Tom Gohring's School-Tai Chi

I preface this review by stating that I hold a black belt in Taekwondo, and used to teach classes as well. I share that to let folks know I have a point of reference and experience with martial arts training. I had long given up Taekwondo due to the sheer wear and tear on my body-- chronic knee tendinitis, low back trouble from all the spinning and jumping-- I thought I was done with martial arts, but there was a part of me that wishes I could get back into it. Due to some chronic health issues (which appear to now be resolved via a successful surgery 3 months ago) I found myself unable to workout due to chronic pain problems. I used to run triathlons, and some days walking around the block felt like one. I was miserable, stressed out, in pain, and at my wit's end. Then I read a study discussing how a study placed fibromyalgia patients into Tai Chi classes, and within 3 months, these patients reported better mood, emotional outlook, and less pain. I wasn't a fibro patient, but it resonated with me. Backing up a month before this, I met Master Gohring after being selected to act in a web-based commercial for his other business, Kick Butt Coffee. I knew he had a Tai Chi and Kung Fu school, but didn't go much beyond that. Once I read the study, I thought this was the Universe giving me a hint. Here's something about Tai Chi, and I just met a guy who teaches it in my neighborhood. I called. This school is great! I hear a lot of folks saying that you can take Tai Chi for free in the park. This is true... only, here's the thing... if you're not taught the *correct* way to do Tai Chi, you can really really mess yourself up and cause injury. There is much more to it that what meets the eye. This school, and all of his instructors, take great time and detail in teaching students to do things correctly so that you have a solid foundation going forward. As a former martial arts instructor, I cannot stress this enough. It's paramount. It's major. It's the difference between having a blown out knee or a knee that will see you til you're 95. I've been a student here for 6 months and I can say I am pain free (some due to Tai Chi, some due to a successful surgery), my attitude is always better after class, and lingers well into the next day. I am stronger, I am happier, and the school feels like home. The people are friendly, they get to know you, and it's a genuinely soul-affirming place to be. I only gave it 4 stars for a couple of specific reasons. To me, it's a 5 star place, but I'm being pragmatic. Not everyone wants to learn Tai Chi as the martial art that it actually is. If hanging out in the park is your ideal, you may not like the approach. As a black belt holder, I *love* that there is a rank system. The other caveat is price point. It is expensive, and there are long-term commitments. Again, I like long-term and don't quit-- it took 4 years to get my black belt, so I'm used to it, and this didn't spook me, but your results may vary. For folks able to pay up front for chunks of training, there are some discount options. Not everyone can do that however, and the month-to-month can be more pricey than some would like. Best thing to do, is if you're interested, stop in and sign up for their introductory deal. You get a great feel for the place and it's people. more

I've always wanted to learn a Martial Art and had read about shaolin kung fu, re-sparking my interest. Then I found Master Gohring's and it was a great match. I enrolled to learn how to change my instinctive reactions from scared to defense/protection. I like learning the moves and working to perfect them. I like doing the routines and am looking forward to learning them from beginning to end. I enrolled at Master Gohring's because I liked the teaching style I observed, everyone there, students and teachers, is nice and welcoming and the yin yang on the back of the shirts matches my tattoo, almost to the exact placement. I knew it was kismet and I have been proven right again and again. more

I have now been training for approximately four and a half years with Master Gohring and am now a part-time employee; therefore I wanted to update my review. Reading my previous review I can see how it may seem ?loaded?. I was very excited about the changes in my life as a result of my training at Master Gohrings? Tai Chi & Kung Fu and may have come across as unrealistic. Pros: Great traditional Chinese Martial Atrs Training. Wonderful Master Instructor. Supportive student bady and staff. Strong sense of community. Convenient location. Good parking. Cons: None come to mind. more

Master Gohring asked me to right a review. I am glad to do it. I've been going here for about 4 months and always look forward to it. I've wanted to learn about Martial Arts for a long time. In addition, I wanted to find a way to exercise that was fun and where I would learn something. Taking Kung Fu accomplishes both. I recently moved to Austin and looked up schools on the internet. When I walked into Master Gohring's Tai Chi and Kung Fu I knew I found the right place. It felt very authentic and Master Gohring teaches the classes. It is an inspiring atmosphere where everyone wants to learn, improve and help each other out. I'm definitely doing moves that I would not have thought I could do. I'm not perfect but I make improvements with each class. In the short time I've been going, I've noticed more flexibility, strength and balance. There is so much to learn and so many benefits that I can definitely see myself doing this for many years to come. more

