Dear Master Gohring,

Thank you for the opportunity to provide a written affirmation of your character and the value of being a student at Master Gohring's Tai Chi and Kung Fu.  

Let me first say that learning and practicing martial arts has many very important benefits to one's physical health and well-being:  increased energy and strength; improved posture and bodily control; clarity of mind and focus; ability to defend against a physical attack; etc.  However, I would like to talk about some aspects of you and your school that have impacted me on other levels.

First, I would like to comment on your generosity.  When my husband and I enrolled our two children in your Little Dragons Kung Fu class, we did not know or expect that we also would be able to take Tai Chi or Kung Fu with your family discount.  Because of this generous policy, our family has a common interest that is healthy, active and affordable.  Thank you so much for promoting families in this way.

Second, I am impressed with your sincerity.  I believe you have the best interests of your students at heart, and you are honest in both your praise and your correction when you teach. You have a natural style and a true desire to help your students discover their inner teacher.  I enjoy the way you provide simple analogies and examples to explain certain concepts.  Your classes are always constructive and satisfying.  Thank you for your wholehearted commitment to what you do.  It is inspiring.

Third, I appreciate our Student Creed:  “We follow the five hearts:  Faith, Respect, Perseverance, Patience and Humility.”  Because we recite this creed at the end of every class, our children have it memorized and are learning the meaning behind these very important values. As a family, we aspire to have these kinds of hearts, not only to become a Black Sash in Tai Chi or Kung Fu, but also to achieve any kind of goal in life.  Thank you for requiring us to recite these five simple words to remind each of us what it takes to be a successful person.

Finally, I admire your ability to command the respect and attention of your students, from the Little Dragons (4-, 5-, and 6-year-olds) to the most advanced.  I like the way you require everyone to say, “Yes, Sir/Ma'am” or “No Sir/Ma'am” to instructors or Black Sashes.  Because you create an awareness and healthy respect for authority, I believe your students are open and able to take advantage of the wisdom of experience.  

You also remind your young students that they “must do what their parents ask them to do the first time they ask them to do it, every time.”  I have quoted you many times at home, and it is clearly understood that this is also our expectation. Your example has made me a better parent, and I thank you for that.

In closing, I feel honored to know you and to call you “Sifu” and would vouch for your integrity and ability as a teacher without reservation. I look forward to walking the path of self-mastery as a student at Master Gohring's Tai Chi and Kung Fu.

Respectfully yours, 

T. Stroud

Dear Master Gohring:

Brianna started out with your Little Dragons class at the mere age of 4. Barely making a straight line while running, she now knows her Tiger Stances, Wu-Shu, is more flexible than ever, and even more!She has progressed into your big kids Kung-Fu class and only gets better, stronger and more focused with each and every class. She is the proudest she has ever been since last graduating to her Gold Sash the last graduation.

Now we have all the confidence in the world that she will do great once she begins kindergarten this August.  Kung Fu has helped her to prepare for a structured class setting and being around other children as well. Your School is the first School she has ever been in and she has gained confidence, has respect for others, follows directions with much more ease, and has even made friends.  

Sifu.. you, Connie and your School has been such a wonderful part our lives and she plans to carry on for many years to come. Hopefully when we get settled a bit more we will accept Black Sash Club so that Brianna can set her goals of achieving her Black Sash by the young age of 10 or 11. WOW. We are very proud of Brianna, and believe in her 100%. This is a real investment in her future! She is in great hands. Thank You so much!!

Sincerely, Tiffany & Jose B.

Dear Master Gohring:

We started Lani in your Kung Fu program because she'd watched her brother for a few weeks and decided that she'd like to try it. At about the same time we had taken her out of ballet classes. She was progressing sufficiently in ballet, and seemed to get some benefit from it, but she didn't seem to enjoy it as much as we'd hoped. After starting Kung Fu, Lani quickly learned the five hearts, and proceeded to learn and perfect the moves, sometimes helping her little brother who had started before her. It seems clear that Lani has definitely chosen the correct path with Kung Fu.

