Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy

My 5 year old loves it--great camaraderie, fantastic instructors!

Reviewed on Facebook

The instructors at Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy have gotten me into the best shape of my life!

Reviewed on Facebook

Awesome training with great instructors and great training partners. Everyone welcomes you as part of the team. Everyone is happily willing to help you to understand forms, techniques and application of self defense, forms, weapons, everything......"No Excuse.... Just Train"

Reviewed on Facebook

I've trained here for 14 years and continue my training here. This is an excellent academy with very well thought out instruction. The instructors know how to lead an educational class while keeping the pace both exciting and entertaining. I've never had a class that didn't make me leave in a puddle of sweat and thrilled at my next class.

Cherry on top?: nothing gets your stress and aggression out better than punching and kicking pads.

Try a few classes and you'll be hooked! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

My two boys (ages 5 and 7) started taking Kung Fu classes at Tat Wong this past memorial day.  This place is incredible! Highly, highly recommend it.  We have felt incredibly welcomed from day one and feel like we're part of a community.  The boys LOVE the instructors and coming to class.  If it were up to them, they would probably come everyday.  The instructors have this way about them that make each class incredibly engaging and rewarding.  Needless to say, the boys are learning a lot and making good progress.  We look forward to being part of this community for years to come! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

So more than 13 years ago, I was a student at the Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy. I left after training here on and off for about 2-3 years. But I still kept in touch with everyone there. It's really like a family. Now that I have a son, I have always encouraged him to pursue martial arts, but I never pressured or forced him to... I just let him watch lots of kung fu movies and Ip man hahaha (no pressure!). Finally he told me "mom! I want to do kung fu!" DONE! I enrolled him at the Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy at 3 years old, he was not quite ready and did not have the discipline for kung fu quite yet. I love how they teach him not just about kung fu, but about the art, the discipline, strength, to ONLY use it in the form of self defense (if you're defending yourself or defending someone else) and most of all, about respect. I am happy my son is at TWKFA and so proud to be apart of the Tat Wong Family. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

The best Kung Fu system on the planet.Sifu Felipe is among the top 1% of instructors globally.

Reviewed on Yelp

I've trained under Grand Master Wong for over 25 years. I've studied several different arts at many different schools and settled here. The instructors are  skilled at teaching to all levels. I've seen them training beginners and the most advanced students, children and seniors, and they are expert at bringing out the best in everyone. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Since joining Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy, my 3 year-old daughter has become more focused and disciplined, and I've noticed a vast improvement in her overall behavior. The instructors and staff are all professional, courteous, and not to mention, world class martial artists. I'd highly recommended this school for anyone wanting to learn martial arts. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

