one day per week because my hours are 10-7 and Thursday-Friday are my days off. Very few schools teach on Friday in Austin.

Thanks for all of the help, keep it coming.

[jstreet]

You will learn a whole lot of nothing.

I'd go on the John Wang reccomendation. Met him once a long time ago, very solid, decent teacher. As for UFC stuff? dont waste your time with all that. You will make more money in real estate than you will in UFC. (your face will look better as well;)

As Always,TWS

I like the UFC, but I am 35 and not in the best shape so I do not want to be a pro fighter. :D SD you mean Shaolin Do Kung Fu? I have been seeking advice on many different forums and it seems everyone has something negative to say about them so I have stayed away. They say they are Kung-Fu but it looks like Karate classes? I have however been referred to this guy.........

http://www.austinkenpokarate.com/

This says it is a mix of Chinese Karate?????? A teacher at another Kenpo school recommended him to me because I can go 2-3 days per week because he offers classes on my days off, which is proving to be the most difficult thing for me to find. 90% of schools in Austin are closed on Friday. The guy who referred me has no business affiliation with him at all. Anyone have any thoughts on Chinese Karate?


http://www.austinwt.com/index.php

This one works very well with my schedule and is a Wing Tsun school. I am meeting with them Friday. I am going to visit at least 5 or 6 schools before I decide.

[Water Dragon]

Check out a boxing gym, a BJJ school, and some Muay Thai too. I still strongly reccomend the Shuai Chiao, and the current instructor there, Paul Gerald has a Wing Chun background.

Define your goals, write them down, do not mention style, and go check out a lot of places and see who will fulfill those goals. Learn whatever it is that they are teaching. That's the best advice I can give you.

[bustr]

jstreet

I've heard good things about Kim Soo. The training is fairly tough and street oriented according to some people who knew him when he taught in Beaumont.

Watch out for anyone who thinks their style is superior or complete. No style is.

Any good martial artist has probably done some cross training and incorporated it into something that feels safe to them. So if an instructor cross trains then he'll likely have resources beyond his own art and will be understanding if you want to explore other arts.

This might be worth a look

http://www.enshin-karate-texas.com/

You could also email the webmasters of these sites and ask for advice. These guys are all proven in old school blood-n-guts tournaments.

http://www.jackhwang.com

http://www.roninjutsu.com/

http://www.joelewisfightingsystems.com/

For more classic Kung Fu I'd ask Tye Botting. I don't know him personally. I met another student of Mr Wang and Mr Cheng and he spoke highly of Mr Botting.

http://www.kungfu.cc/phpBB2/index.php

Also I've heard good things about Mr Canna and Mr Mattson here. They might offer some advice.

http://forums.uechi-ryu.com/index.php

And of course you probably can't go wrong with a Gracie or Machado school.

[kwaichang]

Boy, Willow Sword you have to be one of the most Bitter people and unforgiving that I have ever met. I am not trying to demean you but get over it KC:confused:

[kwaichang]

Go watch the advanced classes at the SD school I think you will chang your mind KC

[Mr Punch]

Shuai Chiao! You've had your answer! Now go! :D

I'd do Shuai Chiao. In fact I'd jump at the chance. It seems like a very solid no-messing art, and I've seen and heard nothing but good from that particular school and lineage from the guys on here. Most of them seem like nice guys, not too dogmatic, but confident in what they're doing and good at explaning things clearly without the BS... so if those people are reps of that school: it's all you need for the throwing aspect.

At your weight it'll probably be harder on you, so you may want to see how it goes before you start anything else.

Then a good stand-up or ground art. There's only one ground art for you really, and personally, as you're going to be pushed for time with the SC, I'd sacrifice the BJJ for any solid stand-up. Thai if you think you've got the legs for it, but at your weight maybe boxing would be better: dunno how limber you are. The Chun should be fine if they do sparring... not necessarily for absolute beginners, but certainly not too far in and with gear. Ditto the CLF.

[chud]

chud,

I know for a fact that It was in San Antonio at one point, Before Sifu Don took over the school. Back then "Master" Li (Don's instructor) was teaching, who I've always known as "Fred". When I was born in 80 my father, mother, and sister where in the class. What happened after that I don't know.



SanHeChuan: wow, that's really great that your whole family did kung fu together. Btw just curious, do you know if anyone from that school still lives in San Antonio? Or did all the instructors move up to Austin?

[yutyeesam]

yutyeesam,

That sounds like a good approach. How many forms are in your lineage? I've always thought of choy li fut as having the largest curriculum next to shaolin-do :rolleyes:

I think our lineage has maybe 60-70 forms. I know probably all of 20. Of those I probably only practice 10. Of the 10, I pretty much teach 5. And in the first year of training, I'll only teach 1. The forms basically start becoming rearrangements of the same techniques & concepts, so why learn new forms when you can work more on application in a resisting and broken rhythm setting.

But yeah, other lineages of CLF have hundreds of forms. And that's very cool if that's what folks are interested in.

-123

[The Willow Sword]

I like the UFC, but I am 35 and not in the best shape so I do not want to be a pro fighter. SD you mean Shaolin Do Kung Fu? I have been seeking advice on many different forums and it seems everyone has something negative to say about them so I have stayed away. They say they are Kung-Fu but it looks like Karate classes? Karate?