As the middle child, Lani struggles a bit with finding her “thing”. With Kung Fu, the five hearts taught her to select a path and to have the patience and humility to pursue that path. The result is that she understands that she does have the ability to pursue something and do well, because she's done just that with Kung Fu. Besides the enjoyment she gets from the classes, she's also growing stronger and healthier physically. But more importantly, she's gained more confidence and is much happier with herself.

Thank you for your program,

Denise J. and Joe R.

Dear Master Gohring:

(My mom is typing this letter for me because I can't read yet, but I'm telling her what to say.)

Thank you, Sifu, for teaching me. I like learning kung fu because it can help me defend myself. I'm learning to only use your attack when you need to and not against my little sister or my friends.

I feel happy when I leave kung fu each time because I've learned more stuff from you. I think learning kung fu is making me stronger. Kung fu is helping me learn to pay attention and use my body.

Sifu, I like you a lot. I think you're a good teacher. Thank you,

Guy F.

Dear Master Gohring:

Alex (pictured) has been taking classes with you for approximately 16 months. In that time he has shown a great deal of progress in learning to be part of a structured class environment, following directions and performing repetitive tasks without complaining. All of this was difficult for Alex at first, but the Little Dragons class was very helpful in introducing him to these concepts. The transition to the Big kids' class came at just the right time and the added expectations placed on Alex have helped him realize that most things worth having take effort and time to achieve. I am very pleased with Alex's progress to date and look forward to his continued success in your school.

Sincerely,

Marcy B.

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Dear Master Gohring:

I am in Ohio so I cannot attend the tournament, unfortunately. I miss my school and classmates. I also miss my teacher and administrator. You realize how good a teacher you have when you speak with others students about their training. I consider myself to be very blessed to be a part of a school that takes such good care of its students. I am looking forward to returning in summer. I am currently scheduled to be in Texas the second week of June. Thanks for remembering a student so far away, this means a lot to me. I am looking forward to being back in school during the summer.

Sincere regards,

Barrington Y.

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Dear Master Gohring:

Kung Fu has gotten me stronger. I can do push ups better, crunches better and jumping jacks better. Kung Fu has also made me more flexible. I really enjoy learning and practicing Wushu. I also like six-point sparring.

Thank you, Xee R.

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Dear Master Gohring:

We've been very pleased with our seven year old Xee's progress and dedication to your program. The school provides exactly what we were hoping for and more.

Since Xee started at the end of last year, he's dramatically increased his attention skills and his ability to learn in a group situation. In his first classes, we were very much aware of his "individual" spirit which meant he had to learn quickly to focus on what was being taught instead of simply staying in his own play world. He did learn quickly that if he wanted to continue this activity, he would have to pay attention to you, and to the experienced students and focus on being a part of the class. We were very pleased to watch the effect of your training when Ms. Connie substituted on a recent evening. Xee gave her the respect she deserved, and very effectively walked through Tiger Breathing and Wushu Basics at her request. It is a great testimony to your ability as a teacher to see the behavior of your students in your absence.

Because he understands and attempts to follow the five hearts for class, we are able to help and encourage him to follow the five hearts in all areas of his life. He is able to apply the five hearts to his school work and he seems to enjoy learning more than he had prior to your class.

Physically, Xee is becoming much more self confident. He is very aware that his strength and agility are increasing, and he understands that with practice he can "get better." Before he started, he seemed to think that he should just be able to do the moves automatically. Now he knows that he has to pay attention and learn to do the moves correctly, and then to practice, and apply the corrections he receives from you. The result is that he has learned and perfected the moves and understands the progression from being a beginner to being accomplished. This is a valuable lesson that will help him in all areas throughout his life.

Sincerely,

Joe R.and Denise J.

