The Chinese Martial Arts and Wellness Center is a community of like-minded individuals whose mission is to foster a culture of health through physical fitness, self-defense, alternative medicine and personal spiritual growth. Our mission is to foster a love and appreciation for ancient martial arts in order to cultivate a life with balance.
Our school seeks to provide a sanctuary for practicing martial artists who wish to develop their bodies, minds, and spirit. Our students are from a diverse set of backgrounds, ages, & skill sets, but our bonds are forged in friendship and respect. Joining our school means you will become a part of a supportive family and community, tied together by our common practice.
Our school seeks to provide a sanctuary for practicing martial artists who wish to develop their bodies, minds, and spirit. Our students are from a diverse set of backgrounds, ages, & skill sets, but our bonds are forged in friendship and respect. Joining our school means you will become a part of a supportive family and community, tied together by our common practice.
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Kung fu is a traditional Chinese Martial Art that was originally developed in China almost two thousand years ago. The term "Kung fu, " meaning "skill achieved through hard work, " can be traced to the Warring States Period of Ancient China (475-251 BC) where practitioners first coined the term. Thinkers at the time sought to train the body and mind through codified practice, and thus to cultivate peace in the midst of chaos and conflict.
Qi Gong literally means "breath exercises" and is an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chinese martial arts and spirituality. The driving force behind its creation was the search for health and longevity. The 18 Active Form of therapeutic Qi Gong is a dynamic way to balance the body, benefit the energy or Qi, focus the mind and engage the spirit.
Qi Gong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, mental and physical health problems are caused by energetic imbalances in the organs and meridians. The flow of energy, or qi, through the internal organs and energetic channels of the body and can affect the emotions; conversely, (more.)
The year was 1975. I was twelve years old and lived in the "New Chinatown" neighborhood of Chicago. Bruce Lee was very popular at the time, and I had just seen one of his movies, The Chinese Connection. Immediately after watching the movie, all I wanted to do was learn kung fu. However, being only twelve, and not knowing where I could find a school, I did not know how I could quench this thirst for knowledge.
Reviews (17)
Dallas R.
Apr 26, 2018
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I feel very unhappy, frustrated, and angry with Sifu and his business practices. For our first scheduled private lesson (April 26th at 8:00 am); He never showed up, nor communicated via any medium (telephonic, text, e-mail) that he would be a total and complete no-show.
What makes it even more disappointing is the time and energy spent (And lost) traversing to navigate, find, and pay for parking to his studio. But the time that I invested into researching a Martial Arts instructor, and amongst the overgrowth of dojo / guru / studio options - choosing this one.
Up until our scheduled meeting
What makes it even more disappointing is the time and energy spent (And lost) traversing to navigate, find, and pay for parking to his studio. But the time that I invested into researching a Martial Arts instructor, and amongst the overgrowth of dojo / guru / studio options - choosing this one.
Up until our scheduled meeting
Laura D.
Apr 24, 2018
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I studied Kung Fu here for 3 months and absolutely loved it! The training is amazing. They really cater to each student's needs and I always felt supported and challenged. I've developed so much mentally and physically in just three months. The community here is amazing. I made very close friends in my short time here. I've been in chicago for 2 years and this is the first time I really found a close knit group of people and a workout environment that has truly helped me grow physically and challenge me, as well as help my anxiety and mental health. I'm moving to California
Barb M.
Jan 25, 2017
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I would strongly recommend the Kids Kung Fu classes being taught at Seven Stars Wellness Center. Our grandson has been attending classes here for one year and the change in him is evident. The teachers here, while holding serious classes, teach with a sense of caring and humor that really engages the kids and makes them eager to learn more. What is so impressive is the respect that the kids have for the teachers and the respect that their teachers have for them. There are no competitive attitudes among the kids as they all realize they are there to work together for the benefit of the class. Our
Adam L.
Jul 09, 2015
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Over the years I have tried different martial arts schools, but it wasn't until happening upon the Chinese Martial Arts school that I found a place where I could really flourish as a student. Sifu Torres takes the traditional approach to teaching Kung Fu, in which progress is based on accomplishment rather than simply how many classes you've attended. Given this fact, that everything you take out is measured by what you put in, the traditional way can be frustrating--it takes discipline! What separates Sifu Torres and his school from the others is passion: he and the senior students are
Douglas B.