Hey good for you on taking the advice. Hey i am 35 as well and i seriously reccomend running. ive been doing 3.5 miles every other day and just eating right and my weight has melted away. hehe if you can stand the heat here you can run and literally sweat the poundage away, just be careful, rehydrate like it is going out of style.


I have however been referred to this guy.........

http://www.austinkenpokarate.com/

This says it is a mix of Chinese Karate?????? A teacher at another Kenpo school recommended him to me because I can go 2-3 days per week because he offers classes on my days off, which is proving to be the most difficult thing for me to find. 90% of schools in Austin are closed on Friday. The guy who referred me has no business affiliation with him at all. Anyone have any thoughts on Chinese Karate?

Kempo is a solid system and if you can handle the training there id reccomend it as well. I know of this school but back when Mike Abedin was running things and i had only a brief intro to that school. for me it was then a little too drill instructor oriented and i wasnt looking to be a soldier. Abedin is a tough dude. i dont know much about schroder.

good luck in your search and i hope you find the right place for your needs.

Peace,TWS

[jstreet]

good luck in your search and i hope you find the right place for your needs.

Peace,TWS

Are you in Austin? Where do you train?

Thanks for all of the help everyone.

[jstreet]

Go watch the advanced classes at the SD school I think you will chang your mind KC


Why are so many people opposed to Shaolin Do? I saw an article while doing research about a guy here in Austin who obtained Black Belt in two years. It was actually in one of our local news papers, the guy is now one of the junior instructors. Is two years at two to three days per week realistic to obtain a SD Black Belt?

[Judge Pen]

Why are so many people opposed to Shaolin Do? I saw an article while doing research about a guy here in Austin who obtained Black Belt in two years. It was actually in one of our local news papers, the guy is now one of the junior instructors. Is two years at two to three days per week realistic to obtain a SD Black Belt?

I think two years is too soon even if you attend class every day, but it depends on what rank means, right? The older I get the less rank means to me. It took me 3.5 years and I really knew very little in the grand scheme of things. If you never stop training, then the sash or belt is just decoration to wear around your waist.

If you want to know more about SD, I'd suggest you take a few hours and read the "Is SD for Real" thread in the Shaolin forum here in KFO. You will find all the arguments and counter-arguments well stated there.

[The Willow Sword]

for sorta turning this thread in to yet another sd debate.

when i was looking at Jstreets links and saw the swshaolin link i felt it was my duty as a compassionate and decent individual to spare him of having to waste his time with that school;)

but again i apologize for turning it back in to one. i deserve to be spanked, where is wendy wushu chick? i need a good spanking:p :D


Peas and wub,,TWS

[jstreet]

http://www.news8austin.com/content/sports/athlete%5Fof%5Fthe%5Fweek/?ArID=75694&SecID=31

This is the link I was referring to, showing the time frame of the Black Belt taking two years. I appreciate the heads up. I was asking for information and you gave me your 2 cents, no harm no foul. Every forum I have posted in has basically agreed that SD is controversial to say the least.

[jstreet]

I want to make it clear that I mean no disrespect to any SD school or Student. I came to these and other forums seeking beginners advice. Every forum has members against this style, more so than any other. I am sure there are students and instructors that are very good SD Martial Artisits. I found a thread that disputed the time frame and the lineage and then another that said when the show Kung Fu came out in the 70's that Karate classes started wearing Kung Fu uniforms and calling themselves Kung Fu while teaching Karate and SD was created because of popular media. I don't know what the hell to think about all of this controversy, so I have decided not to go in that direction.

[Judge Pen]

Yes its controversial and there is a lot of information and misinformation out there (example from your last post: the uniforms haven't changed from the gi for most schools and the ones that have changed didn't do it because of David Carradine's TV show). Seriously, the "Is SD thread for Real" thread goes into detail about the dbates if you are interested. Other than that, I propose we all beat TWS for derailing this thread. :p

jstreet, good luck in your search for a school that fits your needs.

[The Willow Sword]

i said i was sorry:( . i offered myself up for a spanking from Wendy Wushu chick:o

Sheesh!!

:D TWS

[jstreet]

Yes its controversial and there is a lot of information and misinformation out there (example from your last post: the uniforms haven't changed from the gi for most schools and the ones that have changed didn't do it because of David Carradine's TV show). Seriously, the "Is SD thread for Real" thread goes into detail about the dbates if you are interested. Other than that, I propose we all beat TWS for derailing this thread. :p

jstreet, good luck in your search for a school that fits your needs.


Man that thread has almost 1900 posts!!!!!
I guess this is the most controversial subject in American Kung Fu? Or is this world wide?

[Water Dragon]

Man that thread has almost 1900 posts!!!!!
I guess this is the most controversial subject in American Kung Fu? Or is this world wide?

There's a phrase in CMA that transates to flowery fist and brocade leg. Go read about that.

[jstreet]

There's a phrase in CMA that transates to flowery fist and brocade leg. Go read about that.
Not sure what this means.

