Chien Hong School Of Kung Fu

I few months ago, I came to Chien Hong looking to pursue an interest in kung fu that I had for years. I was 36 years old with absolutely ZERO martial arts experience. I spoke with Shi Fu Gary Mitchell and immediately realized that he has a deep understanding and passion for kung fu and Chinese culture. He is an excellent teacher that will push your physical and mental abilities. I participated in one class, and I was hooked. Shi Fu Mitchell and the Chien Hong family welcomed me into their family from the moment I walked in the door. Shi Fu Mitchell and the other students are always willing to clear up any questions that I have and help me advance in my training. It is a great training environment where everyone is pushing each other to do their best. While I am very early in my training, I still feel that I have pushed my boundaries and physical limits. Also, I have an erratic work schedule, so I appreciate that there is a mix of morning classes and evening classes. I highly recommend anyone with an interest in kung fu or martial arts to pursue training at Chien Hong School of Kung Fu whether you have previous martial arts experience or not.

I actively trained here for a number of years under Sifu Gary Mitchell. He is a dedicated, traditional instructor who tries to convey both the physical and cultural components of the art.

I’ve been training at Chien Hong for a year now and have plans to be there for quite a while. I’m one of those who gets hopelessly bored at the gym, and elementary gym class flashbacks pretty much prevent me from ever going out for any team sport, ever, so martial arts is one of the few ways I can happily get a workout in. (Funny how the idea of a punch to the gut is way less frightening than the thought of hanging out in a baseball dugout, but apparently someone read way too much into Lord of the Flies as a child.)
The school is run by Shi Fu Gary Mitchell, who has been training in kung fu for 20+ years. He offers traditional Hung Gar kung fu (for adults and for kids) as well as Tai Chi Chuan and self-​defense, and there will also be a new Wing Chun class this fall. No matter the style, though, Shi Fu tailors the material depending on who is attending and what their level is. So, no two classes are the same: you may see elements of boot camp, shadow boxing, light sparring, etc., or you might focus on particular techniques (hand strikes, blocks, kicks, and so on).
There is also a specific curriculum you have to know for your level, so you’re always learning new things and finding ways to improve upon what you already know. Shi Fu is undoubtedly devoted to the art, so he has has high expectations for his students and is continually motivating us to give it our all.
There’s an awesome community at Chien Hong. The training brothers and sisters are super supportive and friendly, and they’re always happy to answer questions and help you practice. Also, the school participates and performs in lots of activities around Atlanta – Chinese New Year and parades, notably – so that’s pretty darn nifty to show off to your friends and family.