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Dear Master Gohring:

For the past several months that I have been training at your school, I have noticed a great change in my life: socially, physically and mentally. I immediately discovered that martial art was more than what it appeared to be in those provoking action movies; years of training and painstaking soreness. The first few classes proved to be a challenge; not knowing the course or the people, I wasn't sure how long it would take for me to learn the (what seemed to be) confusing-material. Standing perplexed, I would watch each student switch from one stance to another. Alas, by the near end of what I know now to be tiger stances, I was given guidance. Day after day this continued and soon I would be able to go about without the need of help; a sense of accomplishment was in the air.

Weeks into my training, I noticed how polite the people were and being a person that has never really met people out of the school of academics, I felt and improvement in my social skills: something that will be vital in the world ahead.

By coming five times a week and an hour each day the most obvious thing that I could see was my physical fitness improving. The time I have spent here has allowed me to become more flexible, accurate, stronger and faster. By staying attentive, practicing and putting forth dedication, these things can only get better.

As my friend has mentioned to me, "exercise is a form of meditation and with enough practice, the body reacts and moves on its own, allowing the mind to relax". This perfectly describes the stress reduction that physical activity provides. I can say with confidence that its value is incredible. The ability to relieve yourself through this form of 'meditation' that is caused by school or work is too much to describe."

Joining your school has ironically given me an insight on how relieving kung fu can possibly be and so then, I thank you for your involvement in our stride to be the best.

Sincerely your student,

Yung S.

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Dear Master Gohring:

As I prepare to test for my third sash, I also near the end of my first year of study. Having nearly a year to reflect upon my experience with the school, I can frame my time here within the context of the Five Hearts.

Faith. I have enjoyed my training at this school immensely with no regret or reservations. I had already conducted research into which martial arts and styles I would be interested in training. Having done so, my decision to attend the school was not an arbitrary one, and I can honestly say that my research has paid off. I know I have chosen the right art and remain as eager and enthusiastic to learn and participate as I was my first class.

Respect. Having spent a year studying this art, I have an immense amount of respect for everyone I have encountered. To see students work hard under the encouraging guidance of a patient, yet demanding Sifu, and to have that hard work transform them physically and mentally is truly inspiring. We have all made a commitment to this art and in so doing have become a family.

Perseverance. For me, I find this maxim applies not to the class in general, as there is no question about continuing my studies, but in a much more finite sense. I find myself in need of this idea at those times where I have been working hard, the bum has long since set in, my breath is coming hard, sweat is in my eyes, and my body screams to stop and rest. By living up to this ideal, I am able to push myself that extra little bit that I know I can achieve despite any protestations my body might have, and thus gaining that much more pride and joy from my studies.

Patience. I have found this to be the single most important maxim for two reasons. Firstly, whenever we learn a new form or technique I instantly want to master it; an obviously unrealistic goal. I know that the more I work it and practice it, it win come, but everyone I think has the desire to become adept at anything they love. Secondly, I find myself wanting to learn more, to go farther in the training and learn the advanced techniques. Instead, I try to prepare myself so that when the time comes, I am ready to benefit fully from the new lesson.

Humility. Lastly, I find myself constantly humbled by the abilities and performance of those around me, both peers and teachers, which are frequently one, and the same. To witness the puissance of those who have studied for many years not only humbles me, but inspires me to attain-the same level of proficiency and dedication. I know I have a long way to go in my studies, but I already feel that I have accomplished so much I can only imagine the heights 1 will attain as I continue my education with the school.

Sincerely,

Jason S.

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Dear Master Gohring:

I have been in the kung fu program here at Tom Gohring's School of Tai Chi for about 4 months now. I was unsure what to expect but I found the teachers and students to all be very friendly. The environment was very relaxed and the instructors are great. I was surprised how much material we covered with just 2 classes a week, and how quickly the instructors could get everyone to learn.