[SanHeChuan]

Chud,
I have yet to hear rumor of anyone teaching in SA from that school. But give me five years and I'm there. ;) There is an instructor in Dallas, so maybe you could ask Sifu Don. I'd prefer San Antonio to Austin, but there is no kung fu in SA, so at the end of the year I'm moving to Austin. I'm hoping this east wind school is a good one because it'll be my first stop.

jstreet,
Water dragon had some excellent advice. You should follow it. :D

All,
Unless jstreet or some other n00b has a legitimate question about SD don't mention it again, and we can stay on topic.

[jstreet]

No need to discuss SD anymore. I will check out the recommendations and go from there.

Not to continue to bring up controversy, but what are the opinions of the ATA Black Belt Academy? I have a friend of a friend that swears by them, but you know how that goes. Please no violence as I am just asking opinions, not trying to start a riot.

[jstreet]

There's a phrase in CMA that transates to flowery fist and brocade leg. Go read about that.


It does not matter how beautiful the forms are: martial art forms without practical usage are called Flower Fist and Brocade Leg.

****:D That's cold.

[SanHeChuan]

:mad: ATA is an overpriced McDojo.:mad: They use long term contracts at Whorrendous prices. :mad: Tae kwon do has been commercialized in the United States to the point where its just best to be avoided all together. :mad: Which is why I'm suspicious of any Korean Martial arts. :mad: The ATA where I live is literally the worst MA school I've ever seen. :mad:

It's sad really, because most peoples first expericance in the MA's is with TKD.

jstreet,
I meant WD's advice about the list.

[jstreet]

I looked for information on ATA BB Academy's pricing and couldn't find much on the net for my local area. I am going to check them out based on the recommendation of a friend of a friend so I will know soon. I was wondering if this is the one that charges for belt tests, equipment that can only be purchased through them at higher prices, etc...

So far I have visited one school and observed one class.
http://www.inosanto.com/wrapper.php?file=bios_parra.htm

I really like it, but they only teach JKD one day per week and it is on Monday.
My days off are Thurs-Fri, and they are open on Mon,Wed, and Friday. So I don't think this will work because of schedule conflicts. I feel confident, Adam Ganshirt, who is in charge of the school, can teach you how to fight as well as do MMA type of training. Anyone looking for tough MMA training in Austin, give Adam a call. Even though I don't know if I will join, I am going to go check out the Friday Muay Thai class next Friday. So far the biggest problem for me is Schedule Conflicts.

I will keep this thread going and report my experiences of the schools I visit. This list keeps getting bigger. It is going to take me several weeks to check all of these places out.

[Water Dragon]

Chud,
I'd prefer San Antonio to Austin, but there is no kung fu in SA, so at the end of the year I'm moving to Austin.

I'm in SA, I know a lil Kung Fu.

[Water Dragon]

I will keep this thread going and report my experiences of the schools I visit. This list keeps getting bigger. It is going to take me sevral weeks to check all of these places out.

I think that's a good idea. You could considering doing a little write up here after you visit each school. You have fresh eyes, so I'd be interested in how you view things.

What are your goals anyway? Get in shape, learn how to fight, learn some bad ass forms? There's no right or wrong, just what you want from training. We could help you out more if we knew what those goals were.

[jstreet]

I think that's a good idea. You could considering doing a little write up here after you visit each school. You have fresh eyes, so I'd be interested in how you view things.

What are your goals anyway? Get in shape, learn how to fight, learn some bad ass forms? There's no right or wrong, just what you want from training. We could help you out more if we knew what those goals were.

What are your goals anyway?

All of the above that you just mentioned. That is why I am having such a hard time deciding. I am interested in everything out there, just about anyway. I am mainly interested in Kung-Fu or maybe JKD, which is why I chose this forum in the first place. Adam Ganshirt's school doesn't teach forms, they are strictly functional training, no wasted moves, straight to the point. I have been told JKD is not for beginners and I first need to develop a foundation. I should have done this years ago, but better late than never.

Do you guys recommend schools that accept adults only?

This place advertises in the phone book 18 and up and I have to take a Physical to join. What's the deal with these guys? Taijutsu/Ninjutsu?
http://www.spiritwarriors.com/

[chud]

So far I have visited one school and observed one class.
http://www.inosanto.com/wrapper.php?file=bios_parra.htm



Yep, Ray is a nice guy and one tough mofo. It's been many years since I've trained JKD with him, glad to see he's still kicking.

[jstreet]

Yep, Ray is a nice guy and one tough mofo. It's been many years since I've trained with him, glad to see he's still kicking.

Yep they are the real deal if you are looking for a true MMA school. No Air Conditioning at all in the School. You will get a good workout that's for sure. No McDojo labeling for this school.

[chud]

I have been told JKD is not for beginners and I first need to develop a foundation.

If you get a solid foundation in Wing Chun (Wing Tsun, Wing Tzun, etc) it will serve you pretty well in JKD.

[jstreet]

If you get a solid foundation in Wing Chun (Wing Tsun, Wing Tzun, etc) it will serve you pretty well in JKD.

http://austinwt.com/index.php

This is the only Wing Tsun school in town. I am checking them out Friday. I hope I like it because it is perfect for my work schedule.

