East West Kung Fu FAQ - Tri-Valley Martial Arts Questions Answered - San Ramon, Alamo, Lafayette

Bok Fu Do means "System of the White Tiger" and is a comprehensive Chinese kung fu system developed by Senior Grandmaster Richard Lee in 1967. The system blends traditional Chinese kung fu with modern combat disciplines including elements of Kenpo Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Ju Jitsu, and kickboxing. Bok Fu Do emphasizes fluid, circular movements and practical, modern self-defense, using the opponent's force against them rather than meeting it head-on.

Bok Fu Do uses circular, redirecting movements and aims to avoid relying purely on brute strength, unlike many Japanese karate styles which use more linear, sharp movements. The system integrates physical techniques with mindfulness and character development, forging champions in life rather than just in skill. This philosophy makes it suitable for all body types and emphasizes practical self-defense over pure power.

East West Kung Fu was founded in 1967 by Senior Grandmaster Richard Lee and is America's premiere Chinese martial arts school. With over 50 years of history, the school maintains three Bay Area locations (San Ramon, Alamo, and Lafayette) and employs over 50 active instructors certified by the International Bok Fu Do Association (IBFDA).

The school has an exceptional competitive record, winning the Grand Championship at the International Kuo Shu Championship Tournament 20 times, including a twelve-year run from 2001-2012 and most recently from 2021-2024. Students regularly compete and win at national and international tournaments.

Senior Grandmaster Richard Lee (1942-2025) founded Bok Fu Do in 1967 and dedicated nearly 60 years to developing students. His legacy continues through the schools and certified instructors he trained. The organization's instructors are trained with Grandmasters, Masters, and black belts twice weekly to ensure consistent quality and ongoing development of the Bok Fu Do system.

Children can begin the Youth Kung Fu program as early as age 3½ years old, with readiness assessed during the complimentary introductory lesson. The school offers separate programs for youth, teens, and adults of all ages. You are never too old to begin training - the adult program welcomes beginners of any age and fitness level.

East West Kung Fu offers:

• Youth Kung Fu (ages 3½ and up): Character development, coordination, discipline
• Teen Programs: Advanced techniques, confidence building, competitive training
• Adult Kung Fu: Fitness, self-defense, stress reduction for all experience levels
• Tai Chi: Health, wellness, stress reduction particularly beneficial for seniors
• Weapons Training: Traditional forms and practical applications
• Competition Team Training: For students interested in tournament participation
• Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction available alongside group classes
  
  

East West Kung Fu provides birthday parties, winter camps, teen camps, corporate self-defense seminars, and world tournament training intensives. These special programs are available across all three locations—contact your preferred facility for scheduling and availability.

The children's program offers physical, mental, and emotional benefits including:

• Physical: Improved coordination, motor skills, strength, flexibility, balance
• Mental: Better focus, discipline, problem-solving skills
• Emotional: Increased self-esteem, confidence, respect for instructors, peers, and self
• Character: Goal-setting, teamwork, perseverance, leadership

Parents consistently report major improvements in their children's ability to focus, attitude, and skills, often within just a few months of training. One parent noted their son "started when he was 4.5 years old and has been studying ever since - Bok Fu Do has changed my life."

Adults benefit from improved physical fitness, stress reduction, practical self-defense skills, increased confidence, and mindfulness development. The system accommodates complete beginners and does not require prior martial arts experience. Tai Chi classes offer particular benefits for seniors including improved balance, flexibility, and mental clarity.

Students progress through the colored belt system based on skill development rather than time alone. Parents report improvements in discipline, focus, self-confidence, and overall attitude. The school's strong student retention suggests long-term commitment, with multiple reviews mentioning students attending for "several years." The nearly 60-year history and competitive success demonstrate the effectiveness of the Bok Fu Do system.

Yes. Students represent the USA in international competitions, including teams competing at the World Kuo Shu Championship Tournament. East West Kung Fu has produced world champions and maintains one of the most dominant records in tournament history. Competition is optional - students can focus on personal development, self-defense, or traditional forms without competitive pressure.

Yes. Safety is the highest priority with all sessions led by IBFDA-certified instructors in a controlled, supportive environment. Beginners start with foundational techniques, non-contact drills, and basic forms. Sparring and partner drills are introduced gradually under supervision as students progress. The system's emphasis on redirecting force rather than strength-based techniques makes it safer for all body types.

The curriculum includes:

• Traditional Forms: Classical kung fu patterns and movements
• Practical Self-Defense: Modern, applicable defensive techniques
• Weapons Training: Traditional weapons as part of advanced study
• Tai Chi: Health-focused internal martial arts for wellness and stress reduction
• Mindfulness & Character Development: Integration of mental discipline with physical training

The emphasis is on traditional martial arts plus practical self-defense rather than purely competitive sport. Students seeking full-contact fighting or MMA should ask about the amount of live sparring included.

