PATHS Atlanta Kung Fu

"Great Kung Fu class. The class sizes are much smaller than you would typically expect for a martial arts school, but it comes with the huge benefit of getting more one-on-one time during class, which is incredibly important especially for the beginner levels. The class is a mixture of fitness (in the form of circuit workouts) form/technique, and historical & philosophical education, all geared toward giving the practitioner a comprehensive Kung Fu curriculum (as opposed to just see opponent, hit opponent). Sifu Craig loves teaching and is invested in making sure that his students feel confident in their abilities and knowledge, so don't be afraid to ask questions! As with any discipline, it's important to practice regularly outside of class as well as that's where the vast majority of the improvement will come from. Overall a great introduction to Kung Fu. Highly recommend."

"Coming to Altanta two years ago from Toledo, Ohio, I have had an amazing experience at PATHS. Sifu Kiessling has such a deep knowledge of Chinese culture -- history, traditions, language, medicine as well as martial arts. As you move up the levels from basic, he pushes you to explore applications from the forms so that you figure it out for yourself like a puzzle. I had trained for almost five years previously in a different Northern Shaolin lineage, but my knowledge and skills have improved dramatically here. Small intimate setting is also supportive, but to get a good result you need to put in the time."

"My first time studying Kung fu & it was the best experience. I'm moving to another state which is the ONLY reason I have to leave the class. I love it here. The teacher is GREAT. We not only learn how to fight & defend ourselves, we also learn how to become better people. The class is awesome. Very loving & friendly. I've felt super comfortable since day one. I'm stronger mentally, physically, & spiritually because of the class ☺️... I'm pretty sad to leave but they've given me so much to take with me so I can continue progressing with my king fu & with self."

"I've been practicing Northern Shaolin with PATHS Atlanta for about a year now. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in learning Kung Fu. Class typically begin with a variety of stretching exercises and a circuit drill for conditioning. Following that we get into the substance of Nothern Shaolin. There is a heavy emphasis on forms and applications. I really like how we learn how each movement in a form could be used practically. We will also learn meditative techniques, history of Northern Shaolin and other styles, and the theories behind our martial practice. There is a lot of individual instruction in class. It is not uncommon for one student to be working on one thing while other students are practicing something else, but it never feels like you have been forgotten or excluded. Also common is that other students will momentarily pause what they are doing to offer you guidance or answer your question. The instructor is very knowledgeable, not just on Northern Shaolin but many other styles. Many times in class he will teach us some aspect of other styles for our martial education. We also are expected to learn the history of our lineage of Northern Shaolin which I think is really neat. There are two unique things about our class that I absolutely love. First, the classes are outdoors. While sometimes in extreme weather (August heat and January cold) I wish we had an indoor space, I almost always enjoy practicing Kung Fu outdoors. The second thing is the social aspect. Typically after class we go out for drinks and food. That aspect was a pleasant surprise as there I have really bonded with my fellow students and they all have interesting and diverse lives to learn about. Overall it is a lot of fun learning a historic martial art with a great group of people. Plus, you will get a good work-out and it will get you into shape (I have had many friends note that I look to be in the best shape in a long time.)"

"This was the first time that my wife and I had joined to take a Kung Fu class. It was way better than expected. From the accommodating class times to the very skilled and knowledgeable instructors, we decided that we still have a lot to learn. My wife and I spoke after a few classes and decided that this is definitely where we want to be and we would recommend PATHS to anyone! Thank you for being so welcoming in such a different environment for us!"