This place rocks!  I am so glad I started training in Kung Fu here.  I am over 60, and have been training at Tat Wong for about 10 years.  I feel as if I haven't aged at all during the last 10 years! The program is multi-faceted and well balanced between kick boxing, conditioning and strength training, traditional Kung Fu forms and moves, self-defense, and Chinese weapons.  The teachers and staff are very knowledgeable and supportive, and the classes are fun.   It does cost some money, but it is definitely worth it.  They also have an excellent kids program. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is my 3 yr old son's first actual organized group activity and he loves it. First of all as a parent I love the that you can go any 2 days of the week that you can fit into your schedule. There is only one Tiger team class a day but if you can't make the weekday classes there's always the weekend. My son definitely enjoys his classes and looks forward to going there. The teachers are all so patient with the kids and holds their attention throughout the lesson.  It is an expensive activity but they do have a monthly payment plan or you can pay for the whole 5 months for a reduced rate. Also, you have to buy the uniform for an additional fee. It might not be for everyone but I would definitely recommend it to people with young kids. It's a great alternative to other activities that usually require more of a time commitment. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We've been on two journeys at Tat Wong with two sons.With the first son, the experience was good.  Fast forward about 8 years and the experience with the second son has been excellent.  I attribute this to the continuous improvements that the academy has made.  Their instructors really know what they are doing and work very well with people of all ages.  They are extremely disciplined and have high standards, but show a really nice light touch with the kids.They emphasize many things including respect and decency toward other people.  That shows in the daily pledge that the students make and in the way the instructors observe and treat their students.Watching my children attend many classes over the years, it's heartening to see the benefits of this kind of program.  It does wonders for self confidence, motor skills, reflexes, and agility.  We've seen our kids really blossom in other sports and I attribute a lot of that to the Kung Fu skills they've learned at Tat Wong.A special shout out to the head instructor, Sifu Felipe, who connects so well with the kids in his classes and finds the most constructive ways to get his students to focus on what they need to improve. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been meaning to write this for awhile because I think positive reviews are important for businesses that deserve them.  :)  Having said that, I hope as well that it will be helpful to anyone who is looking for more information or opinions about TWKFA.My daughter has been going to TWKFA for over a year and a half and is still excited to go and learn every week!  I waited a couple of years before letting her get involved with martial arts knowing it would be a bit commitment of time & money.  She never lost interest and kept asking, so when we saw the TWKFA Lion Dance Troupe perform for Lunar New Year that year she begged me, as usual, to take lessons- and I said yes!  I haven't regretted it and she hasn't looked back.  I am SO amazed and pleased at how wonderful and patient the instructors are with the kids.  Truly.  They have never treated the kids with anything but respect and they thrive.  Sihing Lee is awesome with the Tiger group (pre-schoolers).  They are so cute and they love him.  My daughter is in the Junior classes (school age) which multiple instructors will lead and they'll have extra staff on hand as well to help out.  I don't have a background in martial arts but have seen friends kids at other school and this school is definitely the most impressive/motivating of all our experiences.  She has had great instruction, experiences, and opportunities to both participate-in, and achieve through.So knowing that I was interested in turning over a new leaf and making a commitment to myself to create a healthier life, I enrolled in adult classes myself a little over a year ago.  My experience might be helpful to people because I am still in the early stages of learning and training.  I am really pleased with how kind and positive everyone is.  Sometimes I think, "What is wrong with these people?  How are they so positive and happy?"  It's funny but true.  My biggest challenge has been the commitment.  It is so easy to give up.  As adults-professionals-parents people have SO many other things to do and so many other places to be.  But to me, the commitment to improving my health and creating a better lifestyle for myself and my family is really important right now.  I couldn't wait or put it off any longer.  I was beginning to see the negative physical effects of stress, sitting at a desk all day (or in a car, etc), and compromising too much on my diet.  So, here I am.  It's been a blessing to be able to participate.  The goal was to be healthier, significantly rehabilitate my core strength (which felt like it was all but gone), lose weight, learn/achieve something new, and basically just do something for "myself" for once.  It is still a work in progress, but I can see and feel a difference!  I have noticeably improved in all the items listed above- yay me!  :)  And I'm not going to lie, it's been challenging both in class and in life to keep it up, but its a lifestyle change for the better!I've had to adjust to kung fu being an individual sport based on personal learning and achievement, but wanted that for my daughter, as we both previously had been solely focused on team sports.  Also related to that, it is a gym/training environment, not a sports field/outdoor environment- though they do organize a great tournament and outdoor boot camps so we don't have to miss out.  Also the seminars are great opportunities to learn something new, try new things, or reinforce something you already know.  It's a great way to mix up training too, which they are always doing and I enjoy.  And we also like the community events like lion dancing, lunar new year parade, pot lucks, etc., and LOVE the flexibility of being able to attend various classes based on our own availability!Long story short: this is great and you do get out of it what you put in- physical/mental challenge, positivity, health & fitness, core strength, success, confidence, etc.  Plus,  this place is super positive and family oriented.Good Work Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy San Mateo!  Thank You for supporting us in our journey to a healthy, family-positive lifestyle! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This Kung Fu Academy is fantastic and has a lot to offer all experience levels.  It is fun and friendly environment.  The entire teaching staff is professional and real role models.  There is Kung Fu, kickboxing and a lot of specialty techniques and classes, such as sword, staff, nunchucks, sparring, boot camp, self-defense and tournaments.  There are a lot of students, training by level (belts) and divided into kids, juniors and teen/adult.  It is a wonderful environment to work on your fitness objectives, whether it is get in shape, weight loss, self-defense, self-confidence, endurance, balance, competition, sparring and more.  If you are considering martial arts, I recommend trying an introductory class or trial period.  I have been going for two years 1-3x/week and it is one of the highlights of my week every week. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My kids started at TWKFA at the age of four; my son stopped when he went to college but my 20 year old daughter still takes classes when she can. The kids were having so much fun that my husband and I started taking classes in our mid-40s. That was almost 13 years ago.Unlike many martial arts programs, TWKFA has its deep roots in kung fu traditions, it has a formal instructor training program, a bevy of instructors from which to learn (not just one or two people) and a history of students staying in the program for a very long time. It can become a second family.For kids:The programs are fun with a purpose. The youngsters learn self defense and get exercise while having a good time. The values they learn through the gentle and patient teachings of the instructors are incredible. When my son was in third grade he struggled with the times tables. I overheard him in his room one night repeating to himself the encouragement his kung fu teachers had given him related to his forms---but he had modified so that it related to math. Both kids have a calm, non-violent confidence that they carry with them and TWKFA is responsible. The confidence has helped them in situations where kids were trying to bully my son in middle school and it recently helped my daughter who was cornered by an unwelcome guest in her dorm room. In both cases not a punch was thrown.For adults:Regardless of your age, gender, fitness or comfort level with actually throwing a punch, the instructors will adapt and find a way to teach you. It's what they love, and they do whatever it takes to get you to a level of comfort. Whether your interests are in self-defense, fitness, sparring, padwork, the beautiful forms, cool kung fu weapons, confidence building....this program has it. At the end of the day, the classes will give you a great workout and you'll learn not just kung fu but you'll learn a lot about yourself. You may think this is just not "you" (as a 44 year old woman, I thought "no way")---but it very quickly becomes a hugely fun workout with a purpose and you'll get to meet some super friendly people! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We have been been bringing our 4 year-old for about two and a half months, twice a week.  We are super happy--the teachers are terrific with the kids, It's great exercise, well organized, flexible scheduling, and my son loves it.

