Multiple Styles

Interview with Andree Kielholtz of Shorin Kan Dojo

1. Who is the dojo’s founder and what prompted him/her to build the school? Is there any rich history behind its making?

I am the founder of our dojo, the Shorin Kan Dojo in Sonthofen, Germany. The original Dojo was founded in 1986 when I started teaching as a brown belt out of the garage of my parents. Back then, there was no real karate dojo nearby, and since I had traveled a lot to my teachers, I finally made up my mind and started to teach. Today, I guess I was simply desperate and looking for some training partners. The location of the Dojo moved several times over the years till I found a nice place in Sonthofen in 2006. It was like a dream come true since I had always wanted to build a traditional dojo in the typical Okinawan style.

I am quite glad because I had a lot of martial artists from all over the world visit our Dojo, and everybody told me that at the moment they entered they felt like being in Okinawa.

2. What forms of Japanese martial arts do you teach in your school? Can you please share with us the history behind them?

At the Shorin Kan Dojo, we teach several arts, concentrating in our classes on Karate and Kobudo. For the most advanced students, we also teach the basics of Ken Jutsu, mostly based on the Iai of the Setei Kata and Eishin Ryu curriculum. In addition to that we also have a “non classical” group for Kickboxing and self-defense.

3. What are the principles and concepts that you uphold and try to instill in your students?

To us it is very important that no style is superior to another and we are all only searching for a way through different paths. This is why we are teaching Katas from Shorin Ryu (Shuri – Te) as well as Goju Ryu (Naha – Te) background.

4. Why do you think it is important for people to learn martial arts?

Since people study the martial arts for several reasons, we try to address a lot but not all of them. Reasons to enroll in our Dojo are as individual as every student that enters through the door. At first they want to lose weight, get in shape, have some workout or simply to learn how to defend themselves. After a while, one can see that it doesn’t matter how different their intentions were, they all get to see that there is always more in a good martial art then one can see on the surface. I am very happy that, although our group keeps growing, all of our members see their fellow students in the Dojo as a big family.

This is a very important point for me as an instructor, since martial arts turn into business more and more. I don’t want to turn my students into no name numbers and I am proud to say that it is still possible to teach the idea of traditional Budo like honesty, discipline, loyalty and courage.

5. What difficulties and obstacles have you encountered so far with regards to teaching martial arts and how did you overcome them?

When we moved the Dojo to its current location, I started to teach a kids class also. Before, I didn’t have the time to do so, and at first it was pretty hard for me to get used to this different approach of teaching. But when single parents started to enroll their so called “problem children” (which are often labeled “ADD” also), I could see how these kids grew and turned into good students, not just in the Dojo but also in school. Giving these children a helping hand to live a successful life is more than an instructor or teacher can ask for.

6. What advice and/or insights can you share with our readers who want to pursue their interest in the Japanese form of martial arts?

I think there is no “general advice” for a layman to find a good dojo. I often read about credentials, high Dan certificates or recognition form a Japanese organisation. While this can tell something about the technical qualification of an instructor, it doesn’t say much about his abilities to teach other people. So my only advice would be to make an appointment, visit a dojo, and observe the instructor during the class. Try to talk to some members after the class and find out how the structure of the dojo is working. Most important of all, trust your feelings when meeting your future instructor. It’s like finding a good doctor; trust everything.

Always keep in mind that the typical Japanese way of teaching is different from our western approach. Anyway, this mustn’t be confused with military drill our yelling at students. A friendly-but-straight-to-the-point style of teaching will guarantee your best possible success in learning.

7. Can you give a short biography of your instructor(s)?

My instructors are:

Heinz W. Köhnen Sensei
Köhnen Sensei is a martial artist for over 50 years. While living in Japan and Okinawa for over 10 years, he had the opportunity to learn from some of the most respected Japanese Grandmasters of their time. Besides studying Karate, he went on to learn Ken Jutsu, Aikido / Aiki Jutsu and even an old version of Te (old Okinawan fighting system) and came across such names as Sugino, Wakayama, Shian Toma, Kobayashi and Uehara. A former IMAF (Kokusai Budoin) national director Köhnen Sensei today resides in Freiburg, Germany and teaches various martial arts out of his Budokan Dojo.

