Youth Shaolin classes are similar to the regular Shaolin class in format, but shorter in duration and organized with younger students in mind. Ages range from 7 to 14.
Our teaching philosophy is based on four anchors:
禮 - Lǐ - Courtesy
義 - Yì - Justice
廉 - Lián - Honesty
恥 - Chǐ - Ethics
The main rules and responsibilities of the ZYKFA program are:
- Show Respect and Be Respected
- Listen and Be Heard
- Follow Instruction, Ask Questions and Receive Answers
- Commit to Learning and Receive Quality Instruction
Youth Class Descriptions:
Youth Shaolin
Classes for beginners to advanced students. The first part of each class consists of stretching, static posture practice as well as moving and stationary punching and kicking drills. The second part includes practice of the Northern Shaolin forms taught at ZYKFA. Classes are 45 minutes in duration. The main function of the classes are for the students (of all levels) to be able to practice their Jibengong (daily practice) every class. Advancement in the system (through testing) is based on instructors input and is considered to be secondary in relation to the student's ability to practice, grow and evolve through the Jibengong taught at ZYKFA.
Youth Taolu Team (invitation only)
Weekly practice for all levels of students who wish to explore their skills in a competition environment.Youth Taolu Team members enjoy local, national and international competition opportunities. Participation is by invitation only however all are welcome to observe.
Advanced Youth Taolu Team (invitation only)
Weekly practice for the advanced level competitors. Advanced Youth Taolu Team are commited to competing at the highest levels working on demanding and complicated empty hand, weapon and two-person routines. Participation is by invitation only however all are welcome to observe.
Youth Summer Program (ages 7-14)
Program runs during the summer vacation time of the students enrolled in the Madison Metropolitan School District. The program is divided into several weeks throughout August, each week having its own theme, themes include:
- Lion Dance
- Asian Arts & Crafts
- Culture Sights & Sounds
On a daily basis participants have lessons in Shaolin Kung Fu, different projects and/or lessons, and eat authentic Chinese foods prepared by local restaurants. Group sizes are restricted to 15 students per week and these weekly sessions fill up quick. For more information or to request an informational brochure (starting in March of each year) call 608-347-3836
The ZYKFA Lion Dance Troupe
Open to all levels and age students interested in learning this spectacular dance and powerful music. Lion Dancing helps build a strong sense of belonging, both in the association and within the community at large. Classes are held seasonally (Nov-Jan), watch the calendar for our next practices. Classes are 1 hour in duration.
Testimonials about our program:
"Thank you everyone for everything you've done for my (daughter) and thanks for giving her a place for being herself and be accepted by cool people."
"Participation in the ZYKFA's Youth Class helped my niece's self-confidence in addition to teaching her lessons about the importance of practice and perseverance."
"The ZYKFA program has been such a valuable activity for my son who used to be too shy and timid to play any team sports he has gained strength, agility and body confidence that now allows him to explore other sports as well. The way the teachers elicit respect from the kids by being respectful back to them is absolutely fabulous! I'm so grateful to have found this amazing program."
"Kung Fu teaches real-life skills that you will find yourself using almost daily"
"I saw my 10 year-old son grow more in 3 months of kung fu training than through the previous several years of playing other sports"