Reviewed on Yelp

Have been attending this school for the past 4.5 years and so far have only nice things to say about it, granted I have not had much martial arts experience before, but was always fascinated with the art of Kung Fu. Combination of traditional Kung Fu forms and kickboxing/sanshou classes gives you a chance to experience both aspects of the art as well as keeps you in shape. Sifu Felipe and the rest of the staff are very good at what they do and the atmosphere during classes is fun and full of energy which makes you work hard. At the same time instructors are very carefull to make sure you don't overwork or injure yourself. Everybody treats each other with respect regardess if your belt level, gender, race or age and at this point for me every class feels more like workout with the family. Pricewise, in my oppinion, it's very comparable to other gym membership and they have multiple payment options available to fit your needs. Summer sanshou bootcamp classes are definitely the highlights of the year for me. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Both my children attend TWKF academy.  I can't say enough good things about this place.  The instructors are very attentive to the students needs, practice and form. Good structure and group management. Always...always...always positive! Ive seen my kids develop confidence and discipline in ways thay i didnt expect, particularly  in school.  Highly recommend. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have 2 kids age 7 (girl) & 9 (boy) who are currently at Tat wong. They have been with the school for over 3 yrs. The instructors and staff are GREAT! They have taught my children to be strong competitors, performers, & teaches them to be Strong, and to be Brave, Wise, and Kind to one another. We are Happy with the results of this school and what they teach my kids, my kids are happy to be at Tat Wong day in and day out.I would highly recommend Tat Wong! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My entire family has trained here for years.  The instructors and many of the students are like family now.  My college age son helps out there on the weekends.  My shy, kindergarten age daughter isn't so shy anymore.  My wife finds kung fu an excellent way to release stress and stay in shape.  I recommend it highly. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I started training at Tat Wong at the ripe old age of 43 because I had fallen out of shape and I wanted to get back to better health.  I have been training with Sifu Felipe and the amazing TWKFA staff for four years so far and I'm probably in the best shape I've been in in ten years!  I can't recommend them higher! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been training here for about 13 years. Straight up - if you're looking for THE place to train your body and mind, you've found it. The combination of developing techniques in both Chinese Kung Fu and kickboxing has been awesome for me.Through the excellent training I've received from the instructors here and GrandMaster Tat Wong himself, I have won gold in many international competitions. If you want to start a journey of martial arts... Like I've said above, look no further! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