Shifu Serge Seguin
Born and raised in France, Shifu Seguin started his martial arts instruction in Savate (French Kickboxing) under his father. Meeting Grandmaster C. Flowers in the 70’s he learned the Wing Kido Kai System from Flowers and was named European Chief Instructor after Flowers return to the US in the 80s. Being one of the pioneers of Wu Shu in Germany and Austria, Shifu Seguin travels to China every year to get instructions from his teachers Yuen Xi, the Wu family, and highly respected Wu Bin. Living in Munich, Germany, Shifu Serge Seguin teaches Wu Shu, Taiji, and Wing Kido Kai Martial Arts in his “Lang Long Wu Shu school”.

Interview with James Huss of Suenaka Zenzan Dojo

1. Who is the dojo’s founder and what prompted him/her to build the school? Is there any rich history behind its making?

Suenaka Zenzan Dojo was founded by James Huss in August, 2006. I opened the dojo for two main reasons: to spread the Aikido and Karatedo of Sensei Roy Suenaka and to improve my own martial skills through teaching and training. I couldn’t claim a rich history; however, in the short time we have been open, we have gained an excellent reputation around town and among Sensei Suenaka’s other dojo (about 20 in all). Our methods of training and the results we have achieved, to me, are quite impressive. I have white belts who can perform techniques that many Sandans, Yondans, and Godans can’t even perform. (It helps to have a 6’4, 330lb student to practice on!) I also have several students who have trained at all of the other Aikido dojo in town and chose mine because they saw its superiority. I owe much of that to my teacher and my own attitude toward
training. I train hard, spend a great deal of time in the dojo, and refuse to let ego stand in the way of my personal development.

2. What forms of Japanese martial arts do you teach in your school? Can you please share with us the history behind them?

The two arts that are taught at the dojo are Suenaka-ha Tetsugaku-ho Aikido and Matsumura Seito Hakutsuru Shorin-ryu Karatedo. Suenaka-ha Tetsugaku-ho Aikido means “Suenaka style, philosophical way Aikido”. Sensei Suenaka was a student of O’Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido. After O’Sensei’s death several of his top students, namely Koichi Tohei of the Ki Society and Kisshomaru Ueshiba of Aikikai, split from each other. Originally a student of Tohei Sensei but still loyal to the Ueshiba family, Sensei Suenaka was caught in the middle. In addition, the Ki Society tended to focus primarily on ki development and philosophy, while Aikikai focused primarily on the techniques without the ki development. Suenaka Sensei saw this as a dilution of O’Sensei’s original teachings; therefore, he began teaching Aikido as he had been taught, with an emphasis on ki development through the techniques. Thus began Suenaka-ha Tetsugaku-ho Aikido.

Matsumura Seito Hakutsuru Shorin-ryu Karatedo means “Matsumura orthodox white crane Shaolin style Karatedo”. Sensei Suenaka learned this art in Okinawa from Hohan Soken, great-grandson of Bushi Matsumura, the legendary founder of Shorin-ryu karatedo and bodyguard to several Okinawan kings. This style is a family art, lacking the sport influence present in so many styles of karatedo that descended from Chojun Miyagi, Gichin Funakoshi, and other karatedo masters who changed their art in order to teach it in schools and spread it more rapidly. Matsumura Seito is a very soft art that includes grappling techniques, nerve attacks, and open hand striking—techniques absent from most modern karatedo styles. A true master, Hohan Soken taught all his students differently based on their particular skills. Already a Sandan in Aikido, Soken Sensei saw the softness and fluidity of Suenaka Sensei’s technique; therefore, in his teaching Soken Sensei focused more on the softer, Hakutsuru aspects of his karatedo, rather than the harder, Shorin-ryu techniques. This softness and lack of sport influence is what sets our Karatedo apart from most other styles.