I'm a pretty high strung person. Walking into Master Gohrings Tai Chi and Kung Fu school was a breath of fresh air for me. It is the place i go to relax after my work day. The sense of community is strong and the atmosphere is professional, welcoming and friendly. There are all ages that train here, from kids to adults to seniors. Definitely something for everyone. Pros: where else do you go to relax? Cons: it leaves you wanting more...not really a con, is it? more

M. Growden - ?To Life? Pros: Funny, enjoyable which creates a Great enivionment for learning more

J. Johnson ? ?Knee to Renewal? Pros: Master Gohring is very patient, insightful Instructor and keeps classes Interesting! more

L. Johnson ? ?Re-Vitalized at 67? Pros: Master Gohring is a very Patient Instructor more

T. Johnson-Growden - ?The family that Tai Chi?s together stays healthy together? Pros: Friendly Informative Instruction, Family like atmosphere more

Ever since moving here from California I have been searching for a way to keep in shape. I don't like doing to gyms or playing more ""traditional"" sports because I often find them boring, and I have trouble sticking with the program. I've found that martial arts was the answer I was looking for. I tried a few over the years, in cluding Tae Kwon Do and Karate, but I've found that I enjoy Kung Fu the most. Master Gohring's school has been nothing but fantastic. The price per month is a little high, and signing contracts make me nervous, but the quality of teaching has been nothing short of surperb. Sifu Gohring teaches every class himself, and uses good examples of all the technique so that everyone in class can understand what's going on. There is a HUGE variety of things to learn, from basic kicks and punches to the 108 Tiger Crane form. One of my favorite things about class is the workout I recieve there. Some of my friends take martial arts as well, and I have joined them in their classes on occasion, but I always get the best exercise in Kung Fu. Students were asked to write a review on how they felt about traing at the school, and it took me a second to sum up my thoughts. I feel that you get the best value for both your time and money with Sifu Gohring. I've been there for 2yrs now, and I intend to keep going! more

This school has classes for adults and children, from beginners to advanced. I've been given the opportunity to take classes with my wife and daughter, allowing us to participate in some common activity and to learn something new, healthy, and useful. I feel proud seeing my 5-year-old daughter enjoy learning and participating in class. Personally, class has become a consistent way for me to get exercise and stay in shape, as well as participate in a family activity. more

At the ripe age of 48, I decided to take up a martial art. Throughout my adult life I've maintained a pretty good fitness level, but had grown tired of lifting weights and walking endless miles on my treadmill. and felt ready for a new challenge. I've always had some interest in possibly training in the martial arts, but found Tae Kwon Do--the most commonly practiced martial art in the U.S.--to be too aggressive for my tastes. And Tai Chi seemed too slow for the kind of training I was looking for. So I investigated a couple of Kung Fu schools, and easily chose Master Gohring's. I immediately liked the ""vibe"" when I first walked through the door. The staff and students are friendly and warm and welcoming. I've been training there since for about three months now, and have already noticed an increase in my aerobic fitness, stamina, flexibility and general confidence. Master Gohring exudes confidence and kindness, and is very patient with his students. And when he demonstrates the forms and movements to us, there's no doubt that he knows what he's doing. At my age I'll never be a Bruce Lee, but I do intend to earn my black sash at this school, and know that I'll have fun while doing it. more

I've discovered that people who love what they're doing, do a good job at what they are doing. The most enthusiastic person about his profession I've met in a long time is Master Tom Gohring. He asked me to write a review about what I think about his school and the first thing that came to mind was how his students see him every day. He has the ability to generate passion for Kung Fu and TaiChi because he has that same passion. I've been one of his TaiChi students for almost two years. Yes, I am passionate about this martial art and look forward to walking in the school and receiving the individual attention from this teacher each week. Anybody can do taichi. Literally any BODY, young, old, thin, not so thin, male or female can achieve this positive energy. Initially, for me, taichi provided stress relief . As I progress, I notice more balance and more confidence, physically as well as mentally, in anything that comes my way. Pros: Instructor has 20 years of experience Cons: my schedule is too busy to take as many classes as I would like to take more

