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International Chi Institute
4.6 ★★★★★ 11 Google reviews · Tai chi studio in Alameda, California
Certified instruction — reviews and the studio's own info point to a recognized tai chi program or lineage (think Tai Chi for Health / Dr. Paul Lam, the Taoist Tai Chi Society, or a named family-style teacher). If credentials matter to you, ask which program the instructor is certified in and which style they teach.
Plan your first class
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule internationalchiinstitute.com — see the live class schedule and book
- Phone (415) 832-0118
Hours
| Monday | 3:30–8 PM |
| Tuesday | 3:30–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 3:30 AM–8 PM |
| Thursday | 3:30–8 PM |
| Friday | 3:30 AM–8 PM |
| Saturday | 8:10 AM–7 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
What students say
“After watching Master Yan connect with all levels of learners, I can confidently say that he is the best teacher/instructor/motivator I've met.”
“Extraordinary authentic teachers - unparalleled excellence combined with superb teaching skills!”
From the reviews
Master Yan teaches Northern (Traditional) Shaolin Kung Fu with some Wushu element, too. I have taken my son to other Kung fu studios, but Master Yan is beyond comparison! Authentic! After a year of taking my son to lessons, I couldn't resist to take one trial lesson myself.
I've been a teacher for 18 years in the public school system. After watching Master Yan connect with all levels of learners, I can confidently say that he is the best teacher/instructor/motivator I've met. His ability to meet kids where they're at is unmatched.
I highly recommend this Shaolin Kung Fu studio. My son started there when he was 5 and now he is 17 - a black belt and part-time instructor with Master Yan. I recently told Master Yan's wife, Joanna, that Master Yan helped me become a better father simply by watching his classes.
Master Yan is amazing with kids, and really brings out physicality and discipline in movement. Our son's continued practice teaches him how over time, dedication and perseverance pays dividends. That said, for our kid, he just likes it without thinking of why, which is what makes it so great.
Your first tai chi class at International Chi Institute
Nervous about walking into a tai chi class for the first time? Almost everyone is, and good instructors expect beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a gentle warm-up, then learning a few slow movements of the form, step by step — no pressure to get it perfect, and you can rest or sit whenever you need to. What to wear: loose, comfortable clothing you can move in, and flat, flexible shoes (some studios practice in socks or bare feet). What to bring: water, and that's about it — there's no equipment to buy. Arrive a few minutes early to say hello to the instructor and mention it's your first class. It comes together faster than you'd think — most people feel far more at ease by their second or third visit.
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Classic martial arts school with classes for adults & children in kung fu, qigong & flexibility.