[chud]

http://austinwt.com/index.php

This is the only Wing Tsun school in town. I am checking them out Friday. I hope I like it because it is perfect for my work schedule.

Yeah, Sifu Jeff Webb is good. I met him and a bunch of the Austin group back when I went to the San Antonio Wing Tsun school years ago; they would come down for seminars if Grandmaster Leung Ting came to our school.

[kwaichang]

Remember what Bruce Lee said, "Be an egoless piece of wood not thinking for or against" Try them for your self if you listen to those on this site you will be Biased much like we all are. TWS doesnt like SD I dont like ATA etc etc. Find your own path KC:)

[jstreet]

Remember what Bruce Lee said, "Be an egoless piece of wood not thinking for or against" Try them for your self if you listen to those on this site you will be Biased much like we all are. TWS doesnt like SD I dont like ATA etc etc. Find your own path KC:)

I figured this forum would be a great resource and it has really turned out to be just that. The ultimate decision will be made after I visit these schools myself and observe class and meet the instructor. I am going to check out the ATA Academy down the street from me. TKD must be popular for a reason so I am going to give them the benefit of the doubt, although Kung-Fu has been my main interest from the get-go.. SD has to many things that seem out of place for me to try them out. I have posted at several other forums and there is always conflict with SD and the lack of respect is across the board. There does seem to be in fighting between different Kung-Fu styles, but not disrespect and claims of misappropriation of lineage and authenticity like you see with SD.

[jstreet]

I had a great visit with this school tonight. The adult class I attended lasted one hour. I met the instructor who posts at this forum, Santanu Rahman. I can say that the pace of the class was great and the people in class were enjoying themselves and getting a great workout at the same time. It was almost non-stop punching with gloves and your team mate holding the mits then switching off. He had two ten minute non-stop burn outs that looked fun and challenging. I met a woman there tonight who looked really good with her technique and I asked her how long she had been there and she said two months. I was surprised that she had developed so much in such a short time. I don't know if she had any prior training, but this class willl no doubt build a solid foundation for you so you can appreciate the forms later, as is the Philosopy of this instructor. He took the entire class to his home afterwards and purchased them pizza and they were going to go watch a Bruce Lee Documentary. It seemed like something you would really want to be a part of. Most of all I liked Santanu. He is very articulate about the way he handles the class. I am sure it is directly related to his level of education. Very clear communication for easy understanding. No pressure to sign me because he has read this thread and he knows I am still looking. The class is way across town for me and the schedule doesn't work well for me because of my work schedule. All in all I will no doubt recommend this school to anyone looking for Kung-Fu in Austin. Although I am a beginner, if you meet this guy in person, you will see what I mean.

Thanks Santanu,
Jon

[jstreet]

Sifu Finley is a very interesting person. This place had a totally different feel to it than Santanu's. This class did not speak at all during the 1 hr 30 min session I was able to watch. Almost Zen like feeling, meditative. They had a great deal of stretching and breathing exercises during this session as this philosophy builds conditioning over the long term. You also get a 30 minute private session per week. Combined with the 1 hr 30 minute half conditioning, half kung fu class, it seems as if you get a pretty good deal for the price he charges and there is no contract to sign. He said just show up Thursday ready to go. He was doing some forms while the class was doing warm ups and his skill level was impressive. I may be new to this, but after spending about 15 minutes with him I could tell this has been a lifelong commitment for him. He has a great deal to teach and if you are looking for a disciplined program that will have great results over the long term this is a great place to go. If you are looking for instant gratification, you should seek training elsewhere. He builds fighters by way of conditioning and once you are in shape, then and only then will you start the advanced training. Very, very unique indvidual with many, many, many disciplined years of Kung-Fu training under his belt. I also highly recommend this school for the beginner or probably even the advanced student because of the way he is set up. He is deserving of all of the praise he received earlier in this thread. Thanks for the great advice. He is about to change the schedule and it will be tough for me to do the private session and the class in the same day because the class is so physically demanding. So again my hesitation to join this school, just like the one before this one is my work schedule. Both classes I saw today will no doubt challenge the students, and offer very high quality instruction.

I had the pleasure of visiting two schools today that I would be more than willing to join.
The school I am visiting tommorow works better with my schedule so I will report on that one tomorrow.

[yutyeesam]

Thank you for the kind words! I think I speak for everybody when I say that we really respect the way you are going about finding Kung-Fu instruction. I know that whoever you chose will be lucky to have you as a student, because it is more than obvious that you care about your training process, and you have a personality that shows you would care about your classmates' well-being.

I look forward to reading more about your quest!

