Wah Lum Martial Art Academy

Wah Lum Kung Fu Athletic Association is a traditional Chinese martial arts school in Boston’s Chinatown teaching Northern Praying Mantis Kung Fu. Training covers hand and weapon forms, two-person sets, self-defense, sparring and Tai Chi, with the aim of building well-rounded martial artists. Students progress at the pace of their own abilities, and the school challenges both newcomers and active students in the physical, mental and philosophical sides of the art, supported by a dedicated staff of instructors.

The Wah Lum system traces back to Lee Kwan Shan, who trained for ten years at the Wah Lum Monastery in Shandong province and blended Praying Mantis with his family’s Tam Tui style. His last disciple, Grandmaster Chan Pui, brought the system to America, starting Wah Lum Kung Fu of the U.S.A. in Boston’s Chinatown more than 50 years ago. The association has been in the Boston area since 1970, and since 1984 it has been led by Sifu Bob Rosen, a 7th generation disciple.

What to Know

• The Northern Praying Mantis system is said to have been created by Master Wong Long more than 380 years ago.
• Grandmaster Chan Pui was among the first martial arts instructors to emphasize diversity and open his school to all who would work hard.
• Long-term benefits the school cites include self-protection, knowledge of traditional weapons, Eastern philosophy and Chinese herbal medicine.
• The school is listed by Chinatown Main Street.