The focus of our martial arts program is on fitness, self-defense, and personal challenge and growth. Total mindbody wellness.
Pensacola Shaolin-Do students practice self-defense techniques, Kung Fu open hand forms, weapons, sparring, meditation, strength training and aerobic conditioning. This dynamic approach allows for rapid advancement in fighting skill, balance, dexterity and endurance.
Before attaining black belt the student will learn 21 long forms covering 7 different Kung Fu open hand systems and 6 weapons as well as over 50 self-defense techniques practiced against a partner using simulated street attacks. This provides a rich background of techniques and styles to call upon.
Your First Class You are welcome to schedule a free trial class to see if our Kung Fu program is right for you. We generally invite prospective students to attend a beginner class for their free trial. Arrive a few minutes early to sign a waiver form and to meet your instructor and fellow students. Wear something loose-fitting and comfortable and bring a water bottle and small towel. Remove all jewelry and shoes before starting class.
Class will begin with a warm-up and follow with some kicking & punching drills. The instructor will then work individually with you to teach you three basic Kung Fu stances, three basic kicks and the first three sparring techniques. Then you will learn some self-defense techniques against common attacks. Most classes will end with some sparring drills and freestyle sparring – first night students will observe sparring to become familiar with the rules and sparring styles. (back to top)
Curriculum In the Shaolin temple there were only four recognized levels; student, disciple, master, and grandmaster. Our Great Grandmaster, Ie Chang Ming, introduced the use of colored belts to divide the material between student and disciple into five levels (White, yellow, blue, green, and brown) One form from a new animal and weapon system is taught at each level above white. Keep in mind that for a student to pass into the next rank, he/she must perform all the material for their present and all previous levels.
Black belt degrees one through four are considered beginners, while fifth degree is called associate master. Once a person reaches sixth degree they are considered full masters. The rank of ninth degree is considered a Grandmaster, but the position of tenth degree is held by only one person; the highest of the Grandmasters. While there can be many 9th degrees (there were often ten in a temple), there can be only one 10th degree. This person is given the awesome responsibility of assuring the continuation of Shaolin in its purest form.