All the best,
-123 (Santanu)

[jstreet]

I had the opportunity to meet Sifu Webb today, and again this seems like a program that has a great deal to offer. They are different than the other 3 schools I have visited as they teach forms and technique to the beginning student straight away. I met one of the instructors who was 63 years old and in incredible shape. He was telling me he did TKD for 20 plus years and he didn't want to give up training. He had operations on both knees and said the rigorous training that TKD has on you keeps it from being a lifelong art (for him anyway), naming several people that required hip replacements, etc. He said you can take WC forever because it has a great deal to offer without the intense wear and tear on the body while training. At 35 I want to push myself, no doubt about it, but don't want to ruin my joints or other areas of the body with training I can't handle. This style seems to be a much more efficient way to fight someone. It is about knowing what to do when in a confrontation to end the fight asap. I really like what I saw and it is at the top of the list right now, because of my work schedule and its location and the instructors knowledge. It was the least physically demanding class I have seen so far, but I expected that because of its style and technique not being based on aggression. I can see why WC is regarded as great self defense. They did try to sign me up today, but were cool when I told them why I couldn't. Sifu Webb spent a great deal of time with me in the class, although I was only an observer. It had more of a commercial feel to it than the other classes I have seen, but I believe that is because they are part of a very large chain. The quality of the school seem exceptional and it may be a large organization, but it's no McDojo. The students I met highly recommended the class and everyone seemed to have good knowlege of what to do and when to do it. I started this quest wanting to learn WC and it seems like a good fit and a way to build a good foundation. It is easy to say yes to this one, but hard to say no to the other two. The more I look, the tougher it gets.

To mix it up a little bit I have decided to check out TKD and see how it differs from what I have seen so far. I have found another school to check out instead of the ATA Academy that is very close to home and has an instructor who learned TKD in Korea and had a school in Seoul. It seems to have more of an authentic feel to it, as opposed to the ATA, who want me to participate in the class instead of observing?

Here's the link.
http://masterjung.net/

I'll let you know how it goes as soon as I can get scheduled.
The quest continues.

[chud]

I met one of the instructors who was 63 years old and in incredible shape. He was telling me he did TKD for 20 plus years and he didn't want to give up training. He had operations on both knees and said the rigorous training that TKD has on you keeps it from being a lifelong art

Yep, that was my experience with TKD also. When I was a lot younger I had a great TKD instructor (guy named Tommy Minner from Unified TaeKwonDo), but you can't do high flying kicks for the rest of your life. TKD is not a style you can grow old with.

[jstreet]

Yep, that was my experience with TKD also. When I was a lot younger I had a great TKD instructor (guy named Tommy Minner from Unified TaeKwonDo), but you can't do high flying kicks for the rest of your life. TKD is not a style you can grow old with.

If I end up taking TKD it would be a one or two year project. I think it would be fun to learn all of those kicks, and no doubt I would be in better shape. Tiger Jung's is the only school in town that has adult classes starting at 8:15 P.M. I could litereally attend 4 nights per week. I think Kung-Fu is a better form of self defense, no doubt about that, especially the Wing Chun. I am visiting the TKD school on July 5th. I like the WC better as an art form, but I think the TKD will get me in shape much quicker and seems to be the better value because of the way the adult classes are scheduled. This just keeps getting tougher. The TKD instructor is just learning to speak English, so I am not sure how clear his c ommunication will be?

[Reggie1]

jstreet, It sounds like you've got the search under control, but I thought I'd give you my (inexperienced) 2 cents on schools I know in Austin. These aren't kung fu schools, but all will get you in shape and teach you how to defend yourself really well.

If you live on the North side of town and are interested in jiu-jitsu at all, you might want to check out Vandry Jiu-jitsu. I trained with a purple belt under Mr. Vandry and he is a great guy.

http://www.austinbjj.com/

If you are Central or South, I'd recommend you check out three different places. The first is a pretty low-key place that's out of a guy's garage. Awesome group of people and a very relaxed, ego-free environment.

http://www.austinsubfighting.com/

The next is Phil Cardella's jiu-jitsu school. I trained with Phil for a while. He's great and they have wide open hours.

http://www.austinjj.com

Here's another place that's South. They have great facilities and a variety of programs.

http://www.vasquezacademy.net/Default.htm

[jstreet]

jstreet, It sounds like you've got the search under control, but I thought I'd give you my (inexperienced) 2 cents on schools I know in Austin. These aren't kung fu schools, but all will get you in shape and teach you how to defend yourself really well.

If you live on the North side of town and are interested in jiu-jitsu at all, you might want to check out Vandry Jiu-jitsu. I trained with a purple belt under Mr. Vandry and he is a great guy.

http://www.austinbjj.com/

If you are Central or South, I'd recommend you check out three different places. The first is a pretty low-key place that's out of a guy's garage. Awesome group of people and a very relaxed, ego-free environment.

http://www.austinsubfighting.com/

The next is Phil Cardella's jiu-jitsu school. I trained with Phil for a while. He's great and they have wide open hours.

http://www.austinjj.com

Here's another place that's South. They have great facilities and a variety of programs.

http://www.vasquezacademy.net/Default.htm


Thanks for the links. For now I am going to stay away from the BJJ style. I want to try Kung-Fu or TKD first. I have a few more reviews to give and two more schools to visit, then I will make my decision. I am freakin foaming at the mouth to get started at this point.

[Water Dragon]

You should at least visit 1 or 2 BJJ schools. Sample everything that's out there. Everything. You never know what art you're going to fall in love with until you get out there and try it. How was the SC school?

