THE SIFU

In traditional Chinese martial arts, the teacher is referred to as "Sifu" or "father teacher". The Sifu views his role in much greater depth than what most assume to mean "master" and carries a much greater focus on the care and advancement of the student as a whole person, a family member, and not simply improving their physical skill in the martial arts.

About Sifu McIntyre

A modern guide for traditional mastery

Sifu Paul McIntyre has dedicated over three decades to the disciplined study and transmission of the Chinese internal and external martial arts. His teaching bridges the ancient roots of self-cultivation with modern frameworks for health, performance, and personal evolution.

He began training in his youth, exploring Taekwondo and Shorinji Kempo before discovering his lifelong path within the Lau Kune Do system — a rare lineage known for its integration of traditional Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Qigong.

While earning his degree in Communication Studies at California State University, Long Beach, he began formal study under Grandmaster Richard “Hing Wo” Tsim. Over the next 18 years, he became one of the highest-ranking disciples in the lineage and a temple keeper entrusted to preserve and teach its essence.

In 2011, his journey deepened under the guidance of Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming — world-renowned scholar and founder of Yang’s Martial Arts Association (YMAA). Under Dr. Yang’s tutelage, Sifu McIntyre has continued his study of Yang Family Taijiquan, Taiji Sword, Saber, Taiji Ball Qigong, and the full YMAA Qigong curriculum.

In 2024, he formally established YMAA Orange County, carrying forward the legacy of both Grandmaster Tsim and Dr. Yang into a modern, living context.

A former All-American collegiate athlete and coach, Sifu McIntyre combines physical training, internal development, and nutritional science through his precision-based coaching systems. He is the creator of the S.E.R.T.+ Self-Defense Method and has served in professional protective services, bringing real-world experience to his teaching.

As a Precision Nutrition Level 2 Master Coach and FRSystems-certified mobility specialist, his instruction seamlessly unites biomechanics, energy cultivation, and mindfulness to develop resilient, high-performing humans.

Today, as both a Temple Keeper and founder of OC Tai Chi Academy, Sifu McIntyre teaches not only movement — but method: a path of clarity, strength, and conscious living designed for the modern world.

"Martial arts is a way of life. A true martial artist does not train to become the ultimate warrior, the world’s most physically fit specimen, or the greatest sage of all mankind. A true martial artist trains to be a better person"

Lineage & Influences

Traditions That Shape the Path

Lau Kune Do — Grandmaster Richard “Hing Wo” Tsim

A rare classical system synthesizing Hung Gar, Choy Lay Fut, Wing Chun, Northern and Southern Shaolin, and internal Taoist methods.

One of the highest-ranking disciples within the lineage
Nearly two decades of direct training
Entrusted Temple Keeper responsible for preserving the art

Yang Family Taijiquan — Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming (YMAA)

Internationally respected authority in Taijiquan, Qigong, and martial arts science.

Student of Dr. Yang since 2011, training in the Yang Family “indoor” form passed from Yang Cheng-Fu’s inner-door disciples
Authorized instructor of the full YMAA Internal Qigong Curriculum, encompassing scholarly, martial, medical, and spiritual Qigong systems
Formal study of martial Taijiquan, including Chin Na, the Taiji Fighting Set, Pushing Hands, Taiji Sword, Saber, and Taiji Ball Qigong
Founder of YMAA Orange County (est. 2024), preserving and transmitting traditional Yang-style Taijiquan

Atillo Balintawak Eskrima — Grandmaster Derrick Dalan

A precise, combative Filipino blade and stick fighting system emphasizing speed, timing, and close-quarter strategy.

5+ years of direct tutelage under Grandmaster Dalan
Integrated applications that refine sensitivity, reflex training, and tactical awareness
Complements both internal and external Chinese systems with real-world combative efficiency

Mind-Body Training & Internal Cultivation

Informed by decades of Qigong, meditation, and energy-body development across traditional Taoist and modern scientific perspectives.

Taiji Qigong, Embryonic Breathing, Four Seasons Qigong
Internal awareness, breathwork, and bioenergetic regulation

Modern Health, Mobility & Performance Systems

Bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary human performance science.

Precision Nutrition Level 2 Master Health Coach
FRSystems certifications: FRCms®, FRA®, Kinstretch®
Integration of mobility, biomechanics, and lifestyle coaching