Zhen Ren Chuan Martial Arts

My 9 year old son has been a student of Instructor Charles at Zhen Ren Chuan for about 7 months now. It has been a completely positive experience for our family. After a year, I had to join myself, and now it's a full-fledged family affair! In a short time, I find myself feeling calmer, more energetic, more flexible, stronger, and loving what I'm learning (while seeing that it's a lifetime of learning). Maybe this is why my son has been so happy! Previously, my son was doing soccer and that was cheaper, but it was chaos. And he wasn't into it. We also tried T-ball, basketball and swimming, but none of those really worked. I think the reason why martial arts is great for my son is because he enjoys being in his body and he enjoys the fundamentals and movements; also he does well with the structure Instructor Charles places around the classes. There is a sense of camaraderie among the students, but it is non-competitive. And this is a real plus, I believe, for kids to be able to learn that the biggest challenge is to challenge yourself. Charles calls this "Success," and I agree with him. At first I was a little concerned about the cost ($125 per month on my plan--it can be cheaper), but now it feels like a bargain. We go three days a week, and my son is on board. Once he is in his uniform it is martial arts time. Three days a week boils down to about 10 bucks a class and I think it's a good value. The classes are well attended but never too full, and my son gets lots of personal attention (as do all the kids). He is learning a lot, and I can see from watching and observing the other kids and families that he has much more to learn. He knows it too. So, who is the Instructor Charles guy? Well, aside from being the heart and soul of the operation, Charles sets the standard for the school. He is friendly and welcoming, he invites respect, he in clear in his speech and expectations (a quality I really admire), he is fair, he is a natural teacher, he loves children, and he is very skilled in the martial arts. Is he strict? Yes. He is strict, but the kids know he is fair. What do the kids learn? Well, I have no background in martial arts, but my understanding is that Charles teaches Chinese-based kung-fu forms with a combination of tai chi forms. The kids also learn meditation techniques and self-defense. There is a great focus on martial arts fundamentals, flexibility, coordination, body awareness, personal conduct, school traditions (like rank, showing respect, etc) and learning a little bit about Chinese philosophy. They do not spar and they do not engage in any activities which are likely to cause an injury (I haven't seen an injury in 7 months). The practicing they do with weapons appears to me to be more decorative routines that emphasize coordination and body awareness and NOT fighting. I think if you want your kids to be able to really beat on other kids, this is not the school. This school is much more likely to teach your kids to be disciplined and make good decisions....and to be able to protect themselves if needed. Bottom Line: I wouldn't change it! It's a great place. Great vibe. Charles is really cool and great with kids, and a fine martial arts instructor. Definitely come by and observe a class and even better if you can see a community demonstration. It's amazing to see what the kids (and the adults) do at their big events! The intangibles: -great location in Arlington Center -lots of girls. Not all boys -opportunities for adults to participate and/or train too -it's fine to watch, all are welcome. The fine print: - There are weapons, but kids learn the safe, respectful use of practice weapons (non-harmful) and this is pretty cool. Great for coordination, and quite amazing to watch their synchronized routines -There are minor upcharges for Seminars -There is a "belt" system, but it's not like what you might see on TV. It's just different, and the kids don't really make a huge deal out of it, which is a plus in my book." more

Zhen Ren Chuan Martial & Healing Arts has helped my body endlessly. I really like the integration of internal martial arts and various other styles that they teach. The structure and discipline that I have gained have benefitted my growth, both physically and mentally. Zhen Ren Chuan offers a positive attitude and approach to health that have been well worth my energy and time. One thing I really like about them is their focus on body movements and how it can really help strengthen you in an environment that prevents injury. Look no further for the best martial arts center in Massachusetts. more

The commitment of Zhen Ren Chuan Martial & Healing Arts' staff is solid. I have found the results to be astounding. Anyone looking to try a martial arts system should consider their services. I would recommend going there regularly so that they can offer you the physical benefits that have changed my life. more

