Michael Issa has studied extensively under Master Yun Xiang Tseng, known as Wudang Chen, in the Daoist arts of Tai Chi, Xing Yi, Qi Gong and External Qi Healing. He is certified by Wudang Chen to teach the Wudang internal arts.
Michael Issa has been a life-long student of traditional martial arts since the age of six. Issa studied Taido under Uchida sensei and Okochi sensei for 10 years before exploring other styles such as Aikido, Wing Chun and wrestling. In 2006, he began training under Wudang Master Yun Xiang Tseng (Chen), a 14th generation Zhang Sanfeng lineage holder and 25th generation Longmen (Dragon Gate) Priest. Issa is currently receiving a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Georgia State University and continues his training with Wudang Chen to this day.
To learn more about Wudang Chen visit wudangchen.com.
Issa has been a regular guest speaker on the health benefits of Tai Chi at the CDC, as well as at the “Celebration of Life Conference” in Atlanta, GA for cancer survivors and caregivers. Kaiser Permanente hired Issa as a ‘Tai Chi Health Coach’ to teach tai chi to faculty and staff at the University of Georgia, Athens (article) from 2014 to 2015.
Wu Dang Chen is a 14th generation Wu Dang Zhang Sanfeng lineage holder and a 25th generation Long Men Daoist Priest.
Master Chen's mission is to build the first Wu Dang Daoist monastery in the U.S.
In October 2011, Issa was elected Team Coach of the U.S. Wu Dang Wushu Association, which sent 20 competitors to Hubei, China for the International Wu Dang Tai Chi Competition. His team numbered in gold and silver medalist. Issa, himself, won four gold medals. Issa is well-known for his easy-to-follow instructions and ability to translate eastern theory into a western context.
Issa as Team Coach of the U.S. Wudang Wushu Association in Hubei, China
Michael Issa is host of “Dao-Yin Qigong” on the AIB Network. Issa has filmed 4 seasons where he guides viewers through graceful, stretching movements combined with slow, measured breathing to enhance qi-flow and promote healing.
Accomplishments
1993 and 1996 Gold & Silver Medalist at the International Taido Friendship Games in Japan
2004 Graduate of the University of Michigan
2004-2005 Fulbright Scholar to Syria
2006 Co-founder of Kaikudo, LLC.
2008 Certified Tai Chi and Qigong Instructor by ‘Chi for Longevity, Inc.’
2009 Guest Speaker at the Celebration of Life Conference for cancer survivors
2010 Certified External Qi Healer by ‘Chi for Longevity, Inc.’
2010 Published meditation research with Dr. Charles Raison and Geshe Lobsang Negi
2011 Team Coach of the U.S. Wu Dang Wushu Association
2011 Winner of 4 Gold Medals at the 2011 International Wu Dang Tai Chi Competition
2012 and 2015 Guest Speaker at the CDC, Center for Disease Control
2013-2015 Tai Chi Health Coach for Kaiser Permanente
2015-2019 TV host of ‘Dao Yin Qigong’ on the AIB
2019 Winner of 2 Gold Medals at the European Taido Championships in Tampere, Finland
2023 Awarded 4th Degree Black Belt at the 2023 World Taido Championships in Hirosaki, Japan