First, a little background on this reviewer: I've studied northern-style Shaolin Kung Fu for 8 years in a different country, was an instructor for six years, and competed both nationally and internationally as a state representative. I knew since then that I was married to Kung Fu. When I moved here, I wanted to make sure I chose the right place. So I did my research, I visited a few places, read some reviews. And even though this one was a different style than mine, I picked this one. I've met a lot of Masters/Head Instructors over my lifetime, and I thoroughly enjoy Sifu Felipe's character and integrity. Very professional, very friendly, great with kids, and not at all condescending or conceited. He sets a great example for the instructors-in-training, and I have never seen any "black-belt attitude" coming from him or any of the instructors, or even the instructors at the main school in San Francisco. I can tell you from experience that way they administer the Tat Wong schools is very similar to the way they manage a lot of other martial arts schools all over the world. Tae Kwon Do, Wu Shu, Karate, it doesn't matter. There is an effective management system that is shared by a lot of schools, because though they teach martial arts, they still have to pay overhead. So while membership is not "cheap", it's comparable to the rest of what you find on this side of the Bay Area. Instructors have families and this is their livelihood, so they have to consider achieving a profit margin. You will see most of them working at least 6 days a week.(7 for some extra training on certain Sundays)As with most martial arts, they're in the business of forming well-rounded individuals, not just athletic people who can kick and punch. So yes, students will be asked to help out at events, tournaments, or volunteer to teach. I have seen shy, socially-awkward students grow and transform into these confident, well-spoken young men and women who you can be put in charge of a class or crowd in a minute's notice and handle it like leaders. Always good to remember: You get what you put in, so people who train by putting their best effort, working hard and helping out will achieve so many more benefits-social, mental, emotional, physical- than those who don't. But most of all what I was looking for was family. I sorely missed my old "kung-fu" family, and I was very happy to find that here. There is a wonderful mix of really friendly, polite people of all different ethnicities and backgrounds, and you are welcome regardless of your ability level or age. There's kung-fu and social events year-round that you can participate in and make friends in the process. It's a win-win! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My son has been going to Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy since the age of 9.  Martial Arts was recommended to us by the Resource Teacher as a way to increase our son's learning skills in memory recall and abstract thinking (thinking off the cuff. )  He has a learning disability called Auditory Processing.  There is a disconnect between what his ears hear and what his brain processes.  For example, if words are used out of context such as "hot under the collar", he will not understand because his understanding is more "black and white."  There were times when he was younger where he would get frustrated being able to explain himself and would go into the bathroom and cry.  The teachers at Tat Wong took the time to understand him and would listen and ask questions of us in order to give him the best instruction possible.  As a parent of a child with a learning disability, I am especially cognizant of other children with learning or physical disabilities.  What I have always been aware of is the sensitivity towards all of the children and adults who have walked through the doors who may have a disability, obvious or hidden.  At Tat Wong, everyone tries TO THE BEST OF HIS ABILITY.  Growth within the individual; THAT is what counts at Tat Wong.  Our son is now a confidant young man who, after volunteering for several years as an assistant, is now learning how to become a competent instructor.  He is becoming more comfortable "thinking on his feet" and, while he will always have Auditory Processing difficulties, the instructors are continually helping him grow, not only as an instructor but also as a person.  They have become an extended family to him, a place he can turn to in addition to his family. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My daughter has been attending TWKFA for the past nine years and is a second-degree black belt. We're very happy with this school! I brought my kids to the studio on the recommendation of a friend years ago. I thought my young son would like to learn martial arts but it was my daughter that fell in love with it. She tried other things like dance and softball but didn't find her own sport until coming to Tat Wong. Over the years, she found that she felt better after a hard workout and really appreciated getting strong and fit. This kind of "exercise while playing" is the best kind for growing kids, especially teens who have to deal with all kinds of stress at home and school.They offer many different payment plans. Since she was an ongoing student, we paid for years at a time and got a great discount. This way, she had the option of going any day of the week, up to 5 days of classes if she wanted. She didn't feel pressured to go if she had homework and usually ended up going 3 days a week. They also offer special classes on the weekend, like special weapons or self-defense training. Another perk is performing at the Chinese New Year parade in S.F. with TWKFA for many years.This school has always had a good reputation for teaching kids of all ages and they work with families to help them achieve their goals. The teachers are very friendly and genuinely dedicated to their craft. Most of the teachers started out as students at TWKFA themselves and stay for most of their lives as part of their extended family. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I hardly ever take the time to write reviews but I want others to know how wonderful this school is. I joined about 4 years ago at age 56! !!! The instructors have been so wonderful and supportive. I can't always do the jumps, but I am encouraged to do what I can. I love the friendliness and feel I'm part of a larger family. The challenge of remembering the complex forms and self defense keep me challenged mentally, while the workout leaves me definitely challenged physically. I am now stronger and healthier than I was 15 years ago when I was working out at a local gym. Sifu Felipe, Sehing Kevin, Sihing Brandon and all the other instructors are so talented and knowledgeable and they have pushed me much further than I would have ever thought possible. Thank you to TWKFA! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My two sons are students at TWKFA.  My oldest has been studying here for almost 5 years and my youngest for almost 4 years.  I looked at 3 other studios in the Belmont/San Carlos/San Mateo area when we first started and even attended another studio for 2 months before finally finding TWKFA, so you could say that I'm a little picky.  The kid-friendly instructors are a main reason I chose TWKFA.  Sifu Felipe is especially awesome with the kids.  All the instructors motivate my kids in a positive way. My boys really enjoy attending classes and they get a great workout at the same time.  My boys also participate in seasonal team sports, and I love that TWKFA has a flexible schedule with classes at different times on each day of the week so that we can adjust the days we attend depending on our baseball and soccer practice days and times, which change every few months.  This is a HUGE positive point for our family.The cost is comparable to other studios in the area (in fact,  it was the same as the other, lesser quality studio we had tried before coming here).  In the realm of kids' sports, it costs significantly less than club soccer; my kids are getting a full-body workout, learning discipline and respect for themselves, others, and adults, and getting a cultural experience.  I highly recommend TWKFA. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been taking kickboxing lessons at Tat Wong for more years than I'd like to admit.  I've seen positive and negative reviews on here over the years and I thought it's about time I share my experience with them.  Basically it comes down to this: You get out of it what you put into it.  The teachers are always "on", meaning they are physically and mentally "there" and into it.  You learn by going regularly and forcing yourself to improve and it's not a quick process.  