Adult Training

We research, practice, and teach an ancient art of war known as Maan Mut Ji Do, or the “Way of Ten Thousand Things” 萬物之道 – a highly disciplined assassin’s art of stealth. Rooted in reality, practicality, and lethality, this art was developed for brutal conflict and designed to be effective even against overwhelming odds. Unlike modern martial arts, which are often diluted versions of their origins, Maan Mut Ji Do 萬物之道 retains its timeless effectiveness. It is especially valuable for those who are quieter or smaller in stature, naturally inclined to avoid conflict but equipped with a method of self-defense as powerful today as it was a millennium ago.

Why practice this art? Simply put, our social order is in disarray. Extreme violence is not only on the rise but is becoming disturbingly normalized. Knife and machete attacks are more frequent, and sexual violence is pervasive. The question is: are you prepared? An ancient Chinese proverb reminds us, “One life, one chance.” This is your opportunity to defend yourself in a world that grows more dangerous by the day.

Can this practice make a real difference? Absolutely—more than you can imagine, and beyond what words can convey. Mastery takes time: time to train, time to develop proficiency, and even more time to cultivate mental readiness. But ask yourself: what else are you doing with your life? Training in this art strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, and nourishes the soul. It fosters happiness and builds a close-knit community full of camaraderie and laughter. We see no downside—only growth.

Can anyone do this? In ancient times, everyone had to rely on themselves—whether missing a leg from combat or losing an eye in childhood, survival demanded skill. There were no guarantees then, and there are none now. However, without training both mind and body, survival becomes impossible. Not everyone will become an elite warrior, but striving for it will take you farther than you ever imagined.

Feeling awkward or embarrassed? Don’t—or at least, try not to. We are a simple, kind, and welcoming group. There’s no judgment here; we’re all busy overcoming our own challenges.

The video below gives an idea of the training and atmosphere at our adult sessions;

Les Conn, is a scholar, author, businessman, martial artist, adventurer, penjing 盆景 enthusiast, and devoted father. Les embarked on his martial arts journey in 1972. Seeking deeper knowledge and adventure, Les relocated to Hong Kong in 1987. There, he immersed himself in a formal twenty-year ‘closed-door’ 入門弟子 apprenticeship under the renowned martial master, Kwan Yuen Cheong 關潤昌. In 2010, Les succeeded Master Kwan 關潤昌 to become a 7th generation Master of the Warrior Heart 戰士心 lineage, and the only Westerner to ever be entrusted with the entire system of knowledge.

Since 1987, Les has been a pioneer in multidisciplinary, multilingual research of Chinese martial arts and their relevant military history. He specialises in the Chinese art of stealth and the historical operatives such as spies, assassins and thieves. His research activities include scrutinizing rare historical manuscripts, archaeological findings, museum artifacts, and fostering collaboration with collectors and academics alike.

Additionally, Les has conducted extensive sociological research, engaging in interviews and training sessions with members of both the Chinese and Japanese underworlds. His acceptance into these communities granted him unique research insights into their martial arts traditions and historical ties, profoundly influencing his approach to researching, practicing, and teaching the Chinese warrior arts.

Warrior Heart Institute

An outline on the Warrior Heart school, and what we do.

Warrior Heart – Online

An outline of our new online services and community. 

Warrior Heart  – Research 

An outline on the research sources and experience.