What is Shaolin Kung Fu
Shaolin Kung Fu, rooted in the traditions of the Shaolin Temple in China, is one of the world's most renowned martial arts. Known for its blend of physical prowess, mental discipline, and spiritual development, Shaolin Kung Fu emphasizes the harmony of body, mind, and spirit. Its practice involves rigorous training in stances, strikes, kicks, and forms, as well as meditative and philosophical principles.
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Key Elements of Shaolin Kung Fu
The academy embodies the essence of Shaolin Kung Fu through its curriculum. Students progress through a system, mastering foundational techniques before choosing specialized paths in mind, body, or combat. Training emphasizes personal growth, community involvement, and readiness for challenges, both on and off the mat​.
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Rich Heritage:
Originating over 1,500 years ago, in the Songshan Mountains of China’s Henan Province.
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Animal and Fist Styles:
Practitioners often emulate the movements of animals, such as the Tiger (strength and ferocity), Crane (grace and precision), and Snake (speed and flexibility). These styles are not just techniques but embody philosophies and strategies. These are in conjunction with more traditional fist and weapon forms.
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Combat Techniques:
The art incorporates strikes, joint locks, grappling, and defensive maneuvers. Advanced practitioners learn dynamic acrobatics and weapons training, including staff, nunchaku, and rope dart techniques.
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Mental and Spiritual Training
At its core, Shaolin Kung Fu fosters discipline, respect, adaptability, and resilience. Meditation and mindfulness are integral, promoting inner peace and balance.
The Three Fold Path
What makes Shaolin so unique is the path is different for each practitioner. We all learn the basics but as students progress they will choose what to focus on and follow that path. This mirrors the Shaolin Temple, where monks specialize in various aspects of the martial arts. This fosters creativity, individuality and gives each student the chance to focus on their strengths and style.
Every Student will learn pieces of each path. All Students will learn Forms from the path of the mind, gain physical Process from the path of the Body and self-defense skills from the path of Combat. The individual paths allow for higher levels of more advanced focus.
About Me.
Damien Burge is an accomplished martial artist and dedicated instructor with over 15 years of experience. A United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductee, Damien has trained extensively across the globe, including studying Judo in Albania, Aikido in Japan, and Shaolin Kung Fu and Tai Chi under a Shaolin Warrior Monk in China. His diverse background includes certifications in kickboxing, personal training, yoga, and corrective exercise, as well as a black belt from the World Martial Arts Fighting Federation.
Damien combines traditional Shaolin principles with modern martial arts techniques, emphasizing discipline, adaptability, and personal growth. His teaching fosters both physical and mental strength, creating a supportive environment for students of all levels. Whether you're seeking fitness, self-defense skills, or a journey of self-discovery, Damien's guidance will help you achieve your goals.
Certifications
United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame Inductee
United States Martial Artist Association Indiana State Director
International Sports Science Association Certified in
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Kickboxing,
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Nutrition,
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Exercise Therapy,
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Corrective Exercise,
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Personal Training and Yoga. ​
Shaolin Kung Fu and Tai Chi certified under 34-generation warrior monk. ​
World Martial Arts Fighting Federation Black Belt
Certified coach with USA Boxing Association
Certified Coach with International Wushu Association
Kung Fu
$20 / Payable with plan
Classes
Monday 4pm:
All Ages Forms Practice
Thursday at 5pm:
Youth Kung Fu
Saturday at 10am:
Adult Kung Fu