I think people somehow believe that in one month or three months or even a year that they will be a black belt.  It takes patience and commitment.  The teachers notice regular attendance and acknowledge improvement.  There have been many times over the last few years that I have not been able to go regularly (work, illness, injury.. life, in general) and have been frustrated with my lack of endurance and backsliding of progress on my return.  It's all up to you.  Trust me, these teachers always give their best.  The monthly fee is a little pricey, but when you think what you get out of it physically and mentally, it's actually a bargain. Also, there is a small but functional gym in the basement in addition to some treadmills on the main floor.  The one negative thing that I could say about the school is the charge to re-sign up, which seems a little much and somewhat insulting. But still, I'm giving full stars to Tat Wong and all of the dedicated staff there. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place has seen it's ups and downs over the years.I used to go here when I was a kid with family to train up.I don't know what it's like now. But I recalled that it was a place converted from a house into a school of martial arts.if you need a place to train, try here. But it's gonna cost you a bit for equipment. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place is very nice. Martial arts, sparring, kickboxing, and weapons are all taught here. The teachers are very talented, and this place is two stories. There is a boxing ring, and there is a martial arts studio floor. There is a workout place downstairs that is underground. I miss the other Tat Wong studio that they used to have on Clement street. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Tat Wong is great for kids.  A school that does too much drilling and repetition will burn out the average young student. Teaching in a way that allows kids  to have fun will ensure better long term results and that philosophy shows at Tat Wong with the excellent black belts that trained there from an early age .Classes vary in size but there are plenty of instructors on hand so students get the attention they need. Prices seem reasonable to me and parents can get in a workout while kids train which is an added bonus. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My son was interested in taking a Martial Arts class and I chose Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy because the instructors take the art very seriously and it's real Kung Fu training. The other schools I looked at were more just kids in uniform running around for 30 mins. Sifu Felipe is very structured and each and every minute of class is used for instruction. Sifu Felipe and his staff focus on kung fu training and each class is different. I also like how they incorporate fitness into the class as I want my child exposed to these things at an early age. I think pricing is competitive considering you get to go to classes twice a week for 45 mins. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We have been students here since 2005.  The instructors are top notch and fully engaged with their students.  They devote the time required for each student to learn at a comfortable pace yet still maintaining a group instruction feel. Training at the Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy has given my son a great place to make friends, learn the discipline that Kung Fu brings, and learn how to set and achieve personal goals.Sifus Meng and Felipe and the rest of the teaching staff are fantastic!  I highly recommend their program.  Congratulations on a great school!  Five stars all around! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My son has been going there for three years, all the instructors including Phillipe and Ming are incredible. They are all suportive and helpful to the kids and encourge positive thinking and self defense. They do not encourage kids to fight in school, and do great about making sure the kids are behaving at home and school before promoting. When my son was in kindergarten another girl was picking on him and he wouldn't stick up for himself, this girl was leaving bruises on him! Finally I had a talk with Si fu Phillipe and he talked to my son, telling him to use his voice to tell her no, and to tell a teacher. After that the girl didn't pick on him! I've never felt pressured into a contract, they do impress on us however when they are having a sale and to try to renew then. But if I didn't want to do something they were never rude. When you do sign up they tell you unless you move they will not give you your money back, this is a legally binding contract! So it's at their discretion to give a refund. I've know adults who took the class and not been able to complete it due to medical problems, and they have given a refund. But just because you don't like it anymore, or it gets too hard doesn't mean they have to give you a refund, they do have a trial period, which we took advantage of untill we knew if our son liked it. This school has done so much for our family, I can't stress how great and nurturing they are! Please check them out! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been a student here for the last 6 years and have loved every minute of it. From learning traditional martial arts and then full contact kick boxing training, my weight has plummeted - I'm in my late 30's and feel better and fitter than I did in my 20's. The teachers and staff are very supportive and will push you further than you ever thought you could be pushed. The whole school, with the various branches around the Bay Area, has a collegiate feel to it and I've also made a lot more friends than I ever imagined. Even if you're unsure about taking up martial arts, try it out for a short time - you may just surprise yourself with what you can achieve. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My 4.5 year old has been a student at Tat Wong for over six month, and he absolutely LOVES it!! The instructors are so good with kids. They take the time to really teach, not just go through the motions.  Can't say enough good things about there kid programs!  Highly recommended :) More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place rocks!  I am so glad I started training in Kung Fu here.  I am in my 50's and have been training at Tat Wong for about 5 years.  The program is multi-faceted and well balanced between kick boxing, conditioning and strength training, traditional Kung Fu forms and moves, self-defense, and Chinese weapons.  The teachers and staff are very knowledgeable and supportive, and the classes are fun.   It does cost some money, but it is worth it.  They also have an excellent kids program. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I joined the Tat Wong Kung Fu & Kickboxing Academy in January 2009.  As my annual resolution to myself, my first goal was to get back into shape in 2009 after several years of doing nothing.  Instead of just joining a gym and lift weights, I wanted something more.  Something that would not only stimulate me physically, but intellectually, as well.  So, I decided to try out Kung Fu.  Less than two years into it, I have lost over 42+ pounds and I am in the best shape ever!  I feel like I am 25 again!  I just love it!  Master Tat-Mau Wong and all of his instructors are all great, very positive, and inspirational.  They are very dedicated and work very hard.  They are positive role models for myself and for all of their students to emulate.  Very personable, very supportive, and always professional.  Everyone is very nice and friendly there.  It is like a family there.  Not only learning Kung Fu itself, more importantly, you also learn to how to use Kung Fu principles in daily life and in dealing with others.  Frankly speaking, it's a real simple concept once you figure it out.  What you get out of it is based on what you put into it.  You really have to earn it.  You are always encouraged to work harder and to push yourself.  You just have to stick to it and stick around long enough to get any benefits of going to this school.  You've just got to understand that it doesn't happen over night nor happens by itself!!  You have to work at it.  The only way to get good is to always keep on practicing.  They don't just give the belts away!!  The Tat Wong Kung Fu & Kickboxing Academy is the best and most successful school for a reason!  They just do it right!  Joining the Tat Wong Kung Fu & Kickboxing Academy has been the best thing that I've done in my life!!  I am very grateful.  I am very proud to be a student of the Tat Wong Kung Fu & Kickboxing Academy!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

