UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS/ CLOSINGS
ICMAC International Championships -July 17-19, 2026, Caribe Royal Resort, Orlando FLA
KuoShu International Championships -July 24-26, Rennaisance Resort, Baltimore Inner Harbor
SWORDPLAY WORKSHOP
On Saturday June 6, 2026 Paul Ramos conducted the next portion of his ongoing sword play series. This series looks at functionality and methods of using sword applications through the working of hand and foot drills, distance and timing exercises and other training methods. Training culminated in a final hour of free swordplay while rotating through all of those present. All levels could participate since the first hour was review of the fundamentals and the the next 2 hours worked the hand -foot drills, mental techniques, and timing / reaction training methods prior to freeplay. Participants really enjoy the training because it is both instructional and fun. Originally this was meant to be a one-time introductory workshop but the participants continued to ask for more; so segments will continue until we reach advanced level methods.
A group of participants filled the training area as we worked several of the hand, foot, and 2 person training methods. 4 hours later the group expressed their appreciation as they left the studio tired but informed and happy to have reviewed previous material while also working on new drills and training methods. There are more swordplay methods to explore and interested individuals will be notified prior to the next block of instruction to take place sometime in the Fall.
SUMMER IS HERE
Now that the weather has getten hotter students must make sure that they remain sufficiently hydrated. Bring your water ( which is better than most energy drinks), and feel free to take short breaks to drink during class times. The intensity of classes remains the same throughout the year so participants must remain vigilant and self monitor themselves to avoid fainting and weakness. Dehydration can be insidious and adverse effects can sneak up on you. One may feel fine one minute and then nauseous or faint the next moment. We may also have outdoor classes on occasion so the direct sunlight plus working out can cause these negative effects to occur more swiftly. When in doubt rest a bit, drink water and then resume training. If negative effects occur feel free to sit down and observe the class as long as is necessary before rejoining the training.
SHAOLIN KUNG FU
Wu Shen Tao offers training in traditional northern-style Chinese martial arts forms and techniques passed down through the Wudang Dragon Gate lineage, as well as Tien Shan Pai and other Shaolin styles. Sessions include intense physical workouts which build strength, balance, mind/body coordination, and skills for self-defense. Training is tailored to each individual, so beginners of all ages are welcome. Classes are led by Lao Shr Jeff Bandy who has taught our Shaolin program for more than a decade. If you are interested, or have questions, please reach us via email, wstkungfu@outlook.com
Kids Kung Fu at Liz Lerman Dance Exchange in Takoma Park), Thursdays 4:45-5:45pm and Saturdays 11:45-12:45pm
Adult/Teen Kung Fu - Contact us for details at wstkungfu@outlook.com
HYATTSVILLE LOCATION
Our Adult group classes are located in Hyattsville, MD. Our Community Tai Chi Push Hands gathering takes place there from 7:30-9:30 pm each Thursday evening. This free community gathering focuses on developing the skills of using the least amount of force to accomplish the maximum effect. This is known as the classic “Use softness to overcome hardness”.
On Saturdays from 9:00 am-10 am we train beginners. This is followed from 10-11 am by our Tai Chi Form and basics level 2 class. This is followed by Tai Chi Pushing Hands instruction at 11am. Beginning at 12 noon, we begin the Xing-I Chuan / Bagua Zhang training, as well as our advanced practitioner / specialized training block which runs until 1:30 PM.
Those wishing to train privately or semi-privately may do so at our Gaithersburg location at days and times agreed upon by both teacher and student. Call 301-651-3617 for more information.
The address for the group location is: 3811 Nicholson Street Hyattsville MD, 20782
The address for private lesson location is:
329B Main Street Gaithersburg MD, 20878
QUOTES OF THE MONTH
I found my place when I stopped looking for it.
Mahershala Ali
Family not only need to consist of merely those whom we share blood, but also for those whom we’d give blood.
“Nicholas Nickleby” - Charles Dickens
He who knows that enough is enough will always have enough.
Laozi
Paul Ramos and George Harris -Shanghai China 1994