Pat Hancock has practiced martial arts for over 35 years and is a world-ranked master instructor. He was trained by Grand Master Huang-Chien Liang who gave his blessing for Pat to establish his own school. He is the 1996 gold medalist in the International Kung Fu competition and the 1986 bronze medalist at the World Kung Fu championship in Taiwan.
Pat met his master when he gave a friend a ride to a Kung Fu class in 1973. An agreement for six months of classes evolved into a lifelong commitment. Pat started learning Kung Fu, but found that Tai Chi helped him build muscle control and strengthened his health. This allowed him to improve his Kung Fu training, which led him to the world championships. Offering instruction in Tai Chi to individuals with serious health issues, such as substance abuse and cancer, and seeing their health improve, inspired Pat to open his own school. His commitment to making healing available to others is now leading to the expansion of the Body Balance programs to massage, and acupuncture.
While he experienced years of strict traditional training from his master, Pat has used his intuition and compassion to develop a teaching style that is gentle and encouraging. His unique style, honed through years of experience, combines the relaxed internal style of Tai Chi with the fast smooth character of Kung Fu in a holistic manner that makes martial arts available to everyone, not just the elite athlete or the determined warrior. Pat finds satisfaction in watching his students move from struggling with aspects of their lives to having deep confidence and inner peace physically, mentally and spiritually.
Body Balance was featured on CBS Capital Edition, Washingtonian Magazine and Tai Chi Magazine. Pat served as consultant to the National Institute of Health and as stress management instructor for Maryland public schools. His services are recommended by area physicians, psychologists and chiropractors.
A Balanced Lifestyle
Pat and his family have for many years journeyed on the path to a balanced lifestyle that flows in harmony with nature in the Taoist tradition. Creating a sustainable way of life and sharing that with others is a healing art of stewardship. You are invited to join the exploration by learning more from these websites:
Other Instructors
Pat Hancock is personally responsible for all instruction at Body Balance. Over the years he has learned to analyze the components of martial arts training to create a structure that is highly effective for a wide variety of people. All instructors at Body Balance are personally guided by Pat and have the benefit of working with a highly experienced master.