At 5' & 178 lbs, like many Americans I was fighting the weight battle. I'm not the spandex, step-master type and need a more disciplined purposeful workout.  One saturday while shopping on Clement Street I heard all this yelling so I looked in the school to see a class in session. The students looked to range from teenagers to adults.  And I thought to myself, "is this something I could do?" I saw a flyer offering a $10 Introductory Lesson, so I signed up.  In today's economy we all have to budget our finances to make ends meet so choosing to take Kung Fu classes at the Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy was not a difficult decision to make (especially since my investment was in me and my health).  Kung Fu is a personal commitment, how does the saying go, "you can lead a horse to water, but..."  And, amazing as it may sound I stand now at 5'1" & 135 lbs.  The last eighteen months has been the best investment of time and money.  I invite you to come down and take the $10 Introductory Lesson, they have several plans that may suit you, check it out for yourself and you be the judge. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I am going on my 4th year with Tat Wong Academy, and what can I say?  I love this place!  For the first time in my life, I can have a slice of pizza for a midnight snack, or drink as much  beer as I want without feeling any guilt the next day (please note: that doesn't mean I drink beer or eat pizza every night). Still, I am in the best shape ever.  Don't get me wrong.  I was never overweight, but I was always insecure about a little flab here and a little flab there.  Guess what?  The insecurity is gone.  Of course, besides joining the Tat Wong family, a lot of hard work and sweat were spent to make that happen, and I encourage you to do the same.  Tat Wong Academy offers either kung fu training, kickboxing or both.  Besides the main studio floor, there's also a large workout room with weights, machines, and punching bags, a cardio-room,  and a separate men and women changing room with lockers.  Oh yeah, the bathrooms have stall showers.  What more can you want?Luxury? Forget it!  The building used to be a bank, so don't expect marble floors or tile walls.  It's now a studio, so it looks and smells like a studio.  Quite frankly, I will be uncomfortable if it didn't.  Oh, btw - if you are a parent and have younger children and want them to have some extra-curricular activities.  You can stop looking.  This is a great place for your child to release their energy and learn the importance of discipline and good health.  Please note: there is a specific time schedule for different levels & age group.  It's a group workout environment, but instructors often give personal review and practice lessons.    Enjoy! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