When Master Gohring asked if I would take a few minutes to post a review of his martial arts school, I agreed right away. Master Gohring's Tai Chi and Kung Fu is a great place to study either discipline. I am in the tai chi program and recently began my third year. When I first came to the school as a visitor, I signed up for a few introductory classes. After about four classes I was pretty well hooked. The curriculum is well designed to help students advance through ten sash levels first as a beginner, than an intermediate, and finally as an advanced student. A student may set their own pace for attaining each progressive level. Master Gohring is a gifted instructor and takes a personal interest in every student's development. He is ever encouraging and sets an example of self-discipline, respectful of others, and faith in one's self. I hope you will visit the school sometime and perhaps get a sense of the transforming energy of tai chi. Pros: The school is conveniently located and there is plenty of parking. Cons: Have not had any negative experiences at the school more

I have been attending Master Gohring's school of T'ai Chi and Kung Fu for approximately 10 years. A friend encouraged me to try it, and I never would have believed that I would still be here 10 years later. Although I was asked to write this review, it is by no means contrived; the following is heartfelt. Pros: Covenient location, parking, class schedules, great teacher and staff Cons: Can't think of any. more

Finally, after four years I am about to test for my black sash in Tai Chi. When I came to an introductory class four years ago I had no idea that there were sash levels or that I would like it well enough to attend faithfully all this time. Sifu Gohring asked us to write about what motivated us to reamain in the program. Several things. First the school itself is fun with wonderful comrades. Second, the program has helped with balance, stamina, and coordination. Third, the classes change every six weeks with learning sessions cycling across the year. The progression across Nei Kung, the form, applications, and weapons keeps classes interesting. Whie black sash is my current ""top"" in sight, there is more - some students are now testing for second degree black sash. I look forward to working my way up the black sash ladder. more

I started Tai Chi due to a recommendation of a then co-worker, who has since retired from work. Although it took me a month less than 3 years to get my Black sash, I stayed mainly for my health, and some for peace of mind. Tai Chi is my first martial arts that I have taken anywhere. Pros: Beginners and Intermediate class time is convenient Cons: Prices may out of reach for some. more

Master Gohring has asked me if I would take a moment to post a review of my thoughts of his school in which I am one of his students. It?s kind of hard to think that it is now over three years ago when I had my very first lesson with him and little did I know I would actually be testing one day for a Black Sash in Tai Chi (actually, this Nov 18th). After all, I was there for Tai Chi, the health and wellness program thing?.. Looking back I knew very, very little about Tai Chi. I thought I was really there to find relief from my high stress career, to find my center and become healthier through Tai Chi. That was only the beginning as I quickly started to achieve the basic benefits of Tai Chi in just the first few months. My flexibility grew, my stress lowered (which is a good thing as even more stress continues to come my way), and I could bend over and get up without getting a head rush. Master Gohring opened a door to Tai Chi that is not found just anywhere. He has an open door to an Ancient Chinese Martial Art with a structured program to mark your progress so you can actually see just how far you?ve come and where you are going with no end in sight. The beauty in it all is that it?s a lifelong journey of continued growth and achievements in health, self-defense and well-being. That alone is priceless. Pros: Life changing journey with a great tour guide. Cons: Addicting - but I come from an addictive treeline... more

I joined Master Gohring's studio a little over a year ago. While there was sales pressure to sign a lengthy contract, I understand the business reasons for doing so (ensuring your students commit allows you to properly structure training without worrying about keeping your students entertained - it allows you to focus on teaching, even if they have to learn to eat bitter, rather than retaining your students by playing the entertainer instead of the teacher). Pros: Thorough training, great parking, family atmosphere, knowledgeable instructor, weapons instruction, guest instructors Cons: Expensive but worth it. more

When I decided to sign up with Master Gohring's Tai Chi & Kung Fu about a year and a half ago, it was the first and only school I visited. My first impression of the school was of a welcoming environment and a friendly staff. I hate working out because I get bored or I am afraid that other people are judging my performance. Neither is the case here. Each unit covers a lot of information and the units rotate every six weeks, so there is little time to get bored. Also, the only person judging your performance is Master Gohring, and he does not judge you against everyone else, but rather, against your own improvement and training goals. I have found myself becoming a more stable person and I can do physical things I could not do when I started. It is a little expensive, but consider this: practicing tai chi or kung fu is excellent for improving both physical and mental health. I figure that the fees are still less than a gym membership, therapy, and a lifetime of medication and other medical expenses. Even though there are other schools right around the corner from me in South Austin, I gladly make the drive to Airport & North Lamar 3-5 days a week for classes. Pros: great environment, worth every cent Cons: it's not easy - but isn't that the point??? more