This came to my attention, and needs to be available: ""My 9 year old son has been a student of Instructor Charles at Zhen Ren Chuan for about 7 months now. It has been a completely positive experience for our family.\r \r Previously, my son was doing soccer and that was cheaper, but it was chaos. And he wasn't into it. We also tried T-ball, basketball and swimming, but none of those really worked. I think the reason why martial arts is great for my son is because he enjoys being in his body and he enjoys the fundamentals and movements; also he does well with the structure Instructor Charles places around the classes. There is a sense of camaraderie among the students, but it is non-competitive. And this is a real plus, I believe, for kids to be able to learn that the biggest challenge is to challenge yourself. Charles calls this ""Success,"" and I agree with him.\r \r At first I was a little concerned about the cost ($125 per month on my plan--it can be cheaper), but now it feels like a bargain. We go three days a week, and my son is on board. Once he is in his uniform it is martial arts time. Three days a week boils down to about 10 bucks a class and I think it's a good value. The classes are well attended but never too full, and my son gets lots of personal attention (as do all the kids). He is learning a lot, and I can see from watching and observing the other kids and families that he has much more to learn. He knows it too.\r \r So, who is the Instructor Charles guy? Well, aside from being the heart and soul of the operation, Charles sets the standard for the school. He is friendly and welcoming, he invites respect, he in clear in his speech and expectations (a quality I really admire), he is fair, he is a natural teacher, he loves children, and he is very skilled in the martial arts. Is he strict? Yes. He is strict, but the kids know he is fair.\r \r What do the kids learn? Well, I have no background in martial arts, but my understanding is that Charles teaches Chinese-based kung-fu forms with a combination of tai chi forms. The kids also learn meditation techniques and self-defense. There is a great focus on martial arts fundamentals, flexibility, coordination, body awareness, personal conduct, school traditions (like rank, showing respect, etc) and learning a little bit about Chinese philosophy. They do not spar and they do not engage in any activities which are likely to cause an injury (I haven't seen an injury in 7 months). The practicing they do with weapons appears to me to be more decorative routines that emphasize coordination and body awareness and NOT fighting.\r \r I think if you want your kids to be able to really beat on other kids, this is not the school. This school is much more likely to teach your kids to be disciplined and make good decisions....and to be able to protect themselves if needed.\r \r Bottom Line: I wouldn't change it! It's a great place. Great vibe. Charles is really cool and great with kids, and a fine martial arts instructor. Definitely come by and observe a class and even better if you can see a community demonstration. It's amazing to see what the kids (and the adults) do at their big events! \r \r The intangibles:\r -great location in Arlington Center\r -lots of girls. Not all boys\r -opportunities for adults to participate and/or train too\r -it's fine to watch, all are welcome.\r \r The fine print:\r - There are weapons, but kids learn the safe, respectful use of practice weapons (non-harmful) and this is pretty cool. Great for coordination, and quite amazing to watch their synchronized routines\r -There are minor upcharges for Seminars\r -There is a ""belt"" system, but it's not like what you might see on TV. It's just different, and the kids don't really make a huge deal out of it, which is a plus in my book."" more

I have been taking tai chi chuan for a year and a half and like it very much. The constant flow of movement takes my mind off mundane things, helps me combat lower-back pain, and improves my balance. Instructor Charles gives personal attention to everyone. more

