"Sifu Joseph has created a challenging, yet nurturing environment that fuels the mind, body and soul. The great camaraderie among the students is an added bonus. I look forward to coming to class, enjoy every minute of each class and feel great on the way home. I would highly recommend New Orleans Shaolin-Do to anyone, regardless of age or fitness level, who has an interest in martial arts."

Sherry Landry, Former City Attorney
New Orleans, Louisiana

"Shaolin-Do is one of the most comprehensive martial arts systems that one can study. It is not pre-occupied with showmanship or performance but with discipline, grace, respect, power and efficacy. The personal benefits I have received as a student of Shaolin-Do are too numerous to mention but three of the greatest benefits have been fitness, confidence and humility."

Vince Giordano, Owner/Broker
Exit Realty Professionals, New Orleans

"I began my Shaolin-Do training approximately 7 months ago and have seen gains in self confidence, agility, flexibility, coordination and mental focus. Sifu Joseph Meissner and the instructors are very patient and always willing to offer their assistance to students who need help learning the vast system that is Shaolin-Do. The curriculum includes training in empty hand forms, numerous weapons forms and self-defense techniques. Shaolin-Do’s culture is non-competitive and allows students to get what is important to them out of their training. I would recommend the school to anyone interested in pursuing a martial art."

Will Gandy, New Orleans

“Since joining Shaolin-Do I have become more aware of my body and more physically fit. I’ve also become more focused and calm. What was surprising to me was the difference it’s made in my work environment. Many have commented on my ability to stay calm through difficult challenges. No other conditioning form of exercise has translated that way for me. I agreed to share my testimonial as a thank you to Sifu Joseph, who has been patient and encouraging from the very first day.“

Joe Bravo, New Orleans

“Shaolin-Do, for me, it's about taking that first step to knowing who you are and building towards who you want to be. It’s about trusting yourself and facing your fears. It’s about pushing past your limits and going further than before. It’s strength, power, flexibility and balance, inside and out. In the big picture, it’s a way of life. Shaolin do has given me more already than I could ever hope to give back.“

Michael Overstreet, New Orleans

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Angela and I had reached that point - our early thirties - where we both had been sitting behind a desk for about 10 years without any real form of regular exercise. It was catching up to us, and we knew it was time to search out a physical lifestyle which we could actually live with. Of course, we considered a standard gym membership, but neither of us really go for the neon and spandex atmosphere that usually accompany those sort of places. I also know from experience that unless I am engaged mentally in something, my interest will fade pretty quickly. Kung-Fu seemed to make more sense, as it could teach us real skills -and knowing that Angela could defend herself in a bind was appealing to my peace of mind. So we came to an intro class, signed up, and started sweating. Well, it's been 5 months. I'm pleased to say that we both are absolutely in love with Shaolin-Do Kung Fu. I can't imagine any better way to get healthy. Shaolin-Do works your body, mind, and spirit. How effective is the workout? Sounds cheesy, but I actually lost 25 lbs in the first 3 months. I feel better than I have felt in 15 years, and the people we've met are all down-to-earth and serious about a long term education in these amazing arts. Thanks again! We'll see you in class!

Blaine and Angela Pierce

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I wanted to let you know how pleased we are with the school. My son, Dylan, has been enrolled in Kid's Kung Fu for about 6 weeks now. He is progressing well and absolutely adores his teacher. He seems to have just the right combination of patience and discipline to help the kids learn effectively. As a result of his training, I am beginning to see better discipline and self-confidence in Dylan. And the best part is that he enjoys the classes so much that he is always eager to attend.

Sheri Moore

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I'd like to boast about all of the aspects and benefits of Shaolin-Do Kung Fu and Tai Chi, the weight loss, flexibility, self-defense mechanisms, empowerment but most importantly the atmosphere. As a professional performer and movement instructor myself, the learning environment is very important. All of the instructors are motivated to enable the individual. Yes, it's hard work, yes what you accomplish is up to you, but the students desire to do well is always sparked by the profound knowledge and individual concern given by each and every teacher. I always come to class with the intention of trying my hardest, and I always leave feeling I did, because of the instructors and the atmosphere they provide. What a fabulous way to learn!!!!!

Lyn C. Wiltshire

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"I have studied many different arts for over 20 years; Tae Kwon Do, Go-Ju Kai, T'ai Chi, Praying Mantis, Wing Chun, and Kung Fu with a World Champion Wu-Shu master (one of Jet-Lie's classmates). Shaolin-Do is undoubtedly one of the best martial-arts schools available. It is the perfect blend of traditional forms, practice and fighting application. In the common martial art school, the material is taught slowly and there are very few high-quality students as a result. The Shaolin-Do program provides modern day, exciting training but still retains the deep knowledge and true spirit of traditional Shaolin principals. Master Schaefer is not only very good in Shaolin martial-arts but also has a profound knowledge of the history of Chinese's martial-arts and its philosophy which I have not seen in many Western practitioners. He is truly trying to pass on his knowledge and has successfully produced many excellent students. His instructors have not only mastered the Shaolin skills and philosophy but have also absorbed his warm and friendly approach to teaching the art. Thank you Master Schaefer and all the instructors I associate with at Shaolin-Do" 

Tim & Beverly Ton

NOTE: "I would like to add that Tim is an advanced and very accomplished martial artist. Along with a vast experience in Chinese martial arts, he is well known in the international community and has done stunt work in several Jackie Chan films. I am honored that he has said such generous things about me and my school. He is an great asset to our program."

