Although we do not teach a formal or specific Japanese Martial Art, we do work out in a traditional dojo atmosphere. We believe that the only thing anyone can control in this world is ones self. If we can control ourself in a fight, then we will have a better chance of surving the violent encounter. The formal dojo environment provides a disciplined atmosphere that promotes learning and safety. We also teach respect for each other. Without respect there can be no exchange of ideas. Without respect there is no progress or learning. Respect preceeds discipline! In a violent encounter, discipline is where selfcontrol come from.
Most of our classes are two hours in duration with the usual warm up sessions at the beginning. We learn the techniques by practicing in a two person kata drill format with one person acting as the uke (attacker) and the other as the tori (defender). Almost all classes end with a free style randori session stressing life like close to full force attacks. We believe this is the only way to prepare for real life attacks. We also use multiple ukes versus one tori to enhance the pressure of the defender.
Because our training methods are very close to real life conditions, we spend a lot of time practicing ukemi. Regardless of the skill level of the student, we all practice ukemi in every class. Our ukemi practice is dynamic in nature. Our students suffer very few injuries during practice.
In our classes we also spend a lot of time shifting from a variety of formal and informal stances. This style of practice assists our students if they are attacked out of surprise.
We do use a belt ranking system that is like most other martial arts styles. We do this to indicate the students level of skill. Our system commences with a white belt and progresses to orange belt, green belt, brown belt, and black belt. The teachers in our dojo also wear the traditional hakama of aikijujutsu. Each belt level requires a series of techniques and a randori level that is more advanced than the last belt. In order to become a black belt and teacher the IMAF must review the student's skill level and pass them. This methods assures a quality test and hence, a quality teacher.
