New Orleans Shaolin
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New Orleans Shaolin
Mission: To preserve and embody the physical and mental practices of the Shaolin Temple martial arts. Tai Chi Chuan is the art of being calm and open, trained both as an advanced martial art and a gentle health practice. The focus of our martial arts program is on fitness, self-defense, mind-body connection, and self-cultivation.

This manifests as a precise movement practice that requires discipling the body, controlling our energy, and focusing the mind on the present moment, through both solo and partner work. In general, the practice is to merge and harmonize all the different aspects of ourselves like body, awareness, energy, and intention.
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For centuries, specific physical and mental exercises have been passed down and refined in the martial art systems of the Chinese Shaolin Temples. Kung Fu and Tai Chi combine the internal awareness of yoga with the power of defense-based exercises, all screened through the Buddhist and Taoist beliefs of the temples.
Living in New Orleans, we need a positive space in our lives to work on improving ourselves and restoring our spirits in a fun, healthy, and supportive atmosphere. Our Shaolin kung fu belt-ranking program offers a time-tested, structured path to strength, mindfulness, efficient use of energy, health, fitness, agility, renewed self-confidence, and personal safety.
Tai Chi Chuan can be translated to mean Yin/Yang Balance Fighting Style. Yin means downward, inward, accommodating. Yang means upward, outward, aggressive. To balance these two opposing and contradictory forces is to find harmony within yourself.

Learn the basics of Tai Chi which primarily focuses on opening the body through joint loosening exercises, learning a little of the Tai Chi form, and scratching the surface of the more subtle aspects of the practice.This online-only class slows down even more to focus in on more internal mechanics and further refine what you've learned in the Beginner Class.
Learning self-defense doesn't have to be about learning the entirety of a traditional martial art. It's an all-levels self defense and fitness class based on the ancient art of kung fu. It distills the most practical and easily-accessible techniques into an effective self defense program while keeping the humble and non-macho atmosphere of traditional kung fu.
Currently Indoors with masks and distance required or outdoors in our fenced-in, private side yard. Affordable monthly fee includes two weekly outdoor classes and occasional videos for home training. What will my child be doing in class? Each class begins with some simple warm up exercises and stretches.
Reviews (17)
Anthony Oscar
Anthony Oscar
Apr 27, 2021
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I had no prior martial arts experience two months ago when I started taking tai chi & kung fu classes at New Orleans Shaolin. I have done some casual yoga over the years, but I wanted something that was more dynamic & also had more of a community feel. What I like most about New Orleans Shaolin is the focus on balancing everything-- from being a student/teacher to developing both internally & externally. I have learned from different students in all of the upper belts & my fellow white belts help each other learn as we go!
Sam is an attentive and supportive instructor & provides very helpful feedback
Julia Hughes
Julia Hughes
Apr 20, 2021
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Positive: Communication, Professionalism, Quality, Value
Sam is an awesome instructor! He taught a self-defense class for a club I am a member of and it was a great experience. Everyone learned a lot and had fun at the same time! I had no prior self-defense experience, but Sam made the class very accessible for everyone!
Joseph Lizer
Joseph Lizer
Jan 24, 2021
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As a martial artist transplanting from Ohio I researched and attended several dojos prior to finding Shaolin do. Each instructor and each class teaches different aspects of kung fu providing the student something to challenge them. The techniques are practical and usable in situations we never want to find ourselves in. To top it off there is a lot of quality sparring in which to hone your skills.
John Krupa
John Krupa
Nov 13, 2020
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I've been practicing at New Orleans Shaolin-Do for two and half years now and can't say enough about how much the program and the instructors have helped me improve my health, strength, balance and mind. I came initially because I had neck and spine pain from a previous injury and had heard tai chi could help with that. After attending several tai chi classes I did feel much improvement but I also got much more interested in the meditative aspects of the practice. I was recommended to try their kung fu program to experience a more intense workout and after attending a free sample class I was hooked
Nuno B.
Nuno B.
Sep 01, 2020
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I started 3 years ago with Shaolin-Do kung fu & Thai chi. Before our school I looked at other schools but chose this because of our tradition going back hundreds of years and still being taught today. I also have my 8year old son in our school and when my daughter is 5-6 she will join also. Our instructors and sifu are very knowledgeable, patient, humbled and understanding with everyone's ability to learn. I have had previous martial arts experience in taekwondo and shotokan and this is definitely a few levels up. I have to say everyone in our school has become my friend and family to
Coral Cyzewski
Coral Cyzewski
Aug 13, 2020
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I take tai chi every Saturday. I always leave the class feeling refreshed and more in-tune with my body. It is clear that Sam is passionate about what he does. I appreciate that New Orleans Shaolin has both online classes and outdoor (distanced and masked )classes right now.
Jeffrey Goldberg
Jeffrey Goldberg
Aug 12, 2020
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I decided to begin my journey with New Orleans Shaolin-Do with the idea to challenge myself in different ways. It has far exceeded my expectations! I have learned so many new things and the school has brought a whole new aspect to my fitness routine. Beyond that it has also led me on a quest to learn more inward about myself. Definitely worth trying and exploring a new side of yourself. The community is also a welcoming family which always feels great. Sifu Sam is awesome!
Maggie White
Maggie White
Jul 09, 2020
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New Orleans Shaolin Do is a wonderful place. Since starting my training there earlier this year, I’ve made a number of friends, become stronger mentally and physically, and am seeing positive effects from my Kung Fu practices manifest in other, unexpected parts of my life. On top of all this, it’s just incredibly fun and joyful. Everyone is SO NICE and down to earth. If you’re looking for a fulfilling new hobby in the New Orleans area, I can’t recommend this place enough.
Ezekiel Compton
Ezekiel Compton
Jul 07, 2020
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Been training here for almost eight years. This studio, and the curriculum in general, has had positive affects in all aspects of my life. From opening an enjoyable path to fitness that lead to interest and engagement in other areas and disciplines, to combining physical practice with meditation and internal development, Shaolin Do is an amazing school. If you're looking for excellent instruction and a welcoming yet challenging atmosphere, come check it out
James Baird
James Baird
Jun 18, 2020
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Positive: Communication, Professionalism, Quality, Value
I enjoyed an outdoor tai chi class at their new studio space. Perfect set up, great space, easy parking and Sam was the best instructor!
Dave W.
Dave W.
Nov 20, 2017
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This place is full of wonderful humble students, passionate about bettering themselves and others. The instructors are knowledgeable and patient, each with years of experience and practice in Shaolin-Do Kung Fu and Tai Chi. Since coming to their classes, my life has completely changed, I've gotten stronger, I've lost 30 lbs, and I even walk differently. I now carry confidence in my every step that a didn't possess before. It doesn't matter if you are 64 yrs old and have never trained before or you feel out of shape and need to work off some holiday bulk. You are welcomed with
Emily D.
Emily D.
Jul 21, 2016
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Took a really awesome self defense course here. Joseph is a fantastic teacher who clearly knows what he is talking about. I feel like I actually learned a lot and it will stick with me and I'm inspired to go back and take more classes!
Giselle D.
Giselle D.
Feb 06, 2016
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I recently gifted my husband a 4 class private with Joseph. He loved it. He said Joseph was very knowledgeable, knew how to teach him with patience and he appreciated the mirroring. He can hardly wait for his next session!
Sam K.
Sam K.
Aug 19, 2014
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With no previous martial arts experience, I started coming to Shaolin-Do New Orleans 4 years ago and have been going ever since. I had previously been doing yoga mostly and kung fu kind of seemed like the next step because it offered the same introspective aspects I liked about yoga but with more of a emphasis on strength and physicality.