My 9 year old son has been a student of Instructor Charles at Zhen Ren Chuan for about 7 months now. It has been a completely positive experience for our family.\r \r Previously, my son was doing soccer and that was cheaper, but it was chaos. And he wasn't into it. We also tried T-ball, basketball and swimming, but none of those really worked. I think the reason why martial arts is great for my son is because he enjoys being in his body and he enjoys the fundamentals and movements; also he does well with the structure Instructor Charles places around the classes. There is a sense of camaradarie among the students, but it is non-competitive. And this is a real plus, I believe, for kids to be able to learn that the biggest challenge is to challenge yourself. Charles calls this ""Success,"" and I agree with him.\r \r At first I was a little concerned about the cost ($125 per month on my plan--it can be cheaper), but now it feels like a bargain. We go three days a week, and my son is on board. Once he is in his uniform it is martial arts time. Three days a week boils down to about 10 bucks a class and I think it's a good value. The classes are well attended but never too full, and my son gets lots of personal attention (as do all the kids). He is learning a lot, and I can see from watching and observing the other kids and families that he has much more to learn. He knows it too.\r \r So, who is the Instructor Charles guy? Well, aside from being the heart and soul of the operation, Charles sets the standard for the school. He is friendly and welcoming, he invites respect, he in clear in his speech and expectations (a quality I really admire), he is fair, he is a natural teacher, he loves children, and he is very skilled in the martial arts. Is he strict? Yes. He is strict, but the kids know he is fair. \r \r What do the kids learn? Well, I have no background in martial arts, but my understanding is that Charles teaches Chinese-based kung-fu forms with a combination of tai chi forms. The kids also learn meditation techniques and self-defense. There is a great focus on martial arts fundamentals, flexibility, coordination, body awareness, personal conduct, school traditions (like rank, showing respect, etc) and learning a little bit about Chinese philosophy. They do not spar and they do not engage in any activities which are likely to cause an injury (I haven't seen an injury in 7 months). The practicing they do with weapons appears to me to be more decorative routines that emphasize coordination and body awareness and NOT fighting.\r \r I think if you want your kids to be able to really beat on other kids, this is not the school. This school is much more likely to teach your kids to be disciplined and make good desicions....and to be able to protect themselves if needed.\r \r Bottom Line: I wouldn't change it! It's a great place. Great vibe. Charles is really cool and great with kids, and a fine martial arts instructor. Definitely come by and observe a class and even better if you can see a community demonstration. It's amazing to see what the kids (and the adults) do at their big events! \r \r The intangibles:\r \r -great location in Arlington Center\r -lots of girls. Not all boys\r -opportunities for adults to participate and/or train too\r -it's fine to watch, all are welcome.\r \r The fine print:\r \r - There are weapons, but kids learn the safe, respectful use of practice weapons (non-harmful) and this is pretty cool. Great for coordination, and quite amazing to watch their synchronized routines\r -There are minor upcharges for Seminars\r -There is a ""belt"" system, but it's not like what you might see on TV. It's just different, and the kids don't really make a huge deal out of it, which is a plus in my book.\r \r more

dear instructor charles-\r \r \r i wanted to let you know that you have really made a very\r positive impression on elliot (who recently turned 5 y/o).\r \r after we played an energetic wrestling game tonight, i\r suggested we do some sea turtle breathing to calm down. he quickly took me up on the offer and after the first spell,\r he asked if he could get his black uniform shirt because he\r wanted to pretend he was the instructor.\r \r please know that he had me do: knee kick, front snap kick,\r jump snap kick, and various punches. please know he even corrected my hand position on more than one occasion! he got jamie to hold the heavy bag for us so we could practice our kicks. all the excitement was followed by sea turtle breathing and 2 minutes of meditation.\r \r all in all, he led a 20-25 minute class completely on his own.\r \r like i mentioned to you the other day, we feel so lucky to\r have found our way to your class. we have all learned so\r much.\r \r with kind regards,\r \r sara more

This is a true Martial Arts Center. The head instructor Charles is great with the children. \r I drive from Lynn to Arlington to bring my pee-wee son for classes. Highly recommended! more

My 9 year old son, who has been practicing martial arts at the center for a year, attended one week of the children's summer camp and absolutely loved it. He is more interested now in continuing his practice than ever. While the abilities of the students range from beginner to advanced, the instructor kept the pace interesting for all and also mixed in a good balance of Chinese art and cultural lessons. The class was small enough for all of the kids to get to know each other and have fun. My son came out of the camp feeling happy and confident every day. more

Having visited a number of schools during my stint in the area, I can comfortably and honestly say that Zhen Ren Chuan Martial Arts & Healing Center is one of the best. Both instructors are knowledgeable, dedicated and enthusiastic, and willing to work with students of all age and skill levels. During my time as a student there I would occasionally be in early enough to observe the kids classes taught by Mr. Charles DeVirgilio, the owner of the school, which was always a lot of fun. He would engage the kids with games and interesting learning devices to help teach them basics, and he always approached the classroom with great passion and a sense of humor which the children responded to and thoroughly enjoyed. It was great to watch some of the younger students move through the curriculum as they learned more intricate physical movements and important life lessons through their training. Zhen Ren Chuan is truly a gem in the realm of martial arts for kids-- where else are you going to find a group of five year olds who know (and can enthusiastically tell you.. at volume..!) the difference between victory and success? Who demonstrate control and respect to one another? Not many places, and certainly not many martial arts schools. more