[jstreet]

http://masterjung.net/

I had the pleasure of visiting this school last week and if anyone is interested in taking WTF style TKD in Austin, this will be a great place to check out. Master Jung has 25 years experience, was Captain of the Korean Demo team at the Olympics, has a degree in TKD from a University in Korea where TKD is taught as curriculum, and ran a school in Seoul, Korea for 7 years prior to moving to the United States. One of his students has made the Olympic team, but I didn't get any details about it?
He lives to Spar and this would be a great class to learn the Olympic style, no doubt about it. This class would be the best workout I have seen so far. He gets the adult class sweating big time. Master Jung is also the Preacher at the Korean Methodist Church in this area and he seems like an all around great guy. I can honestly say people in Austin are lucky to have all of these great schools to learn from. Because of his school location, skill level as an instructor (6th Dan), and adult classes starting at 8 P.M., this school is near the very top of my list. I still think the Wing Tsun is better self-defense, but this is the better workout and works better with my schedule.

[jstreet]

You should at least visit 1 or 2 BJJ schools. Sample everything that's out there. Everything. You never know what art you're going to fall in love with until you get out there and try it. How was the SC school?

I think I have found what I am looking for.
I have a new number one pick.

[Water Dragon]

heh heh. Liked getting tossed on your noggin'. huh? I did SC for about 4 years. If you have the time, try training both Judo and SC. If you can devote 2 days a week to each, you'll end up a monster in 2 years.

[jstreet]

http://www.rrkungfu.com/

This school is more than likely going to be the one I go with. The few remaining schools I have to visit would have to cut me a sweet deal for me to go anywhere else but here. Sifu Dave Pickens has an extremely engaging personality and his instruction is crystal clear. He has an incredible background and the blend of Tai Chi, Northern Shaolin Boxing, and Shuai Chiao made the class very interesting and well rounded. He had one of his senior students lead the class tonight and the guy was incredible. I think this style will be a great way to get in shape AND learn self-defense at the same time. I was nervous about this class at first because of all of the throws and falls you take in class. As a beginner you FIRST learn how to fall correctly before you start getting hands on with ther Shuai Chiao. This was important for me as a beginner because I didn't want to sign up, get my ass kicked, and then not be able to work the next day or be so **** sore I have to miss class. I would be able to attend the Kung-Fu classes on Mon and Wed evening and the Tai-Chi only class on Thursday. This school is 2.7 miles from my Apartment and I don't have to access any main roads to get there, so traffic is no problem. This school is the best location for me out of all of them I have visited, by far. I am sold, on the location, the curriculum, the instructor and it is the best price I have found so far. As much as I have enjoyed everything I have seen, I can say if I had to make the decision right now, this would be the one hands down.

Sifu Pickens is friends with Sifu Hughes who runs this school ( http://usakfa.com/ )
I am visting that school Thursday, I love the styles they offer but I could only attend one day per week and it is way across town, so I don't think it can beat what I have seen tonight, but I am going to check it out anyway. Then I have one more TKD school on the list and that's it. I saw a BJJ class the same day I saw the JKD class at Adam Ganshirt's studio. The link to that school is a couple of pages back, I believe it is the Ray Parra/Inosanto link. Once I have a good foundation then I may consider BJJ. BJJ and Muay Thai may have more "street cred", but that Shuai Chiao looked pretty bad ass to me.

[Water Dragon]

Bro, Shuai Chiao was the only thing that saved my butt when I went to MMA, and Dave Pickens is a great coach. You're gonna learn good stuff with him.

[jstreet]

heh heh. Liked getting tossed on your noggin'. huh? I did SC for about 4 years. If you have the time, try training both Judo and SC. If you can devote 2 days a week to each, you'll end up a monster in 2 years.

I didn't know what to expect so I kept an open mind about it. He says when he immediatley throws newbies around with the SC he starts losing them left and right. He knows I need to crawl before I can walk and the getting my ass kicked aspect of the SC will come when I am ready for it and I know how to fall correctly.

I didn't want to take Judo because I wanted something more well rounded. Sifu mixes the Northern Shaolin and Tai Chi in the class with the SC and it seems like a good well rounded mix. The SC looks solid to me, but what do I know I am a beginner.

[Water Dragon]

That's fine, especially with time restraints. I do Judo now and I'm telling you that if you can train both, your throwing skills will develop rapidly, and you'll develop a decent ground game. Plus, if you're getting even a little striking from Pickens you have yourself a well developed game with a hardcore throwing foundation.

[jstreet]

Bro, Shuai Chiao was the only thing that saved my butt when I went to MMA, and Dave Pickens is a great coach. You're gonna learn good stuff with him.


Thanks for your help WD. I feel I have done my due diligence and researched everything I was interested in and even a few things I wasn't. One of the main things I was looking for was good instruction, and you are right about Dave, you can no doubt learn from him. He has a great deal of knowledge to share for those who seek it.

[jstreet]

That's fine, especially with time restraints. I do Judo now and I'm telling you that if you can train both, your throwing skills will develop rapidly, and you'll develop a decent ground game. Plus, if you're getting even a little striking from Pickens you have yourself a well developed game with a hardcore throwing foundation.

You are right about the Judo working well with the SC, Sifu mentioned that in a round about way, once I have a foundation built, I will look in to it. He is a student of the game. He has studied TKD when overseas with the Air Force as well as Shotokan Karate. He has been involved in the MA's for 41 years. I can tell this is going to be fun.