Joe Schaefer

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Since I began taking Shaolin Do Kung Fu, many things have changed for me. I used to have immense struggles with self esteem and self confidence. Taking your classes has vastly improved both. I have lost weight and have kept it off for almost a year now, I enjoy teaching music much more, I am more confident in my teaching and playing abilities, and I am over all a happier person. Physically, in addition to losing weight, I am able to do so much more than I used to. I am much more flexible and no doubt MUCH stronger. My husband, family, and friends have all commented on the changes I've experienced. I have been so thankful for the opportunities you and your school have given me! I plan on staying for quite some time.

Becky Miller, Shaolin-Do Brown Belt

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My name is David Lauterstein. I run the Lauterstein-Conway Massage School of massage therapy and have been involved with the healing arts and sciences since 1977. I have also studied martial arts a number of times in my life - kung-fu, karate, hapkido, boxing, tai chi. Until I started Shaolin-Do, each had something missing - either they took themselves too seriously, didn't seem to care about the students, had boring, egotistical, or macho teachers, weren't clear in their instructions, or were unsafe, not setting clear boundaries for classes. Since January, 2002 I and my son, Jake, have had the pleasure of studying at Shaolin-Do. The teachers have a great combination of humor, non-competitiveness, physical and mental challenge, expertise, and care. This creates an atmosphere of lightness even though we work hard at learning. The teachers have humility - they are clearly enthusiastic students themselves and it shows. I have lost ten pounds, dropped 50 cholesterol points (!), and left behind long-held tensions in my back, knees, and arms. My son, Jake, is more confident, stronger, more disciplined and self-assured. We are thrilled to know Master Joe Schaefer and the other great teachers and assistants. This tradition, as transmitted by Shaolin-Do, is encyclopedic, challenging in all the right ways, and it is taught with care, enthusiasm and expertise.

David Lauterstein, international workshop presenter, co-founder and co-director of the Lauterstein-Conway Massage School in Austin, author of Putting the Soul Back in the Body.

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I was a student at the North Austin Shaolin-Do school for only 4 months before moving to New York. Kung-Fu was not my first experience with martial arts, but I would have to say it [Shaolin-Do] was the most informative. Trying to catch a ride somewhere in Albany NY, I was then approached by 2 young men who proceeded to harasses me and try to take my personal belongings. One of the men pulled a knife out from behind his back and swung it wildly at my arm when I refused to comply with their demands. What happened next happened so fast I didn't have time to think. I grabbed his wrist and struck his elbow hard [like short form #4]. He dropped the knife to the ground. The other man tried to punch me and I stepped in, blocked and back swept [like short form #7] him. He hit his head on the concrete and was knocked out.. This happened in about 30 seconds. I had no time to think, just act. I am very glad that I had learned so much from Shaolin-Do and I believe that it saved my life. Thanks.

Blaine (received 10/2002)

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Master Joe, I am writing this to thank you for the help you and your teachers have given to me and my two boys (Sean and Michael) since we joined Shaolin Do. In general, I feel stronger and more relaxed. I have also noticed with both of my boys that they show more poise and self assurance, especially when dealing with the difficulties of being elementary and middle school students.

I guess what I am saying is that the increased strength and coordination that I feel and see in myself and my boys is only the basis of what I appreciate as the benefit of Shaolin Do. It is as if working hard day by day to learn forms and practice them gives a person the right and responsibility to use them, while, at the same time, the learning method itself becomes a tool for the rest of life.

I particularly enjoy seeing it in a child, if even for a brief moment, like where Michael was stuck on a piece of the bo kata. There is that first attempt that does not work, then a pause and a moment of thought, then more failed tries, until eventual success. To have then seen the same process unfold with Michael and a reading assignment from elementary school where he stumbled on a phrase then went back over it again and again until he corrected it himself, well, all I can say as a parent is that some joys can not be measured. Thank You

Rob Stevens

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When my son was getting ready to turn five year's old he started expressing an interest in marital arts. So my wife and I started looking for a school where he could go. We didn't want a school where all the instructors were worried about only the fighting aspect of marital arts. We wanted a school where he could be part of one big family. Master Joe and all of his instructors provide such a school. The children's classes are taught with instructor's that are kind and patience. They always find ways to motivate and teach children of different abilities and backgrounds. After taking my son to his first lesson and talking to the instructor my wife and I knew that this was the school for our son. After a few months of my son taking classes he asked me to join. He didn't have to ask a second time! Knowing how well organized and smooth running the children's classes are I knew I didn't have to worry about the adult classes. I joined and have loved it ever since.

