★★★★★
“A wonderful, fun place to train mantis Kung Fu that perfectly blends realistic skills and techniques with a friendly atmosphere of cooperation and learning. A great way to stay in shape and learn cool techniques along the way!”
Rochester, NY · Since 1991
Authentic Shaolin Kung Fu. Real-world skill.
Train in Northern Shaolin Seven Star Praying Mantis — one of the most complete fighting systems in Chinese martial arts — under the only 8th-generation disciple of the style in Upstate New York.
Programs
Find your path.
Traditional kung fu for adults and children, martial-arts fitness classes, and the centuries-old art of the lion dance.
Adults & teens
Traditional Kung Fu
Empty-hand striking, grappling, forms and 18 weapon styles — every technique taught with its application.
Explore adult classes
Ages 6+
Kids Kung Fu
Confidence, respect, focus and strength — earning sashes all the way to black through hard work and study.
Explore kids classes
All levels
Fitness & Qigong
San Shou kickboxing, core conditioning, Tai Chi and Shaolin Qigong for body, breath and spirit.
Explore fitness
The style
Fierce as the mantis. Quick as the monkey.
Created by Master Wong Long in the 16th century, Seven Star Praying Mantis builds on the fighting skills he learned as a Shaolin monk — combining the lightning-fast, predatory hands of the praying mantis with the extremely efficient footwork of the monkey.
Many consider it one of the first “mixed martial arts”: the best techniques of 17 different kung fu styles, unified into a single system covering long, short and grappling empty-hand techniques and 18 weapons.
- Every technique taught with practical application
- Builds strength, endurance, focus and self-discipline
- Internationally recognized rankings
1991Teaching in Rochester since
18Weapon styles in the curriculum
17Kung fu styles unified in Mantis
10th DanChief Instructor Sifu Bateman
Lineage
An unbroken line back to the source.
Rochester Shaolin follows the traditional methods passed down from Lo Kwan Yu to Chiu Chi Man to Grandmaster Lee Kam Wing.
WL
Wong LongFounder · 16th century
LKY
Lo Kwan YuLineage master
CCM
Chiu Chi ManDisciple of Lo Kwan Yu
LKW
Lee Kam WingGrandmaster · LKW Int’l Association
BB
Sifu Brian Bateman8th-generation closed-door disciple
Our kung fu family
4.9What students say.
★★★★★
Google reviews★★★★★
“I started here when I was 10. I had never done martial arts before, but it didn’t matter. Sifu Bateman and his students helped me become the best martial artist I could be, as well as a more clear-minded and disciplined person.”
★★★★★
“We found the academy by word of mouth and couldn’t be happier. The Sifus are amazing with the kids: patient, understanding, attentive to each student, and they know how to make it a fun experience.”
★★★★★
“Coming into the fold from another discipline could have been difficult, but it has been an amazing experience. Everyone from instructors to other students have made me feel welcome.”
★★★★★
“Very good for all ages — they have classes for people with disabilities as well! Teachers are very caring and passionate.”
★★★★★
“Excellent workout routines for all ages and abilities. Friendly and knowledgeable instructors who make you feel very comfortable while learning the new routines.”
Inside the academy
Life at Rochester Shaolin.
Belt tests, lion dances, weapons, seminars with our Grandmaster and trips to the Shaolin Temple — tap any photo to enlarge.
A journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step.
Come watch any class, or join an informal class to see if it’s right for you. Call Sifu Bateman to set up your visit.