Bok Fu Do uses a colored belt system progressing from white through intermediate colors to black belt. Students advance based on demonstrated skill development, attendance, and performance rather than time alone. Specific belt testing schedules and requirements are discussed during enrollment. Parents should ask: "How many belt promotions occur per year?" and "What is the average time for a student to reach the next belt?" for their child's age group.

Book a complimentary private introductory lesson with no pressure or obligation. During this session, instructors assess readiness (particularly for younger children), demonstrate the curriculum, explain the program structure, and answer all questions. Contact any of our three locations—San Ramon (925) 355-9091, Alamo (925) 831-0292, or Lafayette (925) 283-2021—or visit bokfudo.com to schedule.

The school offers:

• Complimentary Private Introductory Lesson: Free one-on-one session to try the program
• 5 Private Lessons for $100: Special introductory package (normally $450 value)

These options allow students to experience the training before committing to regular membership.

No prior experience is necessary for any program, including adult classes and Tai Chi. The curriculum is designed to accommodate complete beginners with progressive skill development.

All three locations offer flexible scheduling with multiple class times for kids, teens, and adults throughout the week. The San Ramon location operates Monday-Friday 10:00 AM-7:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM-1:30 PM. Alamo and Lafayette locations maintain similar schedules—contact your preferred location for specific hours. Separate Tai Chi schedules are available at all facilities. The flexible scheduling supports families with busy work schedules.

With multiple class times and programs throughout the week across three locations, students have several possible class slots. If you miss a class, ask the staff about make-up policies during enrollment. The three-location structure provides additional flexibility—students can attend classes at any location based on their weekly schedule.

The school offers both group and private lessons and maintains healthy student-to-instructor ratios for safety and individual attention. Class sizes are managed to ensure proper spacing and personalized instruction. Parents should ask about current class sizes for their child's specific age group during the introductory lesson at their preferred location.

Tuition runs between $55 and $60 per week for both youth and adult programs, with the exact cost depending on the specific program and any family discounts. This equals approximately $220-240 per month based on four weeks. The school emphasizes transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprise costs.

East West Kung Fu offers:

• Month-to-Month Memberships: Flexible option without long-term commitment
• Multi-Month Plans: Savings on longer programs
• 12-Month Program: Includes 12 private lessons for enhanced learning

Specific membership details are discussed during the complimentary introductory lesson.

The school has a Pro Shop for student needs. Based on martial arts industry standards, expect:

• Uniform (Gi): $25-100 (typically purchased from school with patches/logo)
• Belt Testing Fees:) No testing fees
• Replacement Belts:  $40
• Weapons (Advanced Students): Varies by weapon type
• Sparring Gear (If Required): $50-150 for pads and protective equipment

Exact costs and requirements are discussed during the introductory lesson. Ask: "What exactly is included in the weekly tuition?" and "Are there required equipment purchases and when do they occur?"

The school states they believe in transparency with no hidden fees or surprise costs. However, typical additional costs to clarify during enrollment include:

• Uniform cost and when purchased
• Belt testing fees and frequency
• Equipment for weapons training
• Optional seminar or tournament fees
• Membership cancellation or hold policy if you travel or need time off

Key cost questions to ask:

• "What exactly is included in the weekly tuition?"
• "Are uniform or belt-test fees mandatory and when do they occur?"
• "Is there a contract or month-to-month option?"
• "Are there required seminars or tournament fees?"
• "What is the cancellation or membership hold policy?"
• "Are there family discounts for multiple students?"

East West Kung Fu operates three convenient locations throughout the Tri-Valley Bay Area:

San Ramon Location:

• Address: 2242 Camino Ramon, Suite 101, San Ramon, CA 94583
• Access: Easily accessible from I-680 and Bollinger Canyon Road
• Serves: San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton, Danville
• Phone: (925) 355-9091
• Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00AM to 10:00PM, Saturday 10:00AM to 1:00PM

Alamo Location:

• Address: 3000 Danville Boulevard, Suite N, Alamo, CA
• Access: Easily accessible from I-680 and Danville Boulevard
• Serves: Alamo, Walnut Creek, Danville, Blackhawk
• Phone: (925) 831-0292
• Hours: 10:00AM to 10:00PM, Saturday 10:00AM to 1:00PM

Lafayette Location:

• Address: 3482 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, CA
• Access: Easily accessible from Highway 24 and Mt. Diablo Boulevard
• Serves: Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga, Pleasant Hill
• Phone: (925) 283-2021
• Hours: 10:00AM to 10:00PM, Saturday 10:00AM to 1:00PM

All three schools feature professional training facilities with ample parking and accessibility accommodations. Visit bokfudo.com for detailed driving directions, facility photos, and class schedules for each location. The three-location structure allows families to choose the most convenient facility or attend classes at multiple locations based on their weekly schedule.

