Paul Hendley signed up for his first karate class in mid 1989 but did not find the style to be a good fit for him.  In the beginning of 1990, he began studying Praying Mantis Kung Fu under Shifu Dave Simeone.  By the end of 1990, Shifu Dave Simeone moved to Colorado .  By the recommendation of Shifu Simeone, Paul was accepted as a student of Shifu Stan Tabor with whom he studies with on a regular weekly basis to this day.  Paul is one of only 4 people to be accepted as Shifu Tabors disciple and is one of Shifu Tabors original 'backyard' students.

Under Shifu Tabors watchful eye, Paul studied Hua Lin Praying Mantis kung fu where he advanced through the system, attaining instructor rank.

 After over a dozen years of studying Hua Lin, Paul began studying Tai Ji Mei Hua (i.e. Tai Chi Plum Flower) Praying Mantis Boxing.  It is this style of Mantis Boxing which is his main focus today.

Paul has won various awards in tournament competitions for hand forms, weapon forms, and fighting.  He has participated in several Lion Dance performances as well as other performances for various events including multiple performances at the Wang Center in Boston .  He has studied a variety of Chinese weapons including, but not limited to, the 4 main classical chinese weapons (staff, spear, broadsword, and gim).

Paul currently studies in Millbury under Shifu Tabor (http://www.mantistaichi.com ) and is available for private lessons in his Lancaster location.  He can be reached through Pro-Active Fitness or via phone at 978-870-6184.