Respectfully, Johnny & Jonathan Alirez

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There have been weeks when I make 7 classes between Monday and Friday. That doesn't happen often but it has happened. Those are great weeks. On the days I feel the worst are the days I need to go to kung fu the most. I have yet to go to a kung fu class, at any belt level, and feel bad when class is finished. I feel spiritually uplifted after class. I am taking Shaolin-Do kung fu because I truly love it. I will continue to go as long as my love for Shaolin-Do lasts. I expect this to be a very long relationship. I hope in some small way I can help people love kung fu as much as I do."

Rand Van Fossen (2002)

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When it comes to the interests of my children, I am a thorough shopper. So, when my son and daughter showed interest in martial arts, we set out to find the ABSOLUTE BEST. And we found it at Shaolin-Do. Not only is it a comprehensive martial art with a long and rich tradition, but the staff teaches and earns genuine respect through thoughtful, dedicated instruction. .MOST IMPORTANTLY, the kids have fun. Lots of fun, as they strengthen body, mind, and spirit. All of this, and Shaolin-Do has the best prices in town.

Jun Hurt, mother of two Shaolin-Do students

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Thank you Sifu Ryan for the wonderful inspiration. My granddaughter is 7 and had ADHD. I searched for six months for the right school, trying the free classes in each, and I finally found it. Patricia has only been attending for two months but already there is a marked increase in her confidence and agility. She is very proud of what she has achieved. I will certainly recommend your school and plan to put my two younger grandsons in it when they are old enough.

Beverly Gibson, San Antonio (Jan 2002)

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I was attracted to the martial arts from a very young age, but never got the chance to practice one of the arts. In fact as a child I always had difficulty doing anything that was physically trying due to the fact that I have had severe asthma since I was three years old. When I moved out of my house to attend college I promised myself that I would put myself into a martial art. I never expected to find a school teaching Shaolin kung-fu. It only took watching a single class at the previous school on north Lamar, and I was hooked. After waiting three weeks before new students were allowed in, I then began my martial arts training. It's been a little over a year and a half now, and I've since grown out of my asthma due to the training that Shaolin-Do has put me through. My stamina has sky rocketed, and I have learned more patience and willpower that I know I would have otherwise. I can no longer picture my life without training in Shaolin-Do. I believe that inside of everyone there are only a few things that truly matter in there lives, and Shaolin-Do is one of those in mine.

Eric Douglas, college student and Shaolin-Do student for 1 1/2 years

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I have improved my health significantly in flexibility, balance, and coordination in the past two years since I joined Shaolin-Do. The empty hand forms and weapons training also help me to develop memorization and concentration skills. The supportive and friendly atmosphere in our school help me to overcome my initial fear for being a non-experience female student. The Shaolin training is not only helping me to manage the daily stress from work and from family, but the practice also carries over to other aspects of my life to boost my confidence and positive thinking.

Connie Ng, a Systems/Budget and Financial Analyst and a Shaolin-Do student for 5 years

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I have always been interested in the Martial Arts , before I joined Shaolin-Do I did a lot of research. One of the warnings my investigations found was "Beware of the Show-off teacher" . I started learning Kung Fu in February (2001) and expect to move to my next belt shortly. I can honestly say that Master Joe is absolutely grounded in his approach to teaching students. If you have a question it is always answered enthusiastically and positively. Martial Arts is not easy, nothing worth while ever is, but having a great teacher like Master Joe can help anyone pull through their challenges.

Steve Shire, Mfgr Sales Rep, Age 39

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"As a senior citizen, I need to worry about my health, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Tai Chi has helped me in all those areas. After just a few months practicing Tai Chi at Shaolin-Do my doctor couldn't believe that nearly every measurable health parameter was improved."

Jackie Merrow

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I have been a Shaolin-Do student under Master Schaefer for the past 10 years, having moved from Austin to Minneapolis, MN a little over two years ago. I still travel to Austin to train under Master Schaefer, but I sure miss the North Austin School! The school is a great place to train and work out, with a lot of space and a really good group of students. Master Schaefer is an incredible instructor, who teaches with patience, humor, heart, and tremendous skill. I am amazed at how much Shaolin-Do has improved my overall health, flexibility, stamina, will, and confidence. In fact, during each year over the past 10 years, I have felt better, looked younger, and become stronger, having more energy and drive. These improvements have been a direct result of the external Shaolin-Do training (katas, conditioning, etc.) and the internal meditation and Tai Chi training. This is hard to put into words, but my experience with Shaolin-Do under Master Schaefer has transformed me, improving my quality of life and giving me the opportunity to make myself a better person in many ways. Shaolin-Do has become an integral part of me, and I look forward to training in Shaolin-Do for the rest of my life.

Ken Link

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