Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Trusted Chinese Martial Arts Academy in Pasadena
Since 1989, our academy has been dedicated to teaching Northern Eagle Claw Kung-Fu, a system rooted in the Northern Shaolin Temple tradition dating back to the Song Dynasty. Our private Chinese Martial Arts Academy in Pasadena combines 30+ years of experience with certified professional instructors to deliver family-oriented programs for ages 4 and up. We emphasize self-defense, Kung-Fu, fitness, and character development through structured curricula that include 108 Joint Locking Techniques, pressure point strikes, and traditional martial arts principles.With a focus on respect, discipline, and goal-setting, our Black Belt Program prepares students for both martial arts mastery and academic success. Our team, led by Hall of Fame inductee Master Kenneth Edwards, has trained students who compete nationally and internationally while performing for local and televised events. We offer tailored training solutions for children, teens, and adults through weekday and weekend classes in a safe, supportive environment.
Services
Self-Defense Training
Kung-Fu Instruction
Black Belt Program
Children's Classes
Private Lessons
Fitness & Cardio
Weapons Training
Family Martial Arts
Competition Preparation
Tai Chi Programs
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of experience teaching Northern Eagle Claw Kung-Fu lineage
- Hall of Fame inductee instructors with global certification
- Family programs starting at age 4 with structured belt progression
- Proven Black Belt Program enhances academic performance
- National/international award-winning student performance record
Services
Chinese Martial Arts Training
Our Northern Eagle Claw Kung-Fu system teaches authentic techniques from the Northern Shaolin Temple tradition, including pressure point strikes and joint locking methods developed in the Song Dynasty. Students learn comprehensive self-defense strategies while building physical fitness and mental discipline. The curriculum combines traditional martial arts principles with modern training methodologies to develop practical combat skills and personal confidence.
Black Belt Program
Structured progression through sash levels prepares students for black belt certification with specialized workshops and rigorous training standards. The program emphasizes goal-setting, perseverance, and technical mastery of Kung-Fu forms and applications. This comprehensive curriculum has helped students gain recognition in competitions and demonstrated effectiveness for college applications.
Children's Martial Arts
Age-specific classes for 4+ year-olds develop coordination, focus, and discipline through engaging martial arts activities. Curriculum integrates character education with physical development in a safe environment that builds confidence and social skills. Students participate in performances for local events and gain competitive experience at regional/national levels.
Private Instruction
Customized lessons provide personalized attention for skill refinement, competition preparation, or specialized self-defense scenarios. Instructors tailor sessions to individual learning pace and specific martial arts goals while maintaining traditional technique standards. This focused training accelerates progress through concentrated practice and immediate feedback.
Weapons Training
Advanced students learn traditional Chinese martial arts weaponry as part of comprehensive combat education. Training develops precision, control, and understanding of weapon-based defense tactics. Programs include safe handling techniques and practical applications within the Northern Eagle Claw system framework.
People
Master Kenneth Edwards
Chief Instructor
Over 30 years of martial arts experience with two Hall of Fame inductions. First American to complete the full Northern Eagle Claw system under Grandmaster Shum Leung. Featured on 'Inside Kung-Fu Magazine' cover.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Northern Eagle Claw Kung-Fu, a Shaolin Temple-derived system combining striking, joint locks, and pressure point techniques.
What age can children start training?
Our programs start at 4 years old with age-specific classes designed for early physical and character development.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes, we provide customized private instruction for students seeking personalized training and accelerated progress.
Is prior experience required?
No - our curriculum accommodates complete beginners with structured beginner programs that build from fundamental techniques.
How does belt progression work?
Students advance through colored sashes and testing milestones, culminating in black belt certification after mastering core techniques.
Are there competitive opportunities?
We prepare students for local, national, and international competitions with proven training programs for martial arts athletes.
Reviews (6)
Ara A.
Jan 18, 2022
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Excellent school for overall general health and self defense. Master Edwards cares about his students and works hard to help you achieve.
Dee Y.
Jan 05, 2022
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A while back I went in to speak with the master in charge. I was interested in joining the school, but needed to scope the place out for myself. After about ten minutes of a very uncomfortable chat, with phrases such as, "You need to learn kung fu here for self defense. If someone attacks you on the street, no one will help you because you are a woman and you are weak," expressed with other clearly bigoted views along with tacitly repeating how I was weak for being a woman- I was extremely turned off and confused by this very idiotic business plan from the man trying to intimidate me
Morgan B.
Oct 14, 2021
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I have done martial arts on and off through out my adolescence but never as an adult. I recently came into some free time and I decided it was time to get back into it. I started researching Dojo's in my area and I set up several trial classes, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Kempo and it was fun but I was craving more structure. Enter Shang Tung and Sifu Kenneth Edwards, I spoke with Sifu Edwards on the phone and set up my first two intro classes. Upon arriving I was greeted by Sifu Edwards who is one of the nicest, funniest people I have ever met. The class was so enjoyable I felt like I was there
Janice C.
May 08, 2021
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My child really wants to study specifically Kung fu, and unfortunately this is the only one in Pasadena. I really wanted this to work out for us, but the man on the phone was so unbelievably rude I would never allow my kids to interact with someone so hostile and aggressive. He continually spoke over me and was very upset that I wanted to know the monthly pricing. Why would I want to try something and get my kids excited if it was out of reach financially? And if you don't want to tell me your pricing- why do you have to be SO RUDE about it? I literally couldn't even ask the question
Greg E.
Jul 14, 2020
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I've been going here for the past year or so, and I think it's time to give this place a review. Considering the pricing for a month of Kung fu, Sifu Edwards gives you a whole lotta bang (or kick?) for your buck. I've learned so much from him, as well as his black belt students that teach alongside him. In just a year, I've learned how to use a short staff, long staff, double sabers (!!), and countless self defense techniques. The education you receive here is priceless.
Beathony Doe
Jan 24, 2020
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He made us feel like we were apart from the time we walked in. My son quickly adapted to the environment, I believe the teachers presence played a vital role.
