Throughout the years, students have consistently experienced the benefits of training in the Northern Shaolin kung fu system, and this iteration, through PATHS Atlanta, is no exception.
Here are what some students have to say:
I ever told you how valuable everything you’ve taught me has been? How it’s all still part of my life, even to how i do simple movements?
I feel like I’ve internalized a lot of the basic principles; alignment, relaxation, balance, the tai chi organic flow, torque…and they show up at the most unexpected times.
Anyway–thank you.
What an energizing class to get your blood pumping for Sunday morning. Details are important to the teacher, so he WILL WORK you, so you may have a solid structure to start from. A great class for a beginner, like myself, or for those looking to advance to the next level. A fun class with a bunch of cool people wanting to learn traditional martial arts.
My history with Sifu Kiessling goes back more than 15 years. This is closer to traditional Northern Shaolin training than most people ever get to experience. This is not your strip mall martial arts training center where the more money you spend, the better color belt you get. Sifu Kiessling is a no nonsense practitioner and his desire for excellence in training definitely shows. This class is 100% about the ol’ saying “No Pain, No Gain!” Students will definitely come away from his classes sore, but with a much deeper understanding of martial applications and philosophy, something strip-mall centers can’t hope to touch.
Moving to Atlanta from Florida, I’ve visited with most of the schools in the area while trying to choose where I wanted to continue my training and THIS INSTRUCTOR IS UNQUESTIONABLY ONE OF THE BEST! His classes excel in attention to detail, refinement of technique, practicality of skill and serious conditioning while at the same time maintain a jovial sense of play. The training group is really more of a family than anything else: there to celebrate each others’ accomplishments and assist one another when you’re having a hard time with something. I’ve definitely found my home with this group.
It’s been awhile since I trained with the instructor, but I remember my time well. I’ve since moved, and gone on to train in another style, but what I was taught here gave me a stronger foundation than I have seen anywhere else. Not to mention the calisthenics and overall conditioning – be prepared to work! Northern Shaolin is an interesting style with a solid history, and even though I am involved in something else now, I still practice my Tan Tui, Leinbokuen, Tun Dah and Broadsword forms on a regular basis =)
I come mainly from a western boxing background, and was looking for something to supplement my training to help my flexibility and agility. I heard about Sifu Kiessling’s class through a friend and have been hooked ever since. I must say this Shaolin class offers one of the most complete systems for developing overall fitness and practical martial skills. If you are looking to get in great shape, this will do it! Wonderful instructor and overall training environment! This class is both challenging and fun, leaving you with a true sense of accomplishment when you finish a training session.
Traditional Northern Shaolin? LOOK NO FURTHER. If you’re like me, you’ve been taking lessons from a few different instructors or schools in the area…but perhaps you’ve been looking for something a little special. For me, it’s always been traditional arts, with a specific emphasis on the Shaolin arts.
Folks…training with Shifu Kiessling is as real as it gets. He is without a doubt a powerful martial artist, but also a wisened teacher and very down to earth. He’s very understanding and works with you as an individual. It’s not about who can perform such-and-such form at breakneck speed. Rather, training with Kiessling is all about learning your body mechanics and becoming aware of the potential within.
This is the very essence of training, in my opinion. As for the speed…that will come in time. But as the instructor is apt to say, this is all about personal development. If you have even the slightest curiosity in Northern Shaolin (Bei Shaolin / Bak Siu Lum), do yourself a favor and come to a class, meet the extended family, and begin an exciting path of traditional Chinese martial arts. You will find a truly excellent teacher in Shifu Kiessling, and I dare say one of the very best anywhere.
Just wanted to say what a rockin good time. I hate hurting from muscle sore, but it feels good to hurt & move.