It's definitely not for everyone but if you happen to love martial arts then it's a good place for a broad overview all all aspects of Choy Li Fut. You learn forms, techniques, self-defense, traditional weapons, and lion dancing. I earned my black sash 9th level in 1997 and worked hard for it. I haven't been back for almost 10 years but it did give me a sense of accomplishment and training to physically prepare me for just about anything. My old school instructors were Siheng Tomazaki, Siheng Johnny, and  Siheng Roberts. I dunno about now but I learned all the street/practical stuff after class. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I studied at the Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy for over a decade and had a wonderful experience. I started when I was 13 and was active all the way through college. I made life long friends and was lucky enough to meet my husband there. My father chose the school for me and told me that he wanted me to try Chinese boxing. Chinese boxing, I thought, what in the world would that be like? I went with him to check it out and it looked pretty cool. He signed me up that day and I started in the Adult & Teenager class. Everyone was really friendly and the workouts were great. I'd tried other things before (gymnastics, basketball, tap dance, bicycling, etc.), but nothing really stuck until kung fu. The classes were really fun and it was a great place for me to go after school. I eventually became an assistant instructor (teaching the children) and was also part of the lion dance team. I went to lots of different tournaments traveling with the team. I also participated in dozens of parades & performances and was able to help out with the school's tournaments. The time I spent at the TWKFA growing up helped shape me into the person I am today. I'm grateful to my father for finding the best school for me. He actually visited the school and one of their tournaments before he even told me he wanted me to try kung fu. He observed the students, Master Tat Wong, and the instructors and saw that they were really like a family. Everyone was helping each other out no matter what level they were.  That was really important.  My father wanted a school with a good environment for me. So, if you're interested in kung fu, I say go take a look and check it out. Observe how the instructors teach and see if it's right for you. I know it was the best place for me. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I trained here from when it opened in early 2000 till mid-'02, when I left SF for Austin, TX. I LOVED training as a kickboxer. It's really addictive. I wasn't trying to lose weight, either, but I lost about 18 lbs. without even trying or thinking about it -- the workouts are that intense. I was on the black belt track, and worked out about 3 or 4 times a week at the kickboxing studio. Sifu Jeff is an incredible instructor, very inspiring and motivating. All us black belt students had intense friendships that grew from sweating and sparring together. We even traveled to Chiang Mai, Thailand, to train with Muay Thai fighters! It pretty much doesn't get any cooler than that. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