3. What are the principles and concepts that you uphold and try to instill in your students?

The principles of our training are just that: principles. Many martial artists focus on techniques. Students will learn a catalog of several hundred techniques thinking that the more techniques they know, the greater their skill. This, in fact, tends to have the opposite effect. My students and I focus on repetitive training of basic techniques, focusing on basic principles. We train the principles through the techniques so that, eventually, there will be no technique, only principles. I would rather a student practice one punch 10,000 times than learn 10,000 different punches and only practice them a few times. Otherwise, perfection will never be attained. Perfection of technique is another goal of our training, and my standards for perfection and mastery are very high. Karatedo and Aikido are lifelong pursuits, not something that can be mastered in five, ten, or even 20 years. With perfection of technique comes perfection of mind, body, and spirit. Like O’Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, my own personal goal in training is to eventually reach a type of spiritual enlightenment based on the philosophies of Taoism and other mystical practices. I try to instill this higher goal in my students.

4. Why do you think it is important for people to learn martial arts?

Self-defense, of course, is the primary goal of a beginning student of martial arts. I worked as a bartender and bouncer for almost ten years, and I used my knowledge of martial arts to settle many disputes. However, I firmly believe that if as person is to study martial arts for 40, 50, or 60 years, like my own teachers, he or she needs a higher purpose. To me, the most important reason for studying martial arts is to perfect the body, mind, and spirit. The physical training coordinates the body. The scientific nature and specificity of learning challenges the mind, and the meditation and breathing help to elevate the spirit. The ultimate coordination of these three, in my opinion, leads to the enlightened human being. This is the greatest benefit of martial training.

5. What difficulties and obstacles have you encountered so far with regards to teaching martial arts and how did you overcome them?

I have been extremely lucky in my efforts to teach martial arts. I was lucky enough to find a facility with a great deal on rent and wonderful landlords. I also have a day job that pays my personal bills. I do not depend on a great deal of income to sustain the dojo, so I have not had to sacrifice my integrity to pay the rent. In other words, I don’t use contracts, I don’t emphasize tournaments, I don’t run “after-school” kids’ classes, and I don’t water down my training. The students that stick with me work hard—the ones that don’t want to train the way I train are naturally weeded out. We are like a family that trains hard and strives for perfection. Since the majority of my students are experienced in other martial arts, one minor obstacle I have encountered is changing previously acquired bad habits. Since my students have the right attitude toward training, this has not been that difficult.

6. What advice and/or insights can you share with our readers who want to pursue their interest in the Japanese form of martial arts?

My advice for the student of Japanese martial arts, or any martial art for that matter, is first, to find a skilled yet humble teacher who studied under a skilled yet humble teacher. Second, to train in a dojo that emphasizes perfection of technique rather than competitiveness and ego. Third, question everything: if the art is truly effective, your questions will be answered. Teachers who demonstrate but do not explain are typically trying to hide something: usually a lack of knowledge or deception. Fourth, rely on science, not mystery. Find a teacher who can explain the figurative language in real, literal terms. For example, ki means energy: physical, measurable, kinetic energy. If your teacher only talks of it as some metaphysical, mysterious force, he or she does not truly understand it.

7. Can you give a short biography of your instructor(s)?

I am the only instructor at my dojo, and I am currently ranked Sandan under Sensei Suenaka. I began training Shuri-ryu in 1988 under Sensei Jeff Linville, a student of Kyoshi Ridgely Abele. I continued my training under Kyoshi Abele, who was a student and chief instructor of Robert Trias, the first man to teach Karatedo in mainland U.S. and founder of the Shuri-ryu system. In 2001, I met Suenaka Sensei and began my training in Aikido and Matsumura Seito Karatedo. In 2006, I began training Yang style Tai Chi Chuan under Sifu Wei, Kuang-tao. Sifu Wei began his training in the 1920s at the legendary Shaolin temple in China and has been studying Tai Chi for over 50 years. Other than the physical aspect of martial arts, I am also a devout practitioner of my own personal syncretic form of mysticism based on Taoism, Buddhism, mystical philosophy, and modern science.

