Generally speaking, we are all students, but there are three types of practitioners in kung-fu (including Tai Chi) that are recognized in the Association: the student, disciple and master.
 
The student is concerned with learning the fundamental physical movements of kung-fu - the basic foundation of communicating with one's physical self.
 
The disciple has already demonstrated his/her ability and knowledge. At more advanced levels, disciples live the art and show a willingness to perpetuate it in order to help others be healthy, fit and in touch with themselves. They become committed to preserving the art for future generations.
 
A master not only has become an expert in kung-fu, but has also learned to integrate the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of the art as well as having concern for the well-being and personal growth of the students, disciples, the Association and him/herself. He/she becomes a standard-bearer for his/her art.

 

You don't have to aspire to teach or become a master to reap the full benefits of kung-fu or Tai Chi. Kung-fu and Tai Chi are designed for all walks of life and should above all, be a fun and rewarding experience for those who study it.
 
There is no belt or ranking system to recognize the different levels of proficiency between students in the Northern Shaolin/Praying Mantis Kung-Fu Association. Establishing arbitrary student classifications by using belt colors or a similar ranking method is improper in keeping with the true philosophy of classical kung-fu. There is no set length of time for one to become proficient. The time varies with each student's natural abilities, but more importantly, their devotion and consistent practice of the art. Students progress at their own rate according to their personal needs and goals. No student will be categorized, but accepted and treated as an individual.

 

There are, however, special sash levels for the Grasshoppers Kids Class Program. Please see the Chief Instructor for more details.
 
The adult kung-fu curriculum is divided into 12 levels as an outline for instruction and as a guide for students to measure their individual progress. A "Level Evaluation" or test is required by all students before advancing to the next level. All testing is conducted in private by the Chief Instructor and occasionally, an Assistant Instructor. Detailed descriptions of each level are shown in the Association's Handbook And Curriculum Guideline. This book is exclusively available to members of the Northern Shaolin/Praying Mantis

Kung-Fu Association. There are no contracts and no additional fees for evaluations/testing.

 

For those desiring to learn Tai Chi only, their are 9 levels for the Tai Chi curriculum. A "Level Evaluation" or test is required by all Tai Chi students before advancing to the next level. All testing is conducted in private by the Chief Instructor and occasionally, an Assistant Instructor. Detailed descriptions of each level are shown in the Association's Handbook And Curriculum Guideline.

 

Please note that the adult kung-fu curriculum also includes Tai Chi.