New Business: Martial Arts School Spreads Chinese Culture

The management of a new martial arts studio couldn't be more pleased with its location in Olivette.

The St. Louis Shaolin Kung Fu School opened in August at 9467 Dielman Rock Island Dr., with the mission to spread Chinese culture in St. Louis.

"There has been a good response. The location is a very good location for the students and parents and the school has been growing primarily by word of mouth," said Hao Zheng who oversees correspondence for the school.

The independently owned and operated martial arts studio offers classes in Shaolin Kung Fu, but residents shouldn't be thrown by the name.

The school also holds Tai Chi and Qigong classes for adults as well as Mandarin Chinese classes for youth and adults.

Kung Fu classes are offered to students aged four and up. Language classes are held in a small classroom setting with individual attention that focuses on practical everyday vocubalary and conversation, according to Zheng. 

"The school opened with the goal of promoting traditional Chinese martial arts and culture," Zheng said.

This immersion into Chinese culture occurs naturually as students study Shaolin Kung Fu, the most ancient form of Kung Fu.

"By learning Shaolin Kung Fu students naturally become more familiar with Chinese language, Chinese culture and also through the practice of Kung Fu, the students not only gain physical flexibility and strength but also self-confidence and enthusiasm," Zheng said.

The newest development at the school is the addition of youth summer camps that include immersion into Shaolin Kung Fu, Chinese culture and Chinese language.

Classes are held Tuesday through Sunday. For more information about the St. Louis Shoalin Kung Fu School, visit http://www.STLkungfuarts.com. The school can also be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/STLkungfuARTS.