Interview with Dr Nigel Farrier of The Martial Arts Education Centre

1. Who is the dojo’s founder and what prompted him/her to build the school? Is there any rich history behind its making?

I, Dr Nigel Farrier, am the founder of the Martial Arts Education Centre. I have been teaching the martial arts since 1996 starting with karate. I had rented a variety of halls from the local council but each year had to reapply to the council for the hall. Every couple of years, the council would want to change the times or the days that were available. After several years, this became intolerable. However, there were not enough students to be able to afford leasing a premise. I then decided to bite the bullet and lease somewhere that could be called “home” for my very own style of martial art.

In 2002, I founded the Martial Arts Education Centre which was then teaching a Shotokan based Karate and Japanese Ju Jitsu. The style taught was my very own which I had formed through my studies of several martial arts.

I later added Okinawan Kobudo to the list of styles I have been teaching.

After several years of leasing the premises, the school had grown in size to the point where a new and larger school was required. It was then that I purchased the current home of the Martial Arts Education Centre in Mandurah, a larger unit that would allow for future growth.

2. What forms of Japanese martial arts do you teach in your school? Can you please share with us the history behind them?

I originally obtained my first black belt grading under Kanazawa Sensei of the Shotokan Karate International. It was at that time that I also started to study other martial arts which included Japanese Ju Jitsu and I also continued my studies of Okinawan Kobudo that I had started whilst a kyu grade in karate.

I studied under many different instructors in all three martial arts and gradually formulated my own style which I called Koshin Bushido Kai Karate, Ju Jitsu and Kobudo. The name basically translates as The Old and New Warrior Way Federation of Karate, Ju Jitsu and Kobudo. I felt the name reflected Funakoshi Sensei who once said ‘Cherish the old but embrace the new’. The style embraces my thought as it is a very traditional style (cherishing the old) but also involves new techniques, technologies and modern weapons (embracing the new).

3. What are the principles and concepts that you uphold and try to instill in your students?

When the Martial Arts Education Centre was first formed, I looked for a motto that reflected my way of thinking. I came up with the saying ‘Achievement through Excellence of Character’.

Students are all taught the importance of the traditional values of respect which helps build good character. Other values such as honesty and loyalty are just as important in improving the students’ overall character. We have another saying, ‘Changing the world one student at a time.’

4. Why do you think it is important for people to learn martial arts?

There are many reasons why people should study the martial arts apart from the character benefits. Improvement in health, fitness and flexibility are some of the other benefits that training can give a person.

Add to that the ability to defend oneself and ones family or have the confidence to just walk away makes studying the martial arts a well rounded art. You can not get so many benefits form any other sport.

5. What difficulties and obstacles have you encountered so far with regards to teaching martial arts and how did you overcome them?

The most difficult challenge in teaching is when a student quits. This can really hurt sometimes as one asks questions such as ‘What did I do wrong?’ and so on. Eventually one has to realise that people quit for many reasons and it is not a bad reflection on the instructor. Even so, to realise what they are going to miss out in life still hurts.

6. What advice and/or insights can you share with our readers who want to pursue their interest in the Japanese form of martial arts?

I look back at when I had just started training and realise that it was quite hard work. Some days I just did not feel like going to training but went anyway. After the session, the endorphins were circulating throughout the body and I realised why I should keep going.

