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Welcome to Shaolin Arts

Traditional Martial Arts.
Serious Training.

Traditional Chinese martial arts classes for adults and kids in Peoria, serving the West Valley. Build skill, strength, and discipline through committed practice. Beginners are welcome.

Try Your First Class Free

Your first class is free, with no obligation. Come experience the training and meet the people who teach it.

  • Since 1997Teaching in Peoria
  • 35+ yearsMaster Workman’s teaching experience
  • Instructors: 18 yearsAverage training
    with Master Workman
    18 yearsAverage instructor training
    with Master Workman
Four ways to train

Find Your Training

Rooted in tradition. Built through practice

Why Shaolin Arts

Learn to understand the art, not simply remember the movements. At Shaolin Arts, a connected curriculum and instructors who continue training with Master Workman help you explore how techniques work and how the principles apply.

02 / Practice

Our Method

Know what to work on next. A connected curriculum builds new skills on foundations you continue to refine.

Learn more about Our Method →
03 / Respect

Our Culture

Begin among people who welcome questions, respect their training partners, and take the practice seriously.

Learn more about Our Culture →
An instructor guiding a student in partner practice
The people beside you

Instructors with experience.
Knowledge you can draw on.

Our instructors have trained with Master Workman for an average of 18 years and continue studying with him. That sustained study helps them explain how techniques work, connect the material, and give you guidance you can put into practice.

You can ask questions, work on the foundations, and learn alongside people who support your progress. You don’t need experience to begin; bring a willingness to learn and practice.

Discover our approach to teaching →

Student experiences

What Students Are Saying

Erik Flodin

Google · 5.0 / 5

Shaolin Arts is a great place to begin or continue on your martial arts journey whether it is in Tai Chi Chuan or Shaolin Kung Fu or both. Master Workman is an excellent teacher. His staff and other students provide a very supportive environment. I highly recommend Shaolin Arts School of Self Defense and Fitness!
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Jessica Riccelli

Google · 5.0 / 5

I had an incredible time at Shaolin Arts! I went there looking for some self defense skills and even on my first lesson I went home with great takeaways that made me feel more prepared. The team at Shaolin is extremely friendly and caring especially with 1:1 assistance. I feel like they made it their mission to welcome newcomers and it really has a friendly environment of a friendly community. 10/10 recommend.
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Scott Dearden

Google · 5.0 / 5

OMG this place is awesome! I love the challenge of learning Kung Fu. Not just the martial art, but the physical workout as well. The instructors are amazing. They are incredibly knowledgeable, patient and friendly. I look forward to each and every class and thoroughly enjoy watching myself grow!
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Bernice Daneke

Google · 5.0 / 5

I started Tai Chi at Shaolin Arts March 2026. When I started I could not spread my legs and bend down and get up which I can do now without using something to hold on to. I can balance on one foot longer than I could do without using my fingers for balance So my balance has improved. Master Workman, Miss Judi and Mr Eric worked with me. They have given me confidence to get better and keep learning. I Shaolin Arts for a great learning experience and wonderful people to work with. I am 85 and never thought I would do so well.
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Cris Paltenghe

Google · 5.0 / 5

I have been studying martial arts since I was 18. I’m now 71. I’ve gone to many different martial arts schools and several different styles of Tai chi. This is one of the finest and best managed schools I’ve ever been to. Their methodology is spot on and understands what’s truly behind the Tai chi. I feel very fortunate to have found this school and become one of their students .
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Chef Tyler Marsh

Google · 4.0 / 5

ive tried to get in touch with them for 2 months about taking classes. everytime i come by the door is always locked. ill keep trying.
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KIKI