*kung fu, kung fu, kung fu* [now, say it in chinese]*gggoong foo,  gggoong foo, gggoong foo*yea, you heard me .. what UP foo? =DLMAO~* i think i've found a new hobby ... well, kinda "new" ... hahaha .. yeeeup! you heard it, first on yelp, gave my body a full on 180 twist and was in for a funky work out ... and for surely enough, i fell in love ... with kickboxing and perhaps kung fu... *smiles* oh yea, the adrenaline rush i tend to seek~*why ggoong fu of all times? well, came here and took a preview/quick/crash course, and have to say, it was definitely fun and rewarding, but seems like i'm going to gear towards kickboxing, on top of my pilates i do few times a week, to better shape up and shed a few lbs.i've done kickboxing a few times in LA but never fully got the appreciate it, but now i have ... you can count on me coming here couple times a week ... if ONLY* tat wong was a bit closer ... so earlier today i come in and scope out the area, and must say, i was shocked to see this shrine-y looking place full of lil kiddies who were literally like 5 yr olds -- they were TOO* cute i took a pix. peek foto! it's definitely huge, i must say.. 1st floor -- where you get your hard work out, and the basement -- showers/restrooms/changing room/gym. cool thing is, you can totally take use of their machines (treadmills,bicycles, weights)  whenever... the instructors are hella cool, knowledgeable,and patient ... they seriously will keep you motivated and reach your personal goals, guiding you step by step... workout was super intense and exciting... constantly working on drills and techniques, pad work, conditioning excercises with a full range of kicks, punches, and more... i've never felt so energized and so pumped up, ready to beat the crap outta someone in ages!!!  imagine! the sweat pouring, calorie burning, aggression releasing work out ... oooh yea baby!! i cant wait to see my bod defined and toned before the summer hits ... my butt has never felt so sore and tightened in ages ... i'm only hoping my tummy will flatten itself out SOON... bottom line is...if the lil kiddies can do it, and I CAN DO IT -- YOU CAN DO IT!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

You sign up and you're a member for life. You go back after years of not showing up and they'll drill you as if they just saw you yesterday. I worked out at this gym as soon as they opened up in February of 2000. I was hanging tough with guys three times my size. Literally. Sifu Jeff will work you out and he's fun to take classes from. If he sees that you can handle more he'll give you more. If you make fun of him, he'll make you regret it. Also, he's like a supreme blackbelt and he'll kill you six times before you hit the ground.I really like this place. You gotta go often so people recognize you because if you're just there to walk in, get a workout and get out, that's how they'll handle you. But if you're there every night getting the best workout for your time and money - they'll make sure you sweat for every moment they provide class.Not only that! They let you use the machines for as long as you want. No time limit. No angry people staring at you to get off the cardio machines. Why? Cuz there's a huge battle arena mat where you get all the cardio workout you can handle.This is a place where you learn kickboxing. It's more oriented for adults, or college age kids. They'll run you into the ground. Small kids can come, but they'll be blown away by a hard kicking classmate who just got done making a million dollar sale, or a nurse who got off the night shift. Kids should go to the Kung Fu Academy in Outer Richmond. More...

Reviewed on Yelp