New students need to keep in mind that a black belt takes years of dedicated practice to their art. I never thought I could ever aspire to those lofty heights of a black belt so I set goals. As an 8th kyu I set my goal of 5th kyu – about a year away. The next goal was 3rd kyu for another year or so of training. At brown belt, I suddenly realised that a black belt was within reach which then became my next goal. At shodan my goals were several folds – 3rd dan (sandan) for karate but also the study of a new martial art namely Ju Jitsu. And so the cycle of goals went on.

Students need to set their goals realistically. A black belt one year after starting training is not a realistic type of goal (if it is in the club you are at, then you should consider changing!) but it is a goal that anyone can reach. A black belt is just a white belt that never quits.

Interview with Jonathan Bannister of Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo

1. Who is the dojo’s founder and what prompted him/her to build the school? Is there any rich history behind its making?

Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo, Place of the Budding Flowers, is an independent martial and cultural arts school located in Edmonds, WA in the United States. We offer extensive training in Aikido, Aiki-Weapons, and Iaido. Additional coursework is available in Ki Meditation and Breathing disciplines, Kiatsu-Ryoho Massage, Shodo brush calligraphy, Ikebana flower arranging, and Bonsai tree potting.

The dojo has more than 50 black belt graduates and is a founding member of the Pacific Northwest Budo Association, a federal nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering appreciation for Japanese martial arts and traditional culture through the administration of grants and scholarships to artists and educational organizations.

Our chief instructor, Jonathan Bannister Sensei, is a master Aikido instructor with 30 years experience. He is the current president of the Pacific Northwest Budo Association, and is ranked 4th-degree black belt in All Japan Kendo Federation (ZNKR) Iaido. An avid horseman during his childhood, he is a dedicated scholar of western and Asian philosophies and art. In high school and college (he earned a BFA in Fine and Applied Art from the Rochester Institute of Technology in 1987) he was introduced to Zen and Shingon Buddhism. He began Aikido training in 1979 with Hiroshi Ikeda Sensei of the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba. Joining Kokikai-Ryu Aikido in 1982, he soon became a senior instructor under that organization?s founder and president, Maruyama Shuji. Devoted to the study of Aikido basics and Aiki-weapons practice, Bannister Sensei began training in Iaido in1982, later adding Shodo, Ikebana, Bonsai, and Kyudo to his personal practice.

From 1994-2006 Bannister Sensei served as Northwest U.S. Regional Coordinator for Kokikai Aikido International, founding a regional headquarter dojo in Seattle, WA and overseeing branch programs throughout Washington, California, and British Columbia (Canada). In 1999, he was appointed U.S. representative of Tsubomi Seishin Kan Iaido Kai of Tokyo, Japan. He is a bronze medal winner of the Hachioji Iaido Taikai (Tokyo 2007), and 1st place winner of the Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation Iaido Taikai (Bellevue, WA 2008).

In 2006, after 30 years of daily effort to pierce the heart of Budo, Bannister Sensei experienced a tremendous epiphany in his practice: new levels of calmness and relaxation enabled him to throw even the strongest attackers. Bannister Sensei founded Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo to give expression to a new and unique method of training and to share profound insights into the nature of conflict and the essence of humanity.

With full support from his teachers in Japan, Bannister Sensei established a broad and deep curriculum – coordinating the study of Ki Development, Aikido, Aiki-Weapons and Iaido in a comprehensive program designed to provide students with all the tools necessary to achieve self-mastery through Budo.

Bannister maintains a daily training regimen of personal study in Ki Development, Aiki-Weapons, and Iaido. In addition, he leads classes at the Tsubomi Dojo, oversees branch programs, and is active in providing volunteer programs to schools, businesses, and community groups. A man on a mission, Bannister Sensei wants the world to experience the value of self-discipline, self-mastery, and the active means for peaceful reconciliation between people and nations as modeled by Budo martial arts.

He maintains strong friendships with martial arts instructors and organizations throughout the United States, Canada, and Japan, and is active in the Japan- America Society and the Japanese Culture and Community Center of Western Washington.

