Shaolin Kung Fu is a mixed martial art that has evolved over 1500 years of testing in battles, fights and self-defence.
The Shaolin Monks for 1500 years have learned and applied kung fu for self-defence and wellbeing. The Shaolin developed many of their own highly effective fighting techniques, and also learned and added systems from some of the most formidable warriors in China over the centuries.
Shifu Darrin Bird's Shaolin training lineage started as a student in 2011 and in 2015 became lay Disciple of Grandmaster Shifu Brett Russell (a Disciple of Shi DeFon). Shifu Darrin went on the train under Grandmaster Shi DeRu.
Shi DeRu (left) of Shaolin Institute with Shi DeYang (Head Instructor at the Shaolin Temple)
Shi DeFon, Grandmaster and Disciple of Shi SuXi
Shi DeYang (left) with Grandmaster Shifu Brett Russell
What You Learn
Shaolin Kung Fu is the external strong martial art with powerful strikes, kicks, throws, joint locks (Chin'na0, sweeps, and techniques to withstand and or block various attacks (iron vest).
Program (curriculum)
Taolu - Learn the traditional forms, patterns, or "kata". This is a choreographed sequence of moves that contain all the combinations/applications for the form. We many more than 20 empty hand forms, 10 weapon forms
Yong - Learn how to apply the combinations that are within a Taolu (form). This can vary from a few to more than twenty depending on the form being learned.
Strength, Conditioning & Flexibility - Develop all three areas during your training with the increasing in difficulty as students progress. Start where you start, no prior level expected.
Other Content - Learn other techniques and skills such as Chin'na - joint locks and grappling, Sanda - Chinese kick boxing, self-defence applications and techniques,
Grading - Progress and grade through our levels 1-16 Initially there are have 5 levels to get to lay "Discipleship" - equivalent to black belt or sash under Shi De Fon Lineage.
Life Changing
These are some of the life changing benefits students have reported from their Shaolin Martial Arts training... myself included
Feel powerful, self confident, and optimised for personal performance through practical self-defence, functional fitness, agility, flexibility, and strength training
Reduce stress and improve wellbeing and mindfulness through meditation and breathing techniques.
Prepared for tackling hard goals, and know you have the grit to continue when it gets hard, through Shaolin Kung Fu training that builds your resilience, increases focus, and mental conditioning
Mind, Body and Spirit
Few martial arts can claim their foundation is development of mind, body and spirit.
Shaolin Martial Arts is a truely holistic martial art - developed first and foremost for the health and wellbeing of Shaolin Monks, improving their meditation and focus under the principles of Chan (Zen) Buddhism, Taoism and Qi (Chi - internal life force) with the added benefit of self-defence.
Strong Values and Principles
Among our Shaolin values and principles we live by are; respect, tolerance, acceptance, resilience, self-discipline, humility, loyalty, brotherhood/sisterhood, and always... the pursuit of excellence in ourselves and our Kung Fu.
Your Teacher (Shifu)
Shaolin Warrior Martial Arts is lead by Shifu Darrin Bird, 33rd generation Shaolin lay disciple, his disciple name is "Yong Ling Dao".
Shifu Darrin has been practicing Shaolin Kung Fu for more than 14 years and teaching since 2017. He has an enviable lineage of masters, backed by 1500 years of Shaolin Temple martial arts history.
Join Our Friendly Community
Shaolin Martial Arts is for anyone, from 8 years to 88+. No previous experience required. We can adapt to most abilities. There are kids kung fu classes for kids from 8-12 years. And for adults and teens there are group kung fu classes or personal training wanting to traing at their own schedule.
Tai Chi and Qi Gong group classes suit those people looking for lighter training or wish to compliment their kung fu training with mindfulness, active meditation and less physically demanding and impact on the body.
Expect a friendly and supportive, safe space when you train with Shaolin Warrior Martial Arts family of students. We have a very diverse student base in age, gender diversity, and education and ability. Most students have never trained in a martial art before so they remember what it is like to be a new student.
What Students are Saying
"I've been training with Shifu Darrin for some time. He provides holistic martial arts training. Since I've started Shaolin I have seen an improvement in my physical endurance and mental resilience." - Nilo
"Shifu Darrin's classes are fun, intense workouts and follow traditional Shaolin martial arts techniques. Since starting classes with him I have seen an increase in my fitness and flexibility." - Jarrod
"Shifu works with you individually even in group classes and also explains the real world application of the techniques so it makes sense."
- Selene
Time to start
Your Shaolin Martial Arts journey starts by giving it a go. We recommend the two week trial offer. Just click the button below to start now for $39 for two weeks unlimited training. No lock-in contract and no other commitment to get started.
This is a great trial offer...
Unlimited training for 2 weeks!
Any Questions? If you have questions, please give a call or start head over to our FAQs page. And call if there is anything else you would to ask or discuss before starting training.
For more information about Kung Fu click here, for Tai Chi here. And the links the menu should help with other information like personal training, groups and our schedule.
We look forward to seeing you in training - Amituofo!
Shifu Darrin