Google · 5.0 / 5

It has already been a year since I first attended the Adult Fung Fu Class at this school, led by Shi Bo Workman, who mastered the profound skills, knowledge, and wisdom as if he had lived through centuries, yet retains the passion of youth. He is so humble that whenever he has the opportunity, he greets every student with a beautiful smile. All of his disciples, who are instructors, have decades of experience, and they are the trophies themselves. What's truly inspiring is that they never stop improving themselves and share their mistakes and daily experiences with us to encourage students. They are all uniquely different, which makes the classes so interesting, and each is my favorite. The class I have been attending consists of a diverse group of people, representing at least three generations in age. Still, the instructors have a creative way of teaching that accommodates all of us at our respective levels. They are also very skilled at handling injuries. They teach us how to exercise correctly and effectively without injury, and if you already have an injury or surgery, they teach us how to practice with it successfully. Therefore, everyone can learn, improve, and enjoy at their own pace and physical condition. The class is not just about learning; their personalized, attentive approach ensures that all students feel valued and important. The class has been instrumental in my personal growth and development. It has helped me improve my physical strength, cognitive abilities, ability to cope with daily stress, and emotional stability, making me a healthier and happier person. This journey of self-improvement and discovery has been truly inspiring and motivating, and I am grateful for the guidance and support of Shi Bo Workman and all the instructors. My experience at the school has been nothing short of transformative. The school is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. It has opened my eyes to a world of possibilities and has been a source of constant fascination and amazement. I am grateful to Shi Bo Workman for providing us with this unique opportunity and space for personal growth. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to all the instructors who have generously shared their knowledge and experiences, constantly captivating my mind and soul.
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Randi Baker

Google · 5.0 / 5

Shaolin Arts Kung Fu is just about the best place to learn Kung Fu. For me it has helped me both physically and physiologically. At almost 70 it has helped me maintain an active lifestyle, lose weight, improve balance, increase confidence and of course learn self defense through one of the ancient forms of the martial arts. All the instructors and Sifu are kind and patient and always ready to help you learn to achieve your goals. You will not find a better place to learn Shaolin Kung Fu. I gave 5 stars. But If I could I would give it 10 stars. I highly recommend Shaolin Arts Kung Fu. And incidently. It's fun and I enjoy the camaraderie with my fellow students. If your thinking about it.... this is where you want to be!
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Jacquelyn Kaelin

Google · 5.0 / 5

My son has been going there for 6 years and absolutely loves it. If you are looking for a Kung fu place then this is your place. They are next to the music lesson place. They are very caring and genuinely care about their students. It has now been 7 1/2 years that my son has been going there. We both love this place!!!!
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Jesse L.

Yelp · 5.0 / 5

I would recommend this if you are wanting the have defense training and other stuff. The instructors are nice and the workouts will leave you tired
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Rick Markins

Google · 5.0 / 5

Great place to learn and grow in the world of martial arts, especially shaolin Kung fu. The instructors are awesome to work with and very knowledgeable. I always leave either better than I was or in more shape than I was.
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Jacqueline Snyder

Google · 5.0 / 5

It has been over two years since attending here but I loved my experience. All instructors are friendly, knowledgeable, and work with all levels.
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Mary Shaw

Google · 5.0 / 5

Excellent martial arts school! This school has truly gifted instructors that care about each student and are committed to helping each student reach their goals. When you join this school you join a Kung Fu family and are supported by instructors and students alike.
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Will Lahvic

Google · 5.0 / 5

I have tried several different martial arts, but I never had the privelidge of working someone as qualified as Sifu Workman until coming here. He and his instructors provide quality teaching and an experience that I have not found anywhere else. If considering class for yourself, or your child (my son has also been enrolled for 3 years), Whether looking for Kung Fu or Tai Chi, this is the place to come.
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Amara Kassing

Google · 5.0 / 5

I’ve been going here for almost a year and I love it! Everyone’s so welcoming and considerate. They give you a good workout while teaching you martial arts. They show you the best way to do things and if you have an injury, they can work around it. If there’s something you’d like to learn, you can ask them about it as well. All ages are welcome and everyone recognizes that everyone starts somewhere.
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Tammee Turcott

Google · 5.0 / 5

Master Workman is an excellent instructor! I'm taking the Tai Chi class; he makes it informative and fun with very practical applications. Everyone in the class is friendly and helpful.
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Rebecca Hsu

Google · 5.0 / 5

This is a family friendly martial arts group that emphasizes self-growth and fun. Although I say "family friendly ", I do NOT mean they are easy! You learn real life self-defense, and skills that will help you with everything- meditation, balance, coordination, and strength. They offer a lot of extras too! They can help with nutrition, weight loss and diet plans, and can give private lessons to help you get to your best self. Tai chi classes are also great, but they incorporate some meditation practices in all their classes. I found them because I was looking for a place where they were less interested in tournaments and belt levels, and more interested in what we actually learn. I have trained in many other arts over the years, and I'm less interested in trophies than in results for the real world. I spoke to Sifu Workman and I knew right away that he would be the right teacher. His first rule in class is "have fun". The final factors to convince me to sign up for a place that is almost an hour drive from my home was the fact that my teen daughter and I could be in the same class, they were willing to work with me to modify things I couldn't do because of injuries, and the cost for everything was very reasonable. I went to a free trial class and haven't stopped since. If you are looking for nice people who can really help you learn how to be a better you, then definitely check this place out.
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Micheal Ervin

