Business Details
14 Years
experience
Martial Arts Classes for Adults & Kids in New York
At North Sky Kung Fu, we are dedicated to preserving and teaching the authentic Northern Shaolin Eagle Claw Kung Fu system, passed down through the Ying Jow Pai lineage. Founded in 2012 by Sifu Dario Acosta and Sifu Julie Ann, our New York City school offers comprehensive martial arts training for adults, children, and teens. Our instructors, including Master Dario Acostaa direct disciple of Grandmaster Leung Shumbring over 40 years of combined experience in martial arts, tournament competition, and performance. We emphasize practical self-defense, physical fitness, and mental discipline through traditional practices like forms, weapons, sparring, and the unique '108 locks of Faanzi Eagle Claw.' Our Chelsea studio provides a welcoming environment where students of all skill levels develop confidence, health, and mastery of this profound art.We offer flexible scheduling, including energized weekend classes and private training options. Our mission combines technical excellence with community building, reflected in our family-friendly programs and student testimonials praising our patient instruction and positive atmosphere. Located in Manhattan's heart, we serve as a hub for martial artists seeking authentic training grounded in cultural heritage and modern practicality.
Services
Kung Fu Classes
Tai Chi Instruction
Summer Camp Programs
Private Training
Weapons Training
Sparring Workshops
Tournament Preparation
Qigong Sessions
Family Martial Arts
Beginner Programs
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- Instructors trained directly by Eagle Claw Grandmaster Leung Shum
- Comprehensive curriculum through black belt certification
- Family-friendly programs with dedicated kids' classes
- Specialized health benefits through Tai Chi and Qigong practice
- Flexible scheduling including weekend and private training options
What people say
Lifesaver
Dedicated teachers
Welcoming experience
Best martial arts school
Son's favorite place
Services
Kung Fu Classes
Traditional Shaolin Eagle Claw Kung Fu instruction covering self-defense, forms, weapons, and sparring. Our curriculum develops physical discipline and cultural understanding for ages 5+. Classes include tournament preparation and belt progression through black belt.
Tai Chi Instruction
Wu Style Tai Chi programs focusing on balance, harmony, and health benefits. Sessions incorporate Qigong exercises to improve flexibility and mental clarity. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels seeking low-impact movement practices.
Summer Camp Programs
Week-long martial arts camps combining Kung Fu training with cultural education. Activities include forms practice, games, and teamwork exercises. Designed for children 6-14 to build confidence and physical skills during school breaks.
Private Training
One-on-one sessions tailored to individual goals, including competition preparation or focused self-defense techniques. Semi-private options available for families or small groups seeking customized martial arts development.
Weapons Training
Specialized instruction in traditional Kung Fu weapons handling and forms. Students learn safe techniques with staff, sword, and other implements while developing coordination and discipline through structured practice sequences.
People
Sifu Dario Acosta
Master Instructor
One of few Eagle Claw Masters certified by Grandmaster Leung Shum, with 45+ years martial arts experience. Former national team competitor teaching practical self-defense and traditional forms in NYC since 2012.
Sifu Julie Ann
Program Director
Co-founder developing curriculum for kids and adults, blending 40+ years martial arts expertise with Wushu and Taekwondo background. Creates engaging programs that make traditional Kung Fu accessible to modern New York families.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Northern Shaolin Eagle Claw Kung Fu and Wu Style Tai Chi, both taught in traditional formats preserving cultural heritage while adapting to modern fitness needs.
Are classes available for beginners?
Yes! Our curriculum welcomes all skill levels with structured beginner programs that build foundational skills progressively, ensuring new students feel comfortable and supported.
What age groups participate in your programs?
We offer classes for children starting at age 5, teens, and adults of all ages. Family training options and specialized youth programs accommodate different developmental stages.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide free trial classes by appointment. Contact us at (917)657-6104 to schedule your introductory session and experience our teaching approach firsthand.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes that allow movement. We provide loaner uniforms for initial classes and can guide you on proper martial arts attire requirements.
Are private training sessions available?
Yes, we offer personalized private and semi-private sessions tailored to individual goals, including competition preparation, specific technique refinement, or family martial arts instruction.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Lia
Apr 02, 2021
Report
This has been a lifesaver. I never found a place that is so dedicated and loves to teach as much as this studio. They are so patient and again love to teach. They are also very reasonable priced and well located.
Carolyn Lamargo
Jan 19, 2021
Report
North Sky Kung Fu - Sifu Julie and Sifu Dario - have changed my son's life! They have given him something to be excited about and proud of! Even during the most difficult time of the pandemic, they found a way to virtually bring practice, positivity and goodness into our home! They've given our lives a structure we so desperately needed during the quarantine. Their patience and consistency have been the ultimate gift to our son. It is his favorite place. The studio is professional and full of positive energy. He has grown so much from his experience and I highly recommend North Sky - we couldn
Richard M.
Aug 20, 2020
Report
My now 10 and 8 year old children have been coming here for 3 years. We tried other schools, but North Sky is unique because they offered weapons training (staff, sword) from day 1. Teachers are very friendly and teach through encouragement rather than strict discipline.
Franklin La Paz
Jun 11, 2020
Report
It's a wonderful, amazing school to be a part of and I have earned 2 sash belts through hard work and training thanks to the instructors. They offer online classes during the viral outbreak and it's great. You get sweat, workout and do some nice Tai Chi. I love this school and I plan to continue my training and education with North Sky Kung Fu.
Brooklyn W.
Feb 21, 2020
Report
Amazing class! The instructors were so patient and encouraging. This was my first intro but everyone made sure I didn't feel intimidated. Julie worked with me a lot and she was incredible! She is a true teacher in every sense- present, patient, observant and encouraging. I walked away already wanting to do another class! I can't recommend this place enough- whether you want to switch up your workout or truly learn and master the craft.
P. T.
Jan 06, 2020
Report
Our 9 yr old daughter is as enthusiastic about Kung Fu since her first day at North Sky 3 years ago. She has learned not only Kung Fu but also self defense. I credit Sifu Dario and Sifu Julie, owners, and teachers at the school, who, by their nurturing personalities and teaching method have created a positive and inclusive atmosphere present in every class. As of July 2019 the school has moved a few doors east to a beautiful and spacious new space.
