About
Way of the Fist Martial Arts Academy is a long-standing pillar of martial arts training in Quesnel - founded in 1978 as Valois Kung Fu, and proudly operating under new ownership since 2024 as Way of the Fist. The academy blends tradition, modern training methods, and a supportive atmosphere to create a space where students of all ages feel welcome, motivated, and excited to learn. Their philosophy is simple: martial arts should be fun, engaging, and enjoyable. This approach creates a place where serious training meets a positive and fun community-focused environment.
Way of the Fist offers a variety of traditional and modern programs: Kung Fu, Combat Submission Wrestling, STX Kickboxing, and Tai Chi. With a focus on high-quality instruction, confidence-building, and self-defence, each class support physical fitness, personal development, and mental discipline. Students learn as a team, grow together, and have fun. It’s not a military-style academy, it’s a place where laughter, learning, and hard work go hand in hand.
What truly sets Way of the Fist apart is its family-like culture. The academy hosts movie nights, holiday parties, and social gatherings for students, creating an environment where friendships form that extend far beyond the training mat. Many students enjoy their classes so much they don’t want to leave at the end of the session!
With its long history and drive to help you reach your full potential as a martial artist and an athlete, Way of the Fist Martial Arts Academy continues to be a place where confidence grows and community thrives.
Steven Mitchell, Sifu
Steven Mitchell, owner and Sifu at Way of the Fist Martial Arts Academy, is a lifelong martial artist with deep roots in Quesnel. Having grown up here, Steven spent time away but always felt the pull to return to the community that shaped him. When the opportunity to take over the academy arose in 2025, he seized his lifelong dream: to lead a martial arts school built on passion, discipline, and a welcoming community spirit.
Steven began training at a young age, eventually becoming an assistant instructor in his teens, giving an early glimpse of his leadership and desire to teach. His background as a personal trainer is a natural fit to instruction, blending experience in coaching, movement science, and athletic development.
Steven brings an exceptional level of certification and professional skill to his students. He is a:
- 3rd Degree Black Belt in Shaolin Kung Fu
- Combat Submission Wrestling Association Affiliate
- Level 1 W.A.K.O. Kickboxing Coach
- Canada Karate Kung Fu Certified Instructor
- International Sports Science Association Master Trainer
What Steven loves most about Quesnel is its people. He describes the community as friendly, supportive, and always looking out for one another, the same qualities he embraces within his academy. He’s proud to be operating a business in a community where connections matter and where students quickly become part of an extended family.
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Contact Information
Classes run Monday - Friday
Schedule
