Many people associate tai chi with fitness, which is true. It is a great weight-bearing activity for movement, balance and strength building. What many people don’t realize is that tai chi is a martial art. Tai chi trains internal power and teach the student to turn the opponent’s power against themselves. It is easy to learn, but can take a lifetime to master. It is low impact, so it is easy on the joints, making it a great martial art for appropriate for people of all ages. The main form in Wu Style Tai Chi consists of 108 slow, relaxed motions.
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.