Jun 18, 2015
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I am now going on my 10th month of being part of this great school. Sifu Torres and all of my kungfu brothers and sisters have welcomed me, helped me, been super supportive and encouraging. I have become a lot stronger and more agile than I've been in a very looong time; It feels amazing. I have now earned my green/gold sash and am continuing to learn and grow. The classes are still tough and demanding of your body, but I can actually get through them a lot better than when I started.
I also attend regular acupuncture sessions which compliment my training. They keep me healthy and strong
I also attend regular acupuncture sessions which compliment my training. They keep me healthy and strong
Elsa V.
Mar 17, 2015
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For years, I've always had knee problems. It was due to being overweight at a young age and also lack of exercise. A few years ago when I developed my love for exercising, I lost 70 lbs. However, the strain in my knees would always set me back. I was told it was due to the excess weight that I've been carrying for years. My knees would give out here and there, especially when it came to lunges. It was annoying but I kept my focus and did my best.
It's been four (4) weeks now since I took my first Qi Gong class with Sifu Torres at the Chinese Martial Arts School... and the result
It's been four (4) weeks now since I took my first Qi Gong class with Sifu Torres at the Chinese Martial Arts School... and the result
Christopher M.
Jan 09, 2014
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I had been actively seeking out a place to develop a martial arts practice for many years. I would always come close, then inevitably not follow through as I was scared off by the testosterone level or black belt focus of most schools. After an injury I had pretty much given up on looking for a school. I found Sifu Yamel when I was in need of acupuncture. Sifu suggested a combination of Acupuncture, Qigong, and herbs which made a huge difference. Within a few months I was able to do things that were unthinkable only a few short months prior. Studying Qigong with Sifu changed everything for
Tony C.
Oct 02, 2012
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For the past two years I've been studying mantis style kung fu at Chinese Martial Arts. It is a very traditional school where you will work hard.
The school itself is a great. There is a sense of family that is instilled- everyone is working together and supporting each other. The instructors are fantastic as well. The sifu, Yamel Torres, is terrific and exactly what you'd want in an instructor. He is patient and understanding but will also push you to do your best. As a student of the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, he offers accupuncture, herbs, and other medicines/treatments
The school itself is a great. There is a sense of family that is instilled- everyone is working together and supporting each other. The instructors are fantastic as well. The sifu, Yamel Torres, is terrific and exactly what you'd want in an instructor. He is patient and understanding but will also push you to do your best. As a student of the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, he offers accupuncture, herbs, and other medicines/treatments
Holly L.
Sep 24, 2012
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I feel fortunate to have found this traditional martial arts school, where the teacher, Sifu, and students are dedicated to the methods of Kung Fu as well as the spirit and character Kung Fu requires. The training is rigorous and demanding, with great rewards in discovering what you can push your body to do. Sifu instills a deep sense of respect for the long history and lineage of Seven Star Mantis. He is an exceptional teacher, a tough coach who cares for each student's well-being and development. The curriculum will challenge your flexibility, strength, and endurance. You will find
Francisco H.
Jul 29, 2012
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If you are looking for the "real deal" look no further than Sifu Yamel Torres. He is about as traditional as they get. I have spent many years with bowls (with and without water) on my thighs during horse stance training.
I have been going to see Sifu Yamel Torres for better than 11 years now and don't ever see myself not being part of the school. I now take private lessons and haven't been to a class in about two years, but I assure you that they haven't changed a bit.
Foundation is the core to any sport or study and even today I still work my foundation several times
I have been going to see Sifu Yamel Torres for better than 11 years now and don't ever see myself not being part of the school. I now take private lessons and haven't been to a class in about two years, but I assure you that they haven't changed a bit.
Foundation is the core to any sport or study and even today I still work my foundation several times
Dave L.
