Mission Statement

The mission of Mantis Martial Arts is to provide traditional and innovative training in martial arts; improve the overall, focus, confidence, and fitness of all our clients; and foster a family environment where all feel welcome. Our Kung Fu Kids After School Program’s mission is to provide a high quality program for the total child in a safe, nurturing, and educational environment utilizing appropriate martial arts activities to meet individual needs.

Values Statement

The core values of Mantis Martial Arts are integrity, discipline, and self-confidence. Our staff strives to embody these characteristics at all times and children engaging in Kung Fu Kids learn to incorporate these values in daily life.

Belief Statements

• We believe that all people are equal regardless of ethnicity, belief system, gender, or sexual orientation.
• We believe that everyone, including each child, is an individual.
• We believe each individual is to be treated with respect.
• We believe children need guidelines for appropriate behavior.
• We believe children need opportunities to develop physical, intellectual, social, emotional, and language skills.
• We believe children learn through play, instruction, peer socialization, and by asking and answering questions.
• We believe children need to be taught the importance of a positive attitude, which will not only raise individual self-esteem, but also assist in group interactions as well as boost confidence and grades in school.
• We believe that martial arts is a path to create outstanding individuals who can lead our community and be exemplary and empowered people.

What style of Martial Arts do you teach?

Kung Fu Kids, as the name implies, teaches Kung Fu. Our particular style is 7 Star Praying Mantis. As with most styles of traditional Chinese martial arts, the movements of certain animals are emphasized. The praying mantis was praised by the ancient chinese kung fu masters for its quick boxy movements as well as smooth sliding steps. The basic forms, or choregraphed movements used to teach basic footwork, coordination and combinations, in order of progression, are Xiao Hu Yeun, Bung Bu, Mei Hua Lu, and Zai Yao.

What is the significance of the Kung Fu Kids logo, the swallow with tiger stripes?

The Kung Fu Kids program starts by teaching the children a beginning form called Xiao Hu Yuen, which means “Small Tiger Swallow”. This form is designed to promote strength and coordination in children. This is why our logo fuses the acrobatic swallow with the colors of the powerful tiger. As the children progress, they will learn the other forms listed above.

What are forms and why do you teach them?

Forms are choreographed movements used to teach basic footwork, coordination and combinations, very similar to shadow boxing. They also promote cardiovascular fitness, strength, and balance. Forms are taught as a way of remembering combinations of strikes and kicks. Every child will know the significance of each movement in the form and be able to use them fluidly.