I am probably in the best shape since high school. I lost 2 inches off the waist and gained a lot of flexibility. My endurance and coordination have improved and I have been able to keep in good shape despite a busy schedule.  The most surprising result was the energy I gained from the program. During work and school, I have a lot more energy and determination, yet I still feel relaxed.

I would highly recommend Tom Gohring's School of Tai Chi for anybody interested in martial arts. No matter if you are looking for self-defense, health benefits, stress relief, or performance, all aims are covered by their curriculum. I enjoy the classes a lot and feel honored to be learning from these great teachers.

Sincerely,

Richard L.

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Dear Master Gohring:

I have been attending kung fu classes at your school for over four years now, and I have immensely enjoyed my experience in this training program.  Not only have I learned kung fu, I also now have greater discipline and concentration than I did in the years before I started taking classes with you.

In addition, I am also stronger and more flexible than I previously was.  I am increasing my confidence in front of a group by doing leadership with newer students.  In leadership, I have learned to speak more clearly and to show more patience towards others. "I would definitely recommend Tom Gohring's School of T'ai Chi to anybody interested in martial arts training.  Not only do you learn kung fu forms, but you also stay in top physical shape and become very flexible through training.

Sincerely,

Nathan K.

rt Blvd., Austin, TX 78752, 512-422-4245, www.taichitom.How do I get started? ClickHere

Dear Master Gohring:

When searching for a school in which I could study Kung Fu, I was looking for a friendly, relaxed and comfortable atmosphere and also a place where I could challenge myself physically and mentally. I feel that this school is such a place. The students are very gracious and encouraging and our instructor is an enthusiastic and accomplished teacher.

I have had an interest in studying martial arts since my teens and have studied T'ai Chi sporadically since that time. Kung Fu and Wushu were arts that fascinated me, but I was a bit too intimidated by to study. When I finally got up the courage to give it a try, this school was the perfect place to study for me. There are many different skill levels within our beginner class, and you can progress at your own pace. The school is truly there to help its students learn about the art and about their own abilities. Students interact with and encourage each other during class, and learn by helping each other as well as by instruction.

Physically, this class provides an excellent way to tone your body and increase your strength and flexibility. Mentally, I. have gained more confidence in myself and my decisions. I have only been studying for a few months and already I notice the positive results in my daily life. I feel much better about my physical shape, have better endurance and am more confident in my day to day actions. I look forward to going to class every week, not just for the opportunity to exercise and learn something new, but for the chance to see how much further I ran improve myself.

Sincerely,

Andrea E. Lam

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Dear Master Gohring:

Before joining Kung Fu at Tom Gohring's School of T'ai Chi and Chinese Kung Fu, I was diagnosed with a tumor. The medication I was on to treat it also caused depressions. So, after having to quit football, I didn't relly have anything to do to deal with my depressions.

I went and signed up for the [Kung Fu] classes and it really helped me a lot. The people are nice and the instructor is cool. It also helped out a lot with my depression. I feel a lot happier when I'm at the school and have been really bringing up my grades, too. There are really no down sides to joining Kung Fu. I've even increased in overall strength and fitness.

Sincerely,

Kyle B., 16

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Dear Master Gohring:

I believe that enrolling Megan in the Kids Martial Arts Program has helped her tremendously. She has become more disciplined and has learned to follow directions better. It has helped her get stronger and in better shape. She has learned a lot and has gained more confidence in herself. She has also become more goal oriented. At the start of this school year she wanted to earn her blue sash before the school year ended. Through a lot of hard work and good leadership, she accomplished her goal. I am very proud of her and I look forward to seeing her accomplish her ultimate goal of earning a black sash.

Sincerely,

Larry M.

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Dear Master Gohring:

My son, Theron (pictured), has been attending Tom Gohring's School of Tai Chi for one year. He has come to look forward to the days that he attends his martial arts class and I can see strengths that he has acquired through his instruction at his bi weekly classes.

