The $0/month is not a mistake or a gimmick  There is no catch.  More on that in a minute, though.

The style of karate I teach is heavily influenced by my experience in jujutsu and aikido.  While we practice traditional forms, I have also implemented elements of these systems as well.  We are a traditional dojo, which means that we adapt ourselves to the techniques rather than adapting techniques to "look better" for competition.  We seek to subdue our egos while striving for purer practice and exceptional technique.  I firmly believe that competition hinders the development of character as well as the development of polished, "real world" self-defense skills.  This was a stand that Gichin Funakoshi took in his teaching, and I find it admirable and worthy of imitation.

When I started teaching this program in 2006, I made the decision that I would not charge for it.  I want to make sure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has access to the arts that have enriched my life since I was 8-years-old.  This teaching is a gift to you, and to my teachers who gave so generously to me.

Children's Classes

I don't offer children's classes.  I do teach children, but they are expected to fit in with the adults in the usual classes.  I find that serious kids fit in just fine, rising to the occasion and learning by example how to act in a dojo environment.  Even if a child has a learning disability or ADHD, I have often had success with those who really want to learn.  I believe in patience, consistency, and compassion as teaching methods.  However, the youngest age that will be accepted is 7-years-old.

Eishin-Ryu Batto-Ho

This sword system offers an introduction to Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu Iai Heiho, a comprehensive art that traces its lineage back over 450 years.  We have been granted permission for our group from Carl Long, So-shihan of the Kokusai Nippon Budo Kai (headquartered in Pennsylvania) and operate under his exceptional guidance and tutelage.

Shindo Muso Ryu Jojutsu

The jo is a short staff, 50.25" long and 15/16ths of an inch around.  Shindo Muso Ryu is a koryu (literally "old school" or "old method") art that is traced back to 1605.  In this art, we study the jo as a weapon that fights against a sword.  The sword attacks in our practice are derived from an even older sword art, so you are really learning both as you study.  This art also contains several other ancillary systems such as tanjo, hojo-jutsu, tessen-jutsu, jutte-jutsu, and kusari gama.  This study is also conducted under the guidance of Long-hanshi.

For $100/month, you can train in either or both of these styles, and you may select from some other styles offered by other teachers at the Ryushinkan Dojo.