[Pork Chop]

http://www.rrkungfu.com/

I used to work out there occasionally (every Wednesday; mostly learning breakfalls). My main sifu at the time was Jeff Hughes. Lookin back, I probably shoulda stuck with Round Rock full time. Sifu Pickens is awesome, all the guys there were nice. GGL from this forum trains there. Think I woulda accomplished so much more goin there full-time than doin the cross-town drive I did for that year or so. Plus, they've got a lei tai program.

[jstreet]

http://www.rrkungfu.com/

I used to work out there occasionally (every Wednesday; mostly learning breakfalls). My main sifu at the time was Jeff Hughes. Lookin back, I probably shoulda stuck with Round Rock full time. Sifu Pickens is awesome, all the guys there were nice. GGL from this forum trains there. Think I woulda accomplished so much more goin there full-time than doin the cross-town drive I did for that year or so. Plus, they've got a lei tai program.

Sifu Hughes and Pickens are friends and they hold events together. What are the main differences between them? Style wise and instructor wise? I am visiting Sifu Hughes's school Thursday,

[Reggie1]

Sifu Hughes and Pickens are friends and they hold events together. What are the main differences between them? Style wise and instructor wise? I am visiting Sifu Hughes's school Thursday,I"ve never been to sifu Pickens' school, but I've heard really good things about him. I was a student of sifu Hughes for a little over a year at USAKFA.

I can't tell you the differences, but I can tell you about the 7* school. Sifu Hughes is an incredible teacher, and the style is very interesting. I'd say a typical class was broken down like this:

15 minute warmup
15 minutes of drills (punching, kicking, Chin Na)
10 minutes of resistance training (or other drills)
20 minutes of forms and weapons

Most days there would also be an extra 30 minutes to work on a 2-man form. The classes were pretty intense--it's a very demanding workout. On Saturdays there are a lot of classes available as well. Saturdays is really the only day that they free spar.

In my opinion if you'd only be able to make it one day a week to sifu Hughes' class then it might not be worth going. 7* is a pretty complex system that requires a lot of dedication.

[jstreet]

I"ve never been to sifu Pickens' school, but I've heard really good things about him. I was a student of sifu Hughes for a little over a year at USAKFA.

I can't tell you the differences, but I can tell you about the 7* school. Sifu Hughes is an incredible teacher, and the style is very interesting. I'd say a typical class was broken down like this:

15 minute warmup
15 minutes of drills (punching, kicking, Chin Na)
10 minutes of resistance training (or other drills)
20 minutes of forms and weapons

Most days there would also be an extra 30 minutes to work on a 2-man form. The classes were pretty intense--it's a very demanding workout. On Saturdays there are a lot of classes available as well. Saturdays is really the only day that they free spar.

In my opinion if you'd only be able to make it one day a week to sifu Hughes' class then it might not be worth going. 7* is a pretty complex system that requires a lot of dedication.

I think this would be a great place to start. I am a pretty big guy, and I am not in the best shape, so I am not excited about being thrown around with the SC. I just don't see 7* working because of location and schedule.

[Reggie1]

That sucks about the whole location/schedule thing. But I would say the 7* school is a great place to start. If you're interested in authetic traditional Chinese Martial Arts, then Sifu Hughes' school is 100% for you.

I don't know what your schedule is like, but they do (or did when I was there) have classes Monday - Saturday. If you want to get in shape, they'll do it. Like I said, the conditioning is pretty intense.

The only negative things I can say about training at sifu Hughes' school was that they didn't spar enough for my taste, and there were a lot of forms and weapons work. The students got together and sparred after hours, but with my time constraints I couldn't always go. And I didn't have the focus for all the forms and weapons forms.

[Pork Chop]

When I was at Hughes' school sparring was on Saturdays. Saturdays were also the only days we actually hit stuff (pads or whatever). In retrospect I think I wanted more of the fight training. I have no idea how they've been running things the last 6 years tho.

The reason I said I could've gotten further in Round Rock is coz the Round Rock school was a good 15 minutes from my house.

I had a hard time making it down to USAKFA coz it was a 45min drive with no traffic- on weekdays in rush hour that would double. At one point I had a hard time making it down Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The long drive would make me stiff by the time i got there and make me cramp up on the way home.

I'll pm you with more specifics.

[Reggie1]

When I was at Hughes' school sparring was on Saturdays. Saturdays were also the only days we actually hit stuff (pads or whatever). In retrospect I think I wanted more of the fight training. I have no idea how they've been running things the last 6 years tho.It was the same when I was there.

[jstreet]

When I was at Hughes' school sparring was on Saturdays. Saturdays were also the only days we actually hit stuff (pads or whatever). In retrospect I think I wanted more of the fight training. I have no idea how they've been running things the last 6 years tho.

The reason I said I could've gotten further in Round Rock is coz the Round Rock school was a good 15 minutes from my house.

I had a hard time making it down to USAKFA coz it was a 45min drive with no traffic- on weekdays in rush hour that would double. At one point I had a hard time making it down Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The long drive would make me stiff by the time i got there and make me cramp up on the way home.