Theron is overcoming severe dyslexia, so, he experiences frustration and struggle on a regular basis. I feel that the self-expression and relying on oneself has been great for him. Each time he achieves a new goal, he knows that he alone is responsible for reaching that goal. As he said," I really like my green sash. You know why? Because I really earned it. I feel like I'm wearing power!"

We have noticed not only a physical improvement in our son, (strength has increased and muscles are toned), but his patience and self-discipline personally (in general and with schoolwork) have improved as well.

Theron has gone to class in the midst of a "really bad day" and left class feeling great. The breathing exercises and meditation have given him skills that will help him deal with stress. I think we can all use those!

I am very happy with the instruction that my son has received in this class. I feel that his instructor has just the right balance of discipline and caring with the children. We have learned a lot in one year and we plan to continue to learn more.

Thank you, Bonnie C-K.

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Dear Master Gohring:

Max started taking kung fu lessons shortly after he turned five. He's seven now. He has been in kung fu class for two years and it has helped a lot with how much, and how quickly, Max has developed.

Since kindergarten, Max has made a habit of walking along a very uneven row of landscape timbers which are pounded on end around the edge of his school's flower garden. When he learned how to crane kick, that move became the posture on the last post. Back when he was five, Max always had to hold my hand. Now he likes me to be close by, but he doesn't need the extra balance, or reassurance, from me. His motions are smoother, and he reports being more successful when his P.E. class does gymnastics or climbs ropes.

His concentration and body awareness have also made some leaps. These are traits that I think are valuable, and things that I'd like to see him develop at an earlier age than his parents. Lately, the movements and the understanding within class appear to be a easier for Max.

I'm proud that he has kept with it and that he is on his way to gaining a lot of the enjoyment, development, and skills that martial arts has to offer. I am hopeful that Max will make this into a lifelong endeavor, and will do my best to support him.

Sincerely,

Joe H, Max's dad.

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Dear Master Gohring:

It is with great pleasure that we compose this letter, Our son Vincent has been attending your kid's martial arts class for a little over a year and the growth we have seen due to your instruction has been outstanding. We truly appreciate the time and attention you have shared with our child and his classmates.

It has been truly gratifying to see our son grow physically. His strength and coordination, his stamina and flexibility are vastly improved since he started martial arts training. In addition, his self-confidence and self-discipline have improved remarkably.

We have, and will continue to recommend your school to our friends and family. We wish you luck and continued success in all that you do.

God Bless,

Russell and Antoinette S.

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Dear Master Gohring:

Great changes have come about since our son August has been enrolled in "Tom Gohring's School of Tai Chi." We have noticed that August has displayed a more positive attitude towards routines and tasks in general. This program has also helped our son to develop mentally, physically, as well as emotionally, which in turn helps to promote his self-esteem. August has expressed to us how fond he is of his school and instructors.

Thank you for all you have done for my son and many other people who prosper because of your school.

Sincerely,

Richard C. & Deborah L.

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Dear Master Gohring:

My son, Gabriel, has been studying here for about two and a half years. Perhaps I am biased, (since, after all, he is my kiddo) but I am so proud of his progress. There have been times where he has lacked motivation, but when this has happened, Sifu Gohring has ALWAYS taken the time to talk to me about this, and devise a plan to keep Gabriel on track. Physically, the benefits for Gabriel are obvious. He is remarkably flexible and coordinated, and has excellent balance and poise. Developmentally, the program has been wonderful for him, too. He is learning virtues (the Five Hearts), which so many children today are doing without. He is learning respect for himself and others, as well as discipline. The very most impressed I have been so far though, I will have to say, was a conversation I overheard one day between two staff members. They were discussing INDIVIDUALS in a certain class, and things they as instructors could do to help the individual students. It is because of this personalized attention that Gabe and I continue to study here. It is invaluable ... and because of that we think this school is invaluable, too.

Sincerely,

Marlo M.

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