My son really enjoys his Karate lessons at Zhen Ren Chuan. There is an emphasis on being respectful and focused. Instructor Charles is helping him learn excellent Karate skills and complex moves in a variety of styles. Since the class is not too large, my son has been able to learn quickly and get more attention to improve. The class is disciplined but fun activities and weapons training are integrated which helps keep children and teen interest. more

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I started my practice in the martial arts under Instructor Charles DeVirgilio in 2002 at the age of twelve. At the time, my mother and sister had been taking lessons for a few years, and I felt that it might be an appropriate means of maintaining my own physical activity and building self-confidence about who I was and how people saw me. Under Instructor Charles more

My 12-year-old daughter and I have both attend classes at Zhen Ren Chuan for about a year. I am thrilled with the improvement in her strength, confidence, coordination and focus. I'm so glad she has found an activity that stimulates her mentally and physically. All three teachers are very attentive, enthusiastic. and skilled at motivating both children and adults. They teach a broad mix of martial arts, exposing the unique traits between them and allowing the overlaps to reinforce each other. One could never be bored in these classes with the variety of forms and exercises that are taught. I thought I was in pretty good shape after taking tai chi lessons at the Y for a couple years, but I've been amazed at how much farther I've come with the personal attention and depth of knowledge of the instructors. I'm in the best shape of my life (and I played varsity basketball 30 years ago in high school). My daughter and I highly recommend Zhen Ren Chuan to anyone who wants to learn more about themselves and enjoy an amazing workout at the same time. more

I have been practicing at Zhen Ren Chuan for a bit over two years. Instructor Charles D. pays personal attention to my individual needs (as he does with each student), my being over 50 yo, and having essentially no prior experience in martial arts. We consult regularly regarding my progress, my physical and overall well-being, and he makes suggestions or adaptations to the specific comments. Since establishing the present staff at ZRC about a year ago, Charles has fostered a very supportive and comfortable environment --- while still demanding individual commitment to training. ZRC has helped me lose weight, gain flexibility, learn interesting ways to exercise and perhaps defend myself if needed. All of this has been accomplished in an open and friendly environment. Each of the instructors has an important role in the ZRC school, with Charles being the anchor that provides constant positive encouragement and training. Instructor Ian is an extremely experienced, talented and dedicated practitioner, and provides critical feedback on each individual's strengths and weaknesses, with suggestions as to improvements that can be made. Instructor Lindsay provides additional advice and leadership and is an exemplary model of what an individual can achieve with dedication, hard work, and focus. She provides helpful guidance as to how each individual's movements, practice and development might be improved. The strength and focus that she demonstrates is inspiring. As you can see from the reviews of students who actually attend the school, the ZRC Martial Arts Center provides excellent instruction, and provides a strong supportive environment where an individual can work hard to improve their physical health and, concommitantly, improve such areas as focus, concentration, positive attitude, confidence, that helps each student in their quest to improve themselves. As a bonus - the relationships developed with the instructors and other students continues to be a pleasure. more

I joined Zhen Ren Chuan in July of 2010. Over the past nine months I have noticed many beneficial changes from my training at the school. Vastly improved flexibility, increased muscle mass, and improved stamina are the most visible improvements. Unseen but just as important is an increase in mental discipline, patience and focus. Prior to joining the school I had a moderately active lifestyle (some gym, running, hiking), but fitness was never really a serious goal or achievement of mine. Training at ZRC has turned that into a reality. Every class is physically and mentally challenging, but I find myself wanting to come back the next day, to continually improve and build upon and what I've learned so far. The curriculum has significant depth and variety, as well as weapons practice for the advanced students. I come 4-5 times a week now and there's always more to learn! The instructors here are highly qualified and very skilled at guiding students of all abilities. Being terribly inflexible, many of the movements were far beyond me when I started. This was initially frustrating - I saw the gulf of ability between myself and the instructors as a tremendous obstacle. The instructors have helped me to work through this and improve my range of motion. It wasn't easy, but I had someone there every step of the way - to teach, encourage, push, and above all, believe that I could succeed. One day I realized I was able to lock my leg out and kick above my waist. Later on I could touch my toes. It seems simple enough, but having never been able to do these things before. I was incredulous, but the evidence was staring me right in the face. Instead of stopping there, I have embraced new goals. The limits I mistakenly believed I had no longer exist, having been replaced by new limits. With time, hard work, and the support of the great instructors and other students at the school, I'm confidant that I will surpass those as well. And the next set. And so on. I would highly recommend this school. Come by, talk to the instructors, and try out a class! Even if you're already active through a gym, running, cycling etc. this school could serve as an excellent cross-training activity. You won't regret it! more

