FAQs: The Training
- Is training open to everyone?Bujinkan martial arts training is open to the vast majority of people. There are however, some limitations imposed by the headquarters in Japan on membership. Briefly summarized, membership is not open to people who have a criminal record, who abuse illegal drugs, who are mentally unwell or who demonstrate that they can not exercise self-control.
This is for the good of society as well as for the good of the Bujinkan organization. The complete list of rules and regulations for membership is contained in a document entitled 'Guidelines for Participation' which can be accessed via our Quick Links page.
- I have never studied a martial art. Is this a problem?Definitely not! Having no prior martial arts training experience may work in your favor as many folks have a hard time letting go of the things they know and adjusting their perspective. Coming in with a clean slate and an open mind is a great place to start from.
- I have studied other martial arts. Is this a problem?No. Most Bujinkan students have experience in other systems. Some come to the Bujinkan with a diverse palette of well developed skills. The issue is in clinging to what we know, or think we know.
If we cling to prior training, when we see similarity in technique we assume it is the same and say, "I already know this." There is no learning here. There is no evolution.
A more productive approach is to put aside what we know and sincerely focus on what is being presented. Open up to the learning opportunity and challenge yourself. This applies to all students [and instructors!] regardless of how long they have been training.
- Do I have to be physically fit?It helps if you are in good health but do not let a perceived lack of fitness stop you from training. Regular participation in our classes will greatly improve your overall physical condition and coordination. Members are encouraged to engage in some kind of supplemental conditioning at home, between classes. A healthy diet, including plenty of water, will help.
All prospective members are encouraged to consult with a physician prior to commencing training. Especially if there is a pre-existing condition or family history of heart and lung disease.
- I am in my 30's/40's. Am I too old?Considering that Hatsumi-sensei is now almost 80, we would say no. However, Bujinkan Budo is a physical system and there may be areas of training that are problematic for you initially. You will be guided through these areas, practicing at an intensity level appropriate to your physical condition.
- What is the average student age?The majority of students are professionals in their 20's, 30's & 40's.
- Do you teach young children?At this time we do not teach anyone under the age of 16. We may add classes for younger students in future. In the meantime we encourage you to enroll your child(ren) in Judo. It is a wonderful system of physical development and will lay a great foundation for studying other martial arts. A list of Judo clubs in Manitoba can be found on the Judo Manitoba website.
- What is a typical Taijutsu class like?Most classes start with a few minutes of joint limbering/range of motion exercises then move into mobility and agility exercises to 'warm-up'. This is followed by technique practice for the remainder of the session.
The majority of techniques are practiced "hands-on" with one or more training partners. All techniques are practiced in a dynamic fashion with an emphasis on timing, distance and position. Partners provide realistic attacks, adjusting intent and speed to the ability of the person they are working with. Training weapons are often introduced to reinforce the underlying principles of the techniques being worked, as well as expanding the skill set of each student.
As a result of this "hands-on" training approach, our classes involve a great deal of body contact with the hands, feet, knees, elbows and heads of other participants; being thrown, tripped or otherwise brought off of one's feet and dropped to the ground by other participants; and having pressure applied to joints and other anatomical points by other participants. As noted above, it can also involve exposure to and physical contact with training weapons.
- The last bit sounds painful. Are there a lot of injuries?Bujinkan martial arts involve 'whole being' (mind, body and spirit) interaction between people. It is impossible to engage in this kind of close proximity practice without having our perception of discomfort/pain continually challenged. For many this is a completely new realm of experience. We have drawn from years of training experience and a number of excellent resources to create a series of exercises and drills to help people adapt during the initial stages of training.
As far as injuries go, bruises are more common and are accepted. Beyond that our training is safe/as safe as it can be. During all activity we continually stress safety and the correct body mechanics relating to every technique we practice. We also continually remind students to practice at an intensity level appropriate to both themselves AND their training partner.
- How big are your classes?Average class size is 6 to 10 students.
We limit the number of students attending each class; 12 students for Taijutsu (unarmed) classes and 10 students for Weapons. This ensures a level of personalized attention that you cannot find elsewhere.
- Is there a belt system to denote ranks?Yes, we use the standard Bujinkan 3 colored belt system; white, green and black.
- How long does it take to move through the ranks?An emphasis on the fundamentals is essential for technical excellence within any martial arts training. To ensure that they master the fundamentals completely, new students follow a step-by-step system with specific skill development per training level.
More experienced students explore variations and are expected to demonstrate the ability to apply techniques in free-response conditions against non-compliant opponents. The time it takes to achieve this level of technical sophistication varies with each individual.
"A belt covers 2 inches of your back - you have to cover the rest".
If you train only to achieve a specific rank you'll find yourself frustrated and envious of those with higher rank, and you may never reach your goal. Train to be your best, train for continuous improvement, and you will advance in rank.
- How often should I attend?We expect all students to attend a minimum of two classes per week.
- Can I attend only weapons classes?No.
FAQs: How to Join
FAQs: Other Q&A