Austin Kung Fu & Tai Chi

Business Details

39 Years

experience

Learn Kung Fu & Tai Chi in Austin

Austin Kung Fu & Tai Chi was founded on a lifelong passion for martial arts and a commitment to community empowerment. Since 1987, we have dedicated ourselves to teaching traditional Kung Fu and Tai Chi, blending centuries-old techniques with modern wellness practices. Our founders, Master Joe and Sheryl Schaefer, bring decades of academic and martial arts expertise to every class, creating a unique environment where physical discipline and mental resilience flourish. With over 35 years of combined teaching experience, we have trained thousands of students, from beginners to advanced practitioners, fostering a supportive community rooted in respect and personal growth. Our programs are designed to meet the needs of all ages, helping adults rediscover their strength, children build confidence, and seniors maintain vitality.

Through structured curricula and personalized attention, we deliver transformative experiences that extend beyond physical training, emphasizing character development and holistic well-being. Guided by principles of authenticity and inclusivity, we have built a welcoming space where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive. Our approach reflects a deep understanding of martial arts as a path to self-mastery, combining technical precision with philosophical insight. We measure success not just in belts earned, but in the positive changes our students experience in their daily lives. As lifelong practitioners and educators, we remain committed to advancing the art while staying true to its roots.

Services

Adult Kung Fu Kids Kung Fu Senior Tai Chi Martial Arts Classes Community Programs

Details

Year established: 1987

Highlights and features

We offer 35+ years of combined martial arts teaching experience with black belt certifications
Our instructors include university-trained neurophysiologists and published researchers
We provide personalized attention in a supportive, family-friendly environment
Our programs reduce stress while building physical and mental resilience
We teach traditional martial arts with modern wellness applications

What people say

Supportive community Expert instructors Transformative benefits Family-friendly environment Excellent instruction

Website

Update Listing

Services

Adult Kung Fu

Our Adult Kung Fu program develops physical strength, mental discipline, and self-defense skills through traditional techniques. Students build cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and coordination while learning time-tested martial applications. The practice fosters personal growth through structured progression and instructor mentorship.

Kids Kung Fu

Kids Kung Fu classes build character through physical training that improves strength, focus, and self-confidence. Our curriculum balances discipline with fun, teaching respect and self-control in an engaging environment. Children develop motor skills and emotional regulation while learning age-appropriate martial techniques.

Senior Tai Chi

Senior Tai Chi classes combine gentle movements with mindfulness to improve balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. This low-impact practice enhances mobility while promoting mental calm and stress relief. Participants learn traditional forms adapted for different physical capabilities.

Community Programs

Community programs create a supportive environment where members connect through shared martial arts practice. Class formats encourage peer interaction while maintaining individualized instruction. The social aspect enhances motivation and creates lasting relationships among practitioners.

Martial Arts Classes

Our martial arts classes integrate physical training with character cultivation for comprehensive personal growth. Instruction emphasizes technical mastery alongside mental focus and ethical development. Students progress through a structured curriculum with personalized feedback from experienced instructors.

People

Master Joe Schaefer

Head Instructor

8th-degree black belt in Shaolin Kung Fu with PhD in Neurophysiology. Trained martial artists for 32 years while conducting neuroscience research. Combines academic rigor with traditional martial arts instruction to optimize learning and physical development.

Master Sheryl Schaefer

Head Instructor

7th-degree black belt with Masters in Physiology who has taught Kung Fu for 25 years. Developed women's empowerment programs and youth character development curricula. Balances scientific understanding with traditional martial arts principles in her teaching approach.

Questions

What martial arts styles do you teach?

We teach traditional Shaolin Kung Fu and Tai Chi with 108 forms and 25+ weapons systems. Our instructors preserve authentic techniques while adapting them for modern wellness applications.

Are classes suitable for all age groups?

Yes, we offer age-specific programs for children starting at 4 years old, adults, and seniors. Each class maintains technical authenticity while being appropriate for the participants' developmental needs.

Do you offer trial classes?

We provide free introductory classes for both children and adults. This allows potential students to experience our teaching style and community atmosphere without commitment.

What makes your school different?

Our unique combination of academic expertise, traditional martial knowledge, and community focus creates unmatched learning experiences. Founders hold 8th and 7th-degree black belts with over 70 combined years in martial arts.

How do martial arts benefit mental health?

Our practice combines physical exercise with mindfulness techniques that reduce stress and improve focus. The structured progression builds confidence while the community environment provides social support.

Videos

Reviews (7)

Write a Review

Anne-Laure Reymond-Christensen

Jan 11, 2022 Report

Great martial arts school for young children. Teachers do an excellent job keeping the kids in task, motivated and progressing. The atmosphere is positive and friendly. I have particularly appreciated how the owners keep adapting their covid protocols to the situation in order to keep staff and students safe.

Rod & Weizhen Moline

Jan 04, 2022 Report

I think a lot of folks interested in Martial Arts or Tai Chi, may have had initial bad experiences with programs, or think they aren't really a candidate for participating in Martial Arts or Tai Chi programs. I can relate to anyone who started and stopped their Martial Arts journey. There are endless reasons for that; kids, change of job, school, health or age.
Having found Master Joe and Master Sheryl, owners of the Austin Kung Fu and Tai Chi School, I've experienced how they literally put their heart and soul into teaching and making their school a welcoming environment for persons of all ages

Chris Duckett

Jan 03, 2022 Report

Between the leadership, the life lessons, and oh..... the martial arts, this school has it all. After 2 years I can confidently say I'm hooked and will end up a life long learner in this area and that the lessons to learn are endless.

Tdn

Jan 02, 2022 Report

If you ever had an interest in martial arts, come and give this studio a try.
Masters Sheryl and Joe have created a great community of students and teachers. Everybody is very welcoming and whats more, you will evolve your fitness, mind and bring balance to your life. I couldnt be happier with my experience thus far.

Cynthia Marple

Dec 31, 2021 Report

My whole family attend this school. The instructors are professional and engaging. There is an accepting, family atmosphere so, regardless of your fitness level, you will feel welcomed and be challenged by the material. There are lots of different katas and styles taught - I have been a student here since 1999 and there is always something new to learn. Such a great school for adults and children!

Michael D'Elia

Dec 24, 2021 Report

Easily the best martial arts experience Ive ever had. Joe and Sheryl have created an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone and the sense of community here is amazing. Classes are always slightly varied so its not the same exact thing every time. Im always amazed at how Master Joe and Master Sheryl can explain all the nuances and history behind every single form or movement. My experience with the school has been nothing but positive and I look forward to every day I can go to a class.

Timothy Pham

May 23, 2021 Report

I started to join kung fu school because my daughter was in class :) Little did I know the Austin Kung Fu school and its awesome teachers and students gradually pulled me in, not a like a storm but more like a persistent rain. The school not just keeps me healthy and motivated, but also keeps me sane during this whole pandemic time. I don't feel any stress or mental blockage when I have the kung fu companionship by good buddies at school and the nurturing teaching of Master Joe and Master Sheryl. Over 5 years, I see how Master Joe always tries to get "everyone" move forward. That is super hard