The style that I study and teach is called American Taijutsu. It’s origins lie in traditional Taijutsu, which is the unarmed training, both striking and grappling, of Budo Ninjutsu. From that base, many aspects of other martial arts have been added such as kicks and punches from Tae Kwon Do and arm locks and throws from Judo and Aikido. In addition, Intermediate Students will learn the use of and defense against commonly used weapons. I will continue to add new techniques as the school grows and changes. The primary purpose of our art is self-defense. Most of our techniques are very pragmatic with very little “artistic flare.” I use a standard belt progression system to denote level of training.
I don’t advertise and I don’t actively recruit new students. Everyone that has found our school has done so by word of mouth. Our classes are held in a backyard dojo. This has a combined effect of keeping the overhead down, and teaching us to defend ourselves on uneven terrain and in varying degrees of weather. The school overall, is an informal school, we get a good workout and education, but we are also all friends in the class. Currently, the levels of education offered at my school range through Purple Belt. Any training beyond that level will be determined once a student reaches that point.
The cost for each class is $5.00 due at the end of each class. At beginning levels, a white Gi is needed and should be purchased before the tenth class. Male students will also need to acquire groin protection as soon as possible. Female students have the option of using chest and groin protection. Gi’s generally run $25.00 to $35.00. Gis and protective gear can be purchased at any martial arts supply store (I recommend Karate Mart). Promotion tests and board-breaking seminars, however, do require advance payment. Private classes are $30.00 and can be arranged with the instructor in advance. At beginning levels, tests will occur approximately every three months. Testing fees are $30.00 per student and include the new belt, certificate and all boards and/or bricks required for breaking demonstration.
Classes will be held at a home near the cross streets are 35th Avenue and Greenway. Once you are accepted as a student, an exact address will be given. You can reach me at Sensei@americantaijutsu.com for additional information. Each class is approximately two hours long and we take frequent breaks for water. Two classes are currently scheduled per week; Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. and Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. It is recommended that each student attend both classes each week for consistent retention and progression.
Each student should bring his or her gi, protective gear, sparring equipment and weapons as is appropriate for your rank. Each student should also bring water to drink during class.