Frequently Asked Questions

About The Classes

Can I observe classes?: Yes. We highly recommend visiting the school to observe one or two basic/beginner level classes. There are many choices of martial arts schools, choosing one that meets your needs and expectations can only be accomplished by seeing classes, students, and instructors in action.
The following class schedule is open to all visitors:
Monday: no classes
Tuesday: 8:30 - 9:30pm (this class is held every other week - call for details)
Wednesday: 7:30 - 9:00pm
Thursday: 6:30 - 8:15pm
Friday: current students only
Saturday: 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Sunday: current students only
Do you spar in class?: The basic level students learn Sahn Sao (Assorted Hands) techniques which combine punches, intercepting punches, kicking, blocking kicks, take-down techniques, and to a limited extent, grappling. It is our belief that without a proper and solid foundation students do not have enough skills with which to spar. Free-sparring without control or understanding of the techniques used can lead to severe injury, and yet teaches very little. This is true for any martial art, not just Praying Mantis Kung Fu.
Who teaches the classes?: Chief Instructor, Mr. Tony Chuy, teaches most every class. He takes particular interest in his basic and beginner level students, insuring they are receiving the best training and will have a rock solid foundation upon which to build future techniques. This approach is contrary to many schools whose chief instructors leave the teaching of junior students to others. Mr. Chuy is assisted each class by students who have demonstrated their understanding of the techniques being taught.
What can I expect within the first six months?: Approximately the first six months are spent at the beginner level. This involves learning the warm-up routine, proper stances, four basic level forms, and 14 basic techniques. Chief Instructor Mr. Tony Chuy focuses on students during this period to ensure they become well versed in the basics prior to advancement.
Can I take private lessons?: Yes, private lessons are available. However, a student studying alone misses out on much of the education of this style. In the regular classes students will have the opportunity to practice techniques against all sizes and levels of students. Furthermore, they benefit from having other students around for questions and observation. That being said, private classes are perhaps best utilized for additional study of current students.
Do you teach other styles in addition to Praying Mantis Kung Fu?: Yang Style Tai Chi is also taught on Sunday. Otherwise, no. This school focuses on Northern Praying Mantis. However, both the 7-Star Mantis lineage as well as the Tai-Chi Mantis lineage are taught by Mr. Chuy.

About The School

How do I join the school?: First come to see the school and a class, and fill out the brief application. Then the Chief Instructor Mr. Tony Chuy will sit with you for a 15 minute discussion about your goals and expectations. That is all. Once the initial tuition is paid (includes uniform, 45-minute semi-private class, plus first two months of instruction) you and Mr. Chuy will choose an agreeable start-date.
Do you have a belt-system for ranking and advancement?: No, we do not follow the system of colored belts to distinguish rank. However, there are five distinct levels of students within the school--each distinguished by different colored shirts.
Where are you located? How do I get to the school?: We are at 156 West 44th St, between 6th Avenue and Broadway. You can take the 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, N, Q, R, S or W train to Times Square - 42 Street.
Will the lion dance team perform at my function?: Please contact the Chief Instructor and present your request to him. Due to the large number of requests, not all can be accommodated.
What are your Chief Instructor's credentials?: In brief, Mr. Tony Chuy has studied kung fu since the age of 14. He is a closed-door disciple of the 7-Star Northern Mantis lineage and a certified instructor in Tai-Chi Mantis. The Praying Mantis Martial Arts Institute has been in operation 25 consecutive years. He has twice been featured on the cover of martial arts magazines. He and his students have performed at over 300 events. He was recently inducted in the Martial Arts Hall of Fame. For more on Mr. Chuy, see his biography.

About This Website

Can you post the moves for other forms listed on your site?: Thank you for your interest, but at this time the only forms we will post are already up. You can see a complete list of forms taught at the school on the forms page.
Can I purchase books, videos, or form sets?: Again we appreciate your interest, however we do not have books, videos, DVDs, or any other merchandise available for sale through the school.
How do I contact the school if I still have questions?: You may reach us through the Contact Us page, or visit the school in person.