I'll pm you with more specifics.

Exactly my point, living in North Round Rock and going to school in S. Austin just isn't realistic. I will no doubt be late from time to time trying to get there, while stuck in Rush Hour traffic. Gas at 3.00 per gallon doesn't help either. I am still going to check it out. If I lived South, I would probably go there no questions asked.

[Pork Chop]

forgot about the gas issue, i was doin that back when gas was 1.39 a gallon. haha

[jstreet]

One thing I forgot to metion is.....while at the TKD class, I arrived early and was observing the Children's class and noticed several HOT single women with kids. I spoke to several of them and I think that in certain type schools it might be a great place to pick up women.....FYI.

[jstreet]

http://usakfa.com/

I scheduled this class on Thursday and decided to go tonight instead. I thought I had my mind made up, but this class is as good as I have seen anywhere. I got to watch the advanced class tonight, and the instructors as well as Sifu Hughes were incredible. No doubt, this class is just as demanding of a work out as the TKD class I observed, if not more. I can sign up for the beginners class and only be able to attend one night per week, and it is a 30 minute class to start. I am not sure when it goes to a full hour. They told me because of my work schedule they would allow me to come in other days of the week between 4 and 5 pm, and they would work with me a few minutes, then let me work by myself, then come back to me and correct me if need be. The school hours between 4 and 5 pm are set up to help people with scheduling problems like I have, it is also a time they return calls, etc.. It is a 7 month course and the price is very reasonable. I get a discount if I pay cash, so I will. I really liked it, and they are willing to help accomodate the fact that it really doesn't mesh well with my work schedule. With Sifu Pickens I can attend 2 nights of Kung Fu and one night of Tai Chi per week. With Sifu Hughes my time is only 30 minutes per week and then unsupervised time a few other days per week. What are your thoughts on the offer I am being made with Sifu Hughes? I liked what I saw well enough to strongly consider the offer they have made.

I am not going to visit any other schools as I am going to now decide between these two schools, so this part of the journey is over. I am ready to get started.

This one.... http://usakfa.com/ or
This one.... http://www.rrkungfu.com/ ??

I would like to thank the people who run this Website and Magazine. This has been a great resource and I believe I am making a much better decision about joining Martial Arts after reading these posts and meeting these great people that gather here to talk about Martial Arts. Thank you all very much for all of your opinions.

[Pork Chop]

You got my opinion via pm, hope you didn't take that as pressure to go one way or the other.
Good luck with your decision.
I know you'll make the right decision based on what'll work best for you.

[jstreet]

You got my opinion via pm, hope you didn't take that as pressure to go one way or the other.
Good luck with your decision.
I know you'll make the right decision based on what'll work best for you.


Thanks for all of your help, check your PM'S.
'

[The Willow Sword]

I like jeff hughes. he has been around town for a long time and has established himself as a well respected teacher, his lineage and curriculum is solid and legitamate(as you experienced when you went there).

Pickens school is solid as well and may be more of what you are looking for in the way of training and techniques. i had gone there several years ago and took a class and felt very welcome(same with Hughes school).

whatever decision you go with it will be a good one, in my opinion.

As always,TWS

[chud]

Sounds like you have two very good options to choose from, so I don't think you can lose either way. :)

You know, this thread has really made me realize something. I moved away from Austin in 1993 after a bad breakup with a girlfriend and never looked back, but this thread has made me realize what a great city Austin is for Kung Fu. I live in San Antonio now and I love it, but the kung fu choices here are very limited (which is strange because SA is bigger than Austin).
In fact, I drive over an hour each way to Woodcreek to train with Sifu Gary Stier because he's a better option than anything I have here in SA.
Btw jstreet, I know you pretty much have your mind made up at this point, but Sifu Stier comes in to Austin and teaches Tai Chi once a week at a Kenpo school there. If you ever want to check it out, shoot me a PM or just check my profile for his link.

[jstreet]

You know, this thread has really made me realize something. I moved away from Austin in 1993 after a bad breakup with a girlfriend and never looked back, but this thread has made me realize what a great city Austin is for Kung Fu.

Thanks for the response, I agree that if you live in this area you have several great options for Kung-Fu.

You have

Sifu Webb for Wing Tsun
Sifu Hughes for 7 Star Mantis
Sifu Pickens for Shuai Chiao
Sifu Finley @ Eastwind Training Hall
and the newcomer
Sifu Rahman @ austinkungfuacademy.com teaching CLF

not to mention John Wang and his students.


Pretty good well rounded, diversified Kung-Fu styles to choose from.

[jstreet]

I like jeff hughes. he has been around town for a long time and has established himself as a well respected teacher, his lineage and curriculum is solid and legitamate(as you experienced when you went there).

Pickens school is solid as well and may be more of what you are looking for in the way of training and techniques. i had gone there several years ago and took a class and felt very welcome(same with Hughes school).

whatever decision you go with it will be a good one, in my opinion.

As always,TWS
Thanks you. You have been very helpful man. I am booked this week and next week, so I will be starting class either Monday the 24th or Monday the 31st. I have between now and then to decide which way I am going to go. I still have no idea which one I will sign with.