Shadow Fist Kung Fu and Tai Chi teaches a traditional style of Northern Shaolin kung fu known as Eagle Claw or Ying Jow Pai as well as Wu Style Tai Chi Chaun. We provide safe and positive training with the highest level of personal attention, service and instruction to every student. Eagle Claw Kung Fu can be used to improve fitness, self-defense as well as boosting confidence, life skills and self-esteem. We offer classes designed for kids (5+) and families as well as adult classes that empower our students to defend themselves, both physically and mentally.
We are the only school in Iowa authorized through the Ying Jow Pai Association to teach Eagle Claw Kung Fu under Grandmaster Shum.
We serve adults, families and children interested in learning a unique and traditional discipline. Our classes can be used for fitness, fun, self-defense, lifetime learning.
Improve Fitness
We are trained martial arts experts looking to empower students who are looking to diversify their training, want to learn to defend themselves, or are lifelong learners.
Personalized Attention
We help our students build self-defense skills and confidence through safe, positive, and personalized martial arts training.
Feel Empowered
We envision a community where the traditions of martial arts help students overcome past traumas and feel prepared to defend themselves in the future while building character through discipline and practice.
Eagle Claw Kung Fu
Learn the art of self defense with kung fu, the martial art that trains people physically and mentally. Although these martial art techniques are centuries old, the planned programs being offered are always evolving to keep pace with the rapidly changing world.
Wu Style Tai Chi Chuan is an ancient Chinese martial art designed for both health and self-defense. This exercise is beneficial for people of all ages, young and old. As a formidable martial art, it promotes both physical strength and mental clarity.
Tumbling and Acrobalance are unique adjunct courses to enhance balance, coordination as well as martial art skills required for forms. This class can be used in conjunction with kung fu classes or as a separate program.
Yoga is a practice that connects the body, breath, and mind. It uses physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve overall health. Yoga was developed as a spiritual practice thousands of years ago
Went in as an adult with zero martial arts experience. Everyone from the instructors to the students do a lot to both train hard and maintain a positive environment. If you come here, people will spend their energy on you and help you achieve whatever you’re looking for. I learned a lot from my time here, and no matter how my day was going before showing up, I’d always leave wanting to improve. 100% recommend at least trying it, first few classes are free!
Second month of qigong/tai chi, have barely scratched the surface and already seeing benefit. Instructors are skilled, devoted, supportive. Very friendly environment.
Multiple instructors (sifu’s) to offer a variety of perspectives rounding out training and appealing to people where they are in their practice and life. The culture and environment is welcoming. I have gone to other places in the past and felt out of place, the staff and students are quick to help and accept making sure all know this place is for them. Whether young or old, anxious or confident, you can find a place here to develop mind and body through martial arts and a culture of acceptance and growth.
A clean, well-equipped kung fu gym that welcomes all skill levels. The teachings are authentic, led by Sifu Giddings, who trained at the Shaolin Temple in China among other notable achievements.
I look forward to class every week! Classes are engaging, fun, and help develop skills and techniques needed for Eagle Claw Kung Fu and Wu Tai Chi. The instructors are knowledgeable, helpful, and supportive in classes for all ages and abilities. Over the last several months, I have gained confidence in myself and made great friends while learning authentic martial arts and increasing my athleticism. Highly recommend!!
Take your pick from Northern Shaolin Eagle Claw Kung Fu, sparring, Wu Style Tai Chi, Yoga, stretching and conditioning, traditional lion dancing, and more to come! A gorgeous growing school modeled after the teachings of Grand Master Shum. Excellent teachers who know their stuff.
School is focused on students and a positive learning environment. They adapt to the individual’s needs and learning style. Highly recommend for experienced and new students!!
Great family atmosphere with small class sizes and regular events and demos. To my knowledge, this is the only school teaching any authentic traditional kung fu in Des Moines.Sifu Aaron also has well over 20 years of experience in the style and was recognized as a master by grand master Leung Shum that brought this style to the US 50 years ago.Very positive, friendly culture for both kids and adults. Learning environment is not formal like karate or tkd.This isn’t wushu. While there are plenty of forms to learn and practice, including a large variety of weapons forms, Eagle Claw also emphasizes fighting application, if that’s what you’re interested in.
Contact Us
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED
Come visit us!
Visit our school is conveniently located in Windsor Heights. We’re on the backside of the building between Baskin Robbins and Immanuel Health on Hickman Road.