I recently attended a 3-hour seminar at Zhen Ren Chuan, martial and healing arts systems. I am not a regular student at the school, but came from Maine specifically for this seminar, with my own instructor and fellow students. This is the second seminar I have attended taught by Ian Factor. My instructor, a long-time student of Instructor Ian, enthusiastically recommended attending this seminar. I was very pleased with the experience. It was positive, fun, and a great introduction to the martial art of Baguazhang. Instructors Ian and Charles bring a different but complementary approach to teaching. They were very attentive, energetic, and knowledgeable. The quality of the instruction was excellent. The lesson plan flowed well, and enough details were given, without overwhelming the student. The exercises were explained and demonstrated well. I learned new stretching, warm-up, balancing, and strengthening exercises. There was emphasis on correct body alignment, not only to avoid joint injuries, but how to loosen up, relax, and rotate areas that are not normally addressed in other exercises. They introduced how to wave the spine in order to generate power. We learned another uniquely challenging exercise that engaged every part of the body to move in a circular, fluid motion. Part of the challenge involved isolating body movements but synchronizing the timing and flow. We were also introduced to Baguazhang circle walking with single palm change, which is apparently typically reserved for more advanced students. Although seemingly simple, the effects of learning and practicing the circle walking was profound. The circle walking seemed to elicit deep feelings, an awareness of a primal nature. As we walked, breathing silently, walking stealthily, focusing intently on the center ball, I could not help but feel I was circling prey, in a relaxed and controlled manner. The mind was quiet, focused, unified with the body. The closing meditation allowed us to reemerge and transition from the circle walking in a peaceful, powerful way. I was awash in feelings of stillness and quiet awareness. Along with the physical benefits of the circle walking, it seemed to be a good way to clear the head and focus when one has trouble focusing during a sitting meditation. There were several people at the seminar who have never done any martial arts before, and I think they at least came away with new methods for increasing flexibility, strength, balance, and relaxation. But I think they came away with more. I've participated in yoga, and various athletic and dance endeavors, but martial arts is certainly unique. The instructors have an uncommon depth and breath of knowledge, and seem to offer their knowledge generously to the willing student. The instructors have strong backgrounds in both the fighting aspects of martial arts and its healing potential. I think the dedicated student can learn much from these instructors, and be inspired to reach for one's higher potential. more

I love going to class at Zhen Ren Chuan Martial Arts Center. The instructors are passionate about teaching and sharing their great knowledge, I feel wonderful after each class, I learn something new in each class, and each class is challenging enough were I feel like I?ve accomplished something wonderful each day I attend. I?ve been going for six months now, and physically my body has changed so much for the better. I?ve lost weight, my muscle tone is becoming nicely defined, my flexibility is better and my physical strength has improved. Mentally, I?m more patient, focused, and have a far more positive outlook on many things. As an added bonus, as each week goes by, I feel more confident that I would be able to defend myself and my loved ones if, God forbid, I had to. You can?t get all this out of going to the gym. Because of the mental & physical benefits, I believe that practicing martial arts will be something I will continue to do for the rest of my life. more

I brought my nephew to the studio because he wanted to study Ju Jitsu and ""get stronger"". He has gotten much, much more than that. His self control and body awareness have greatly improved and he is showing more self discipline both in his school work and at home. I couldn't be more pleased with the attentiveness of the teacher and my nephew's enthusiastic participation! Pros: Strong trainer and excellent program more

I have attended this school for four years and in this time I have seen many improvements in myself. I started out looking for strength and balance from the martial arts and have gained that and more. I have increased my self confidence, awareness, and sharpened my mind. The benefits gained have enabled me to perform better at my job to the point it has been recognized reflected in an increased salary and respect. more