Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. How do I become a member?
A. When you first arrive at class, ask either Shifu or a senior student for the membership application form. You will be required to provide a passport-size photograph when you hand the form back in. Make sure you have read the form and understood all the conditions.

Q. How many classes am I expected to attend a week?
A. In order to reap the benefits of the training fully, you should attempt to come to at least two classes a week, though it is understood that some people may have commitments making them not able to come often as they would like.

Q. How often do you have beginners' classes?
A. There are four Tai Chi, four Shaolin Kung Fu, one Shaolin Stick and two Chi Gong beginners' classes spread throughout the week. Take a look at the timetable to see when.

Q. What clothes should I wear to the class?
A. It is best to wear comfortable, loose clothing (tracksuits with a T-shirt or similar) and flat shoes. More suitable clothing imported from China can be purchased from Shifu when available in your size.

Q. Why should I choose your school?
A. Our school is run by Shifu Yang, who is a 34th Generation Shaolin Disciple with years of experience in the Shaolin Kung Fu and in Chen Style Tai Chi, having studied himself under the foremost masters of the arts. The school is also unique in that all students treat each other as equals, no matter how advanced they are themselves in their training. There is no room for egos and we welcome all newcomers with the respect they deserve.

Q. How long does it take to become proficient in the arts?
A. Each student has his or her own pace. If you have the time to attend a few times a week and make sure that you continue training in your spare time at work or at home, you will progress much quicker. Bear in mind that attending classes is not the whole story. Your muscles and tendons should be warmed up and stretched as often as you are able to do so. Moreover, all forms you learn at class should be practiced over and over again, so they become second nature to you - only then, they become effective.

Q. Will I be able to defend myself or break a plank of wood after a few lessons?
A. Shaolin Culture school of martial arts concentrates its teachings on the well-being of the body and mind and the righteousness of the spirit. The attainment of peace within through the correct practise of the arts is more desirable than the need to show off any skills. Shifu Yang places high importance on the traditional aspect of the school with particular emphasis on respect for the arts and its masters.

Q. How many students in a class?
A. Typically, there are 15-30 students in a class, though workshops tend to get busier.

Q. I'm old and feel past any training. Is it worth me even thinking about it?
A. Although Shaolin Kung Fu places high demands on your stamina, it is recommended that you definitely attend the Tai Chi and Chi Gong classes as these have been proven to be beneficial for all ages and will help you live a longer and more stress-free life. Our oldest student is 69 years old and even after only one year of training Tai Chi, is reaping the benefits by feeling and looking nearly half her age.

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