The facility:

• Accepts credit cards for convenient payment
• Provides bike parking
• Offers both group and 1:1 private sessions
• Maintains a clean, safe training environment
• Provides proper equipment for kung fu and Tai Chi practice
• Has appropriate mats, weapons, and fitness equipment

Standard car parking is available at the commercial location, though specific details should be confirmed when visiting.

During your visit, observe:

• Cleanliness: Floor mats, equipment, waiting areas
• Safety: Proper spacing, equipment condition, safety protocols
• Environment: Student behavior, instructor-student interactions, supportive atmosphere
• Waiting Area: Comfort for parents picking up children
• Equipment: Quality and variety of training tools

Visit during an active class to see the actual training environment and interactions.

All instructors are certified by the International Bok Fu Do Association (IBFDA). The instructor staff of 50+ includes world-class certified martial arts instructors, black belts, and world champions. Instructors train with Grandmasters, Masters, and black belts twice weekly to ensure consistent quality and ongoing development.

All three East West Kung Fu locations (San Ramon, Alamo, and Lafayette) employ IBFDA-certified instructors including internationally recognized black belts and award-winning instructors . Each location maintains a dedicated team of certified black belts and world-class instructors. The specific instructor team varies by location, so ask about current lead instructors when you visit or call your preferred facility.

Quality is maintained through:

• Mandatory IBFDA certification for all instructors
• Twice-weekly training with Grandmasters and Masters
• Nearly 60 years of refined curriculum and teaching methodology
• Consistent application of Bok Fu Do principles across all locations
• Regular evaluation and ongoing instructor development

East West Kung Fu emphasizes character, respect, discipline, and personal development beyond just physical technique. The atmosphere is described as supportive, fun yet challenging, with a strong community feel. Parents appreciate the encouraging environment that helps even shy, cautious children build confidence while teaching kindness, consideration, and respect.

Reviews consistently mention:

• "Instructors are very patient and kind but strict in maintaining discipline"
• "Marked life improvements for kids and adults"
• "Strong focus on leadership development and social skills"
• "Supportive community with family interaction"
• "Fun yet challenging classes that maintain student interest"

Some families drive an hour each way from Napa to attend, demonstrating strong loyalty and satisfaction.

Yes. The school hosts events including tournaments, camps, birthday parties, and seminars that build community connections. Families interact and support each other's progress. The long-term student retention and multi-generational involvement indicate a strong community atmosphere.

East West Kung Fu offers:

• Nearly 60 years of history: Proven system with established curriculum
• Exceptional competitive record: 20 Grand Championships at International Kuo Shu
• Three Bay Area locations: Alamo, Lafayette, San Ramon for convenience
• IBFDA certification: Standardized, professional instruction
• Unique services: Corporate self-defense seminars, camps, special events
• Traditional + Modern: Balance of classical kung fu with practical self-defense

The school describes itself as "the premiere Chinese Martial Arts School in America" with international recognition for success in world competition.

Observe:

• Class size for your child's age group
• How beginners are integrated into classes
• Safety protocols and sparring introduction
• Instructor interactions with students
• Student behavior and engagement
• Facility cleanliness and equipment quality

Ask:

• "What does the first few classes look like for beginners?"
• "How is sparring introduced and supervised?"
• "What is the actual schedule of available classes per week?"
• "What happens if we miss classes - are there make-ups?"
• "How does belt progression work and what is the expected timeline?"
• "Are there required gear purchases or mandatory events?"
• "Is there a parent observation area for children's classes?"
• "For adults: What specific self-defense training is included?"

Bok Fu Do emphasizes traditional martial arts, character development, and practical self-defense rather than purely competitive sport fighting. While the school produces world champions in traditional kung fu competition, students seeking MMA-style full-contact training or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu should ask specifically about live sparring and competitive fighting components to ensure the program matches their goals.

Ask about the membership hold policy for travel or temporary breaks and the cancellation process during enrollment. Specific policies vary by membership type (month-to-month vs. annual plans).

Advanced students can participate in:

• Weapons training and advanced forms
• Competition team preparation
• World tournament training intensives
• Instructor training pathway
• Specialized seminars and workshops

Yes. Visit during active class times to observe the environment, instructor interactions, and student engagement. The complimentary private introductory lesson also allows you to experience the training directly before making any commitment.