Business Details
35 Years
experience
Martial Arts Classes for All Ages in Austin
Austin Kung Fu & Tai Chi has been a cornerstone of the Austin community for over 30 years, dedicated to teaching traditional martial arts with a focus on personal growth, physical fitness, and mental well-being. Founded by Master Joe and Master Sheryl Schaefer in 1991, our school emphasizes a supportive, inclusive environment where students of all ages and skill levels can thrive. With decades of combined teaching experience and advanced academic backgrounds in neurophysiology and physiology, our instructors bring both scientific rigor and deep martial arts expertise to every class. We prioritize community-building, offering programs tailored to adults, children, and seniors, ensuring each student develops confidence, discipline, and resilience.Our curriculum spans Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Shaolin weapons training, designed to foster lifelong learning and transformation. Recognized for our commitment to accessibility, we provide flexible scheduling, affordable rates, and a welcoming atmosphere free of contracts or hidden fees. Over 500 black belt graduates and thousands of students attest to our impact, with alumni praising the schools role in enhancing their physical health, mental clarity, and emotional resilience. We pride ourselves on maintaining a balanced focus on technical excellence, personal development, and community connection, making martial arts accessible and meaningful for everyone.
Services
Adult Kung Fu
Kids Kung Fu
Senior Tai Chi
Shaolin Weapons
Tai Chi Classes
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We offer over 35 years of combined teaching experience in Kung Fu and Tai Chi.
- Our instructors hold advanced degrees in neurophysiology and physiology.
- We maintain a 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio for personalized attention.
- We have produced over 500 black belt graduates since 1991.
- We provide senior discounts and flexible scheduling for all ages.
What people say
Safe, inclusive environment
Exceptional teacher-to-student ratio
Life-changing confidence growth
Welcoming community atmosphere
Effective senior-friendly instruction
Services
Adult Kung Fu
Our Adult Kung Fu program builds physical strength, mental discipline, and self-defense skills through traditional Shaolin techniques. Students learn fluid movements, forms, and sparring in a structured environment that emphasizes personal growth. The practice enhances coordination, cardiovascular health, and stress relief while fostering a sense of community among practitioners.
Kids Kung Fu
Designed for children aged 4-12, this program develops focus, confidence, and physical fitness through age-appropriate Kung Fu instruction. Small class sizes ensure individual attention, while the curriculum teaches respect, perseverance, and emotional regulation in a supportive, screen-free environment.
Senior Tai Chi
Senior Tai Chi classes improve balance, flexibility, and joint health through slow, meditative movements. This low-impact practice reduces fall risk, alleviates chronic pain, and promotes mental clarity, making it ideal for older adults seeking holistic wellness.
Shaolin Weapons
Advanced students can master traditional Shaolin weapons including staffs, swords, and spears. This specialized training enhances coordination, precision, and understanding of martial arts history while maintaining the discipline and safety standards of our core programs.
Tai Chi Classes
Our Tai Chi curriculum combines movement and breathwork to reduce stress, improve circulation, and enhance mental focus. Classes range from beginner to advanced levels, offering progressive learning of forms and principles rooted in centuries-old Chinese traditions.
People
Master Joe Schaefer
Co-Owner & Head Instructor
8th-degree black belt with a PhD in Neurophysiology, Joe has taught Kung Fu since 1987. He combines scientific expertise with martial arts mastery, having published in top neuroscience journals and trained thousands of students globally.
Master Sheryl Schaefer
Co-Owner & Senior Instructor
7th-degree black belt with a Master's in Physiology, Sheryl has taught martial arts since 1988. She specializes in women's empowerment programs and has mentored over 1,000 students while maintaining university-level teaching experience in biology and health sciences.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We offer traditional Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Shaolin weapons training for adults, children, and seniors.
Are classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! All classes start at beginner levels with progressive skill development, no prior experience required.
What are your class sizes?
We maintain a 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio to ensure personalized instruction and safety.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, we provide discounted rates for multiple family members attending classes together.
What are your cancellation policies?
We have no contracts or cancellation fees - monthly payments with flexible enrollment options.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide a free introductory class for both adults and children to experience our programs.
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