In the time I've been there I've enjoyed learning about: general fitness, strength training, self defense, meditation, breathing techniques, animal-based kung fu forms (tiger/crane/mantis/etc), tai chi, pa kua (bagua), weapons forms, and sparring. Along
Ryan B.
Ryan B.
Jun 02, 2013
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My Gateway...

Back in 2009-2010 I found myself going through some tough times and was suffering from some of the bad habits that many New Orleanians find themselves with (smoking, drinking, broken heart disease). In an effort to keep my mind from going too negative, I sought out an activity to get me out of house and help clear my mind. You'll find that many people find martial arts during tough times in their lives and it's hard to explain what it does to you, but as you slowly build your body up, ...your mind, and I guess spirit, follow.

I didn't find martial arts right away
Dan F.
Dan F.
Mar 05, 2013
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Fantastic!

Great training, wonderful community, inspirational and talented instructors.

Get healthy, strong, and peace of mind.

Highest recommendation!
Ar K.
Ar K.
Feb 27, 2013
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My wife and I have been training here for 3 years, and moved through the progression from white belt to black belt under the guidance of Sifu Joseph and other instructors. In the process we have become healthier and stronger.

The material is challenging and tough, but engaging and rewarding, both physically and mentally (and some would say spiritually!). You will have fun, get in better shape, learn how to be a better fighter, and get to learn an awesome ancient mystical art form. We highly recommend Shaolin-Do!