Google · 5.0 / 5

Went out to train with Shaolin arts in Arizona from Colorado, it was an eye opening experience to say the least! Si Bok Workman and the Shaolin arts family were very welcoming. If you are looking for a self defense school that is not watered down this is the place to be.
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R Gould

Google · 5.0 / 5

Great instructors along with an excellent work out could not ask for more class mates are friendly and kind all ages are welcome here
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Rebecca Sullivan

Google · 5.0 / 5

I love going here the instructors are all so good they really help you to maximize your workout they show you the proper way to stand and where to place your feet i really like this place
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Ray Thomas

Google · 5.0 / 5

I’ve been here for a little over a year and can’t recommend it enough to anyone who’s looking for self defense and great exercise. Everyone here is invested in helping you achieve your fitness and self defense goals. Whether you’ve trained in any martial arts before or it’s your first experience, Sifu Workman and all the instructors are very accommodating and help you to be great no matter where you’re starting from.
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Sabrina Vargas

Google · 5.0 / 5

Master Workman is the best! I joined 20 years ago and now my son is a student there as well! We both love the environment, staff and students. This is an amazing place to learn the wonderful art of Kung Fu!
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Laura Grob

Facebook · Recommends

Sifu Workman is an excellent instructor. He gauges where you are at and pushes you a little further each time. The students here are easy to work with and help you progress. Very friendly and open atmosphere. I enjoy practicing here.
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Carl Caporali

Facebook · Recommends

All the instructors are awesome. They make it fun while learning a skill and getting an intense workout.
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Misty King

Facebook · Recommends

Great studio, amazing instructors who push you just a little more each time!
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Nicholas Whitehill

Google · 5.0 / 5

Awesome place! Both the instructors and other students are very welcoming to new students. Instructors are very knowledgeable and good coaches. Workouts can be as hard as you make them, the instructors will always find ways to push you without hurting you. Group classes usually consist of 4 - 8 people which is small enough to still receive individual attention and large enough to learn something from other students. Instructors will coach you through both the workout as well as learning new techniques and forms. You do not have to be in the best shape of your life to have a good workout and get something out of these classes! Its a great way to push yourself and learn a new skill at the time. Cannot speak highly enough about the instruction and workouts I have received here.
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D H

Google · 5.0 / 5

I have been training here only a little over a month so far, but have really enjoyed it. The group classes have good variation to not get burned out/bored on a specific focus, but overlap enough to keep progressing. Most classes split time about half technique based strength/endurance/flexibility training and half technique/form lesson/practice. They recently moved to this new location, so things are still getting set up aesthetically, but the school is open and fully functional.
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Shaolinman102

Google · 5.0 / 5

I have been coming here for several years and can't seem to stay away. Master Workman is an amazing instructor and has helped me a lot. I wouldn't mind eventually becoming an instructor here one day.
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Juanita Villegas

Google · 5.0 / 5

I have been attending Shaolin Arts (Kung Fu) for over a year now and I love it. I use to do Taekwon Do for 2 years, and the experience, training and focusing is much better at Shaolin Arts. I would recommend this studio to anyone. The instructors here are great.
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Experience it for yourself

Your first step is a free class.

New to martial arts or returning to training? Your first class is free, with no obligation. Tell us which program interests you and we’ll help you find a starting point.

Try Your First Class Free
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Instruction, practice, and demonstrations from Shaolin Arts.

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Train in Peoria

Plan your first visit.

Serving Peoria and the West Valley. Request your free class so we can help you arrange your first visit.

8271 W. Lake Pleasant Pkwy
Suite 101 · Peoria, AZ 85382

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Take the first step

Your Training Starts Here

Your first class is free, with no obligation. Tell us which program interests you. We’ll follow up by phone, email, or text to help you find a starting point at our Peoria school. No previous martial arts experience is needed.

Try Your First Class Free

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