“I’ve been truly transformed by this place, and not just physically! Through my training here, I have learned so much about myself, the cultures around me, and the martial arts world (past, present and future). It has truly been an amazing and humbling experience, with always something new to gain from training!

For instance, as a former Infantry Officer in the 82nd Airborne, I thought I knew all about discipline, hard work, and commitment to training. But I found it particularly hard to focus, find any sort of motivation, or any relief from the challenges I faced during my transition after a very serious injury put me out of work a few years ago.

If it wasn’t for the support, healing and positive coping environment that Sifu Chris Heintzman and the ‘Kwoon’ provided, I don’t know how things would’ve turned out. I was constantly hospitalized, in a lot of pain, and on a tremendous amount of medication, so I isolated myself from the outside world. But the peace I am finding through the tai chi, meditation and just the physical activity have made an impact on my state of mind that I will be forever grateful for.

In my years there, I have had the opportunity to meet and train with legends and upcoming powerhouses alike in the martial arts world, compete in internationally recognized venues, as well smokers and amateur MMA matches. I have since enrolled my kids in the school and hope to continue to see it grow and transform lives young and old alike!”

– Jerryll Nelson

“So much greatness in one place!! Sifu is such a humbled yet the most professionally & experienced & qualified Sifu in all of North Carolina. I as a mother must say that this gym was one of the best athletic experiences in my son’s life. It is a lot more than just a gym, everybody treats each other like family. I would recommend this place to any and everyone looking to pick up valuable self defense skills and learn combat effective Kung Fu. It also is a great place for military families. We did not have family with in the state. The Kwoon is our second family. We enjoyed celebrating the Chinese New Year and family dinners. My son was exposed to traveling amongst a supportive team. I truly believe that from 5th grade til now highschool this gym has helped keep my son out of the troubled streets and give him structure and daily purpose to uphold a higher standard than most his age.”

– Shene’ Nicole

“In the twelve years I’ve known Sifu Heintzman he has proven himself nothing less than a consummate warrior. Training goes well beyond the fight.”

– Shawn Hutson