Jun 29, 2011
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I first found Sifu and Chinese Martial Arts in 2010 - I had recovered enough from a back injury to get active again and was looking for something that would help me build strength. It's no exaggeration to say that finding this school has helped to change my life! Sifu teaches a very traditional line of Kung Fu, along with Qi Gong and Tai Chi as others have mentioned. The Qi Gong was great to start out with to build some base strength and flexibility. Kung Fu was a natural follow-on, and I have been studying it avidly since I first started. This was my first martial arts experience, but I can
Danielle A.
Apr 22, 2011
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I have been coming to Chinese Martial Arts since 2004. Tucked away on Ravenswood, it is a wonderful traditional school for learning kungfu. Yet there is a welcoming, almost family-like atmosphere developed by the students and Sifu. You will have a second family.
A person can choose to do traditional 7* Preying Mantis Kung-fu, or tai-chi/qigong, or do both to round out the experience. Either will provide a workout not achieved by merely having a gym membership.
I have been doing kung-fu for a number of years here. I have been pushed (in a good way) and encouraged to do things that I did
A person can choose to do traditional 7* Preying Mantis Kung-fu, or tai-chi/qigong, or do both to round out the experience. Either will provide a workout not achieved by merely having a gym membership.
I have been doing kung-fu for a number of years here. I have been pushed (in a good way) and encouraged to do things that I did
Anna A.
Aug 28, 2010
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I've done yoga since I was a little girl. I teach yoga. I'm all about yoga; I love it. But I have to admit: since I've started studying Kung Fu here, I actually look forward to Kung Fu class (dare I admit it...) a little bit more than yoga class.
I didn't know much about the martial arts world when I found this school, but what appealed to me was the traditional nature of the school, where great respect is paid to the lineage of teachers, and the forms and styles that are taught here. It's a very different "work out" experience than being in a yoga class
I didn't know much about the martial arts world when I found this school, but what appealed to me was the traditional nature of the school, where great respect is paid to the lineage of teachers, and the forms and styles that are taught here. It's a very different "work out" experience than being in a yoga class
Faarooq L.
Jul 14, 2010
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I have been a student at Chinese Martial Arts for 9 years and I am proud to say that I wouldn't have chosen another school above this one.
The rigors of training have molded me into the Martial Artist that I have become, it has increased my work habits and has increased my mental toughness.
My two sons are also students here and I have seen the traditional training methods benefit both of them as well.
For anyone serious about training martial arts, traditional Chinese martial arts, this is the premier school in the city.
The rigors of training have molded me into the Martial Artist that I have become, it has increased my work habits and has increased my mental toughness.
My two sons are also students here and I have seen the traditional training methods benefit both of them as well.
For anyone serious about training martial arts, traditional Chinese martial arts, this is the premier school in the city.
Peter P.
Apr 29, 2010
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My wife and I began studying at Chinese Martial Arts several years ago and we couldn't be happier. The traditional training methods don't make us feel like we're participating in a cookie-cutter program. Our Sifu is incredibly knowledgeable and guides our progression toward our individual strengths and goals. We compliment our kung fu training with Tai Chi and Qi Gong for more well-rounded development which my wife credits for keeping her active during her pregnancy and making labor easier. Our Sifu practices Traditional Chinese Medicine (herbs and acupressure), and the school also
Josh B.
Mar 28, 2010
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I was doing Karate for over a year and moved this past January up to Lakeview. I liked Karate but wanted something more traditional. This place has it. The instructor is wonderful and patient and very traditional. All the students are friendly and patient.
For anyone interested in exploring the Martial Arts or looking for a change this is the place.
For anyone interested in exploring the Martial Arts or looking for a change this is the place.
Mark B.
Jun 03, 2008
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I've been attending lessons at Chinese Martial Arts since 2004, so I guess you could say I like this place. This is a very traditional Kung Fu (Seven Star Northern Shaolin Praying Mantis Style) school that focuses on building a solid foundation before learning how to apply any of the techniques. Therefore, students will spend a fair amount of time building their basic fitness (endurance, flexibility, strength) while mastering the basic boxing techniques and kicks. One advantage to this program is that students can learn as quickly or slowly as they want, depending on their own commitment
