Business Details
Traditional Martial Arts Training in Peoria, AZ
Shaolin Arts was founded in 1995 by Chris Workman, whose lifelong passion for martial arts began at age 14. After studying multiple disciplines including Aikido, Karate, and Jeet Kune Do, he recognized critical flaws in traditional martial arts instruction: superficial mastery, lack of foundational understanding, and commercialization over authentic teaching. Combining his martial arts expertise with a physics background, Workman developed a scientifically grounded curriculum emphasizing depth over speed.Shaolin Arts eliminates binding contracts, requires biennial instructor certification, and focuses on cultivating both technical proficiency and philosophical understanding. With over 30 years of experience, our school offers traditional Chinese martial arts training in Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and self-defense, serving students of all ages and skill levels across multiple locations.
Services
Traditional Shaolin Kung Fu
Holistic Tai Chi
Kids Martial Arts
Private Instruction
Self Defense Training
Chinese Weapons Training
Highlights and features
- Over 30 years of experience in traditional Chinese martial arts instruction
- No binding contracts required for student enrollment
- Instructors must renew certification every two years
- Scientific approach combining physics with martial arts principles
- Focus on foundational understanding over surface-level techniques
What people say
Experienced instructors
Community atmosphere
Effective training methods
Balanced focus
Practical techniques
Services
Traditional Shaolin Kung Fu
Our Traditional Shaolin Kung Fu program combines ancient techniques with modern scientific principles. Students progress from basic forms to advanced combat applications while developing physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-defense capabilities. The curriculum emphasizes proper biomechanics and practical application of techniques.
Holistic Tai Chi
Holistic Tai Chi instruction focuses on both health benefits and martial applications. Classes teach proper movement patterns, energy cultivation, and self-defense principles through traditional forms. Students improve balance, flexibility, and stress management while learning effective combat techniques.
Kids Martial Arts
Our Kids Martial Arts program develops physical coordination, focus, and confidence in children aged 5-12. Through age-appropriate instruction, children learn basic self-defense, respect, and discipline while improving motor skills and social interaction abilities.
Private Instruction
Private martial arts lessons offer personalized attention for students seeking accelerated progress. Sessions can focus on specific goals like competition preparation, self-defense scenarios, or mastering particular techniques at the student's preferred pace.
Self Defense Training
Real-world self-defense training teaches practical techniques for personal safety. Students learn situational awareness, de-escalation strategies, and effective counterattacks through scenario-based practice while developing physical conditioning and mental preparedness.
People
Chris Workman
Founder
Chris Workman founded Shaolin Arts after decades of studying martial arts and physics. His unique approach combines technical precision with philosophical depth, creating a curriculum that emphasizes understanding over rote memorization.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Traditional Shaolin Kung Fu, Holistic Tai Chi, and Chinese weapons training while incorporating principles from multiple disciplines.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide free trial classes for all our programs to help you experience our training environment and teaching methods.
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for children aged 5+, adults, and seniors, with specialized youth martial arts classes and family training options.
Are there contract requirements?
No, we operate without binding contracts. Our students stay because they value our quality instruction and community atmosphere.
How do you ensure instructor quality?
All instructors must renew their certification every two years and maintain ongoing training to ensure technical accuracy and teaching effectiveness.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes. We provide loaner uniforms for your first few sessions before deciding to purchase formal attire.
