Business Details
43 Years
experience
Martial Arts Training for All Ages in San Francisco
Established in 1983, Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy has been a cornerstone of martial arts training in San Francisco, California. Founded by Grandmaster Tat-Mau Wong, a 10th-degree black belt with decades of experience in Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu, kickboxing, and traditional Chinese martial arts, the academy combines rigorous technical training with a philosophy centered on Integrity, Kindness, Wisdom, and Bravery. Our team of certified instructors, many of whom are masters in their own right, delivers personalized instruction for children, teens, and adults, emphasizing self-defense, physical fitness, and character development.With over 30 years of competition success, including national and international tournament victories, and a commitment to preserving traditional techniques while adapting to modern needs, we provide a supportive environment where students of all skill levels achieve personal growth. Our programs include dynamic Kung Fu forms, kickboxing drills, lion dance performances, and distance learning options, ensuring accessibility for local and global students. Recognized with awards like the San Francisco Bay Guardian's 'Best of the Bay,' we remain dedicated to empowering individuals through martial arts excellence.
Services
Kung Fu Classes
Kickboxing Training
Kids Martial Arts
Lion Dance Performances
Distance Learning Program
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of experience training award-winning martial artists.
- Certified instructors with expertise in Kung Fu, kickboxing, and lion dance.
- Curriculum blending traditional techniques with modern self-defense applications.
- Flexible class schedules for children, teens, and adults.
- Recognized by San Francisco Bay Guardian as 'Best of the Bay.'
What people say
Patient instructors
Great for kids
Improved confidence
Family-friendly atmosphere
Expertise in traditional Kung Fu
Services
Kung Fu Classes
Our Kung Fu classes teach traditional Choy Lay Fut techniques, emphasizing self-defense, physical fitness, and mental discipline. Students learn intricate forms, weapon applications, and sparring strategies in a structured environment. Programs cater to all ages, fostering confidence, coordination, and cultural appreciation through decades-proven methods.
Kickboxing Training
Kickboxing sessions focus on full-contact techniques, including punches, kicks, and grappling. Led by championship instructors, classes prepare students for competition or personal fitness. Training integrates conditioning drills to enhance strength, agility, and cardiovascular health while teaching practical self-defense skills applicable in real-world scenarios.
Kids Martial Arts
Designed for children aged 4-12, our youth programs build focus, discipline, and physical coordination through age-appropriate Kung Fu and self-defense lessons. Instructors use engaging, game-based activities to teach respect and perseverance, helping kids excel academically and socially while gaining confidence through achievable milestones.
Lion Dance Performances
The academy's Lion Dance team performs traditional Chinese routines at festivals, parades, and corporate events. These dynamic performances showcase synchronized movements requiring strength, timing, and teamwork. Participants train extensively in this cultural art form, preserving heritage while competing nationally and internationally.
Distance Learning Program
Our DVD-based distance learning program offers structured Kung Fu instruction for remote students. Each level includes video lessons and manuals covering forms, applications, and theory. Completing all five levels qualifies students for black belt certification under Grandmaster Wong's guidance, maintaining rigorous standards despite remote delivery.
People
Grandmaster Tat-Mau Wong
Founder
A 10th-degree black belt with over 60 years of martial arts experience, Grandmaster Wong established the academy in 1983. He has trained Olympic athletes, authored instructional materials, and received accolades including induction into the Black Belt Hall of Fame. His teaching philosophy emphasizes character development alongside technical mastery.
Master Jeff Chow
Chief Instructor
With 26 years under Grandmaster Wong, Master Chow holds an 8th-degree black belt and has coached USA Sanshou teams internationally. He specializes in competitive sparring and lion dance instruction, blending technical precision with motivational teaching to develop championship-level students.
Sifu Mike Lee
Instructor
A 6th-degree black belt and former Teach For America educator, Sifu Lee combines martial arts expertise with pedagogical skill. He has represented the USA in international competitions and focuses on youth development, using Kung Fu to enhance students' academic and personal growth.
Master Peter Barbosa
Senior Instructor
Brazilian-born Master Barbosa brings 33 years of martial arts experience, including Praying Mantis and Eagle Claw Kung Fu. He emphasizes holistic development, teaching how martial arts improve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being through disciplined practice and cultural understanding.
Sifu Felipe Godoy
Instructor
A 5th-degree black belt with competition experience across four continents, Sifu Godoy specializes in transforming students' confidence through Kung Fu. He holds multiple international gold medals and focuses on practical self-defense applications while maintaining traditional form integrity.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu, kickboxing, and lion dance, with additional instruction in Tai Chi, Chi Gung, and Sanshou.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, try our introductory lesson at half price ($10) for a private or semi-private session.
Are instructors certified?
All instructors are certified by Grandmaster Wong, with many holding 5th-degree black belts or higher and competition experience.
What locations do you serve?
We have academies in San Francisco, San Mateo, and Concord, CA, plus international affiliates in Brazil, Chile, and Arizona.
Can adults with no experience join?
Absolutely. Our curriculum accommodates all skill levels, with many adult students starting with no prior martial arts background.
Do you offer black belt certification?
Yes, through our in-house program and distance learning courses, culminating in testing approved by Grandmaster Wong.