“The pursuit of technique alone is in itself a technical dead end. True Budo martial arts should express a spirit of loving protection for all beings.
Tsubomi Dojo offers a new paradigm in conflict resolution, one in which personal empowerment need never come at another?s expense.

We wholly repudiate the notion that violence is ever a legitimate means to resolve conflict. First master yourself, then express your highest ideals by working to save others from the self-destructive consequences of aggression.”
Jonathan Bannister Sensei, Kaicho, Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo

Mon (crest) of the Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo. A lotus flower surrounds the kanji character for Ki, translated as internal spiritual power. Our name, Tsubomi Seishin Kan, means “Place of the Budding Flowers.” Our students are like flower buds, on the cusp of fully realizing their
potential.

The moniker was created by 20-time Kendo champion akakura Kyoshi from characters in his own name, and given to Yoshimoto Trent Sensei (Kendo Nannadan Kyoshi, Iaido Nannadan Renshi) when the latter founded his dojo in Tokyo. In 2006 ? in consultation with the Nakakura family ? Trent Sensei transmitted the name to us along with a beautiful kanban (wooden signboard) that hangs in our headquarters dojo.

Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo Basic Principles for Life

Create a Calm Center
Be Comfortably Relaxed
Practice Dependable Posture
Seek the Simplest Solution
Smile and Be Natural

2. What forms of Japanese martial arts do you teach in your school? Can you please share with us the history behind them?

Aikido: A Gentle Art of Defense
In old Japan, travel was very difficult, so clans lived in villages where everyone was related to everyone else. Resort to weapons and violence to resolve conflicts was very undesirable: doing so caused blood-feuds within families. A need arose for a kind of technique that would minimize bloodshed, and restore harmony between enemies.

Aikido, the most modern martial art of Japan, was developed by Morihei Ueshiba in 1927 to give modern expression to a profound philosophy of non-violence. His new art represented a radical departure from the killing arts of old, as he believed that the deepest level of martial arts should express a spirit of loving protection for all beings.

Ueshiba redesigned older grappling techniques, developing an entirely new art that compromises an opponent?s posture and balance without causing injury. His fondest wish that this art be used to create bridges of friendship between all peoples and all nations. Aikido was recognizes our common humanity, and breaks down simplistic barriers that alienate one person – or one nation – from another.

Aikido practice begins with the careful examinations of the simple movements at the core of self-defense techniques. By testing one another in cooperative practice of exercises and techniques, we develop mind-body coordination and a calm self-confidence born of real martial arts ability. Emphasizing natural rhythm and relaxation to harness our full potential, Aikido techniques rely on dependable posture, redirection, and elegant timing to harmlessly render opponents incapable of further attacks.

Physical strength is not needed in Aikido training, and the practice is suited to all people regardless of size, age, or gender. Practices are gently aerobic, gradually ratcheting up to our ultimate self- defense goal: effective, non-violent response to simultaneous, multiple attackers. Aikido?s tools for self-mastery polish the mind, tune the body, and offer a new paradigm for personal and social harmony so needed in modern times.

Iaido: Japanese Swordsmanship

Release your inner Samurai! Modern Iaido sword arts combine non-combative forms practice with rigorous physical and intellectual discipline. The extraordinary technical requirements of this Japanese Swords art foster calmness, self-discipline, and profound insights into the nature of violent conflict. Iaido traces its roots back to the 1600?s when quick- draw swordsmanship was truly a matter of life and death.

Today the art’s beautiful movements are turned towards the larger purpose of character transformation and the creation of better world citizens. Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo enjoys the distinction of being the only authorized branch of a Japanese dojo outside of Japan. Affiliated with the Tsubomi Seishin Kan Iaido Kai of Tokyo, Japan, we make group trips there each September to participate in special training, rank promotion examinations, and competitions.

Iaido techniques are generally practiced solo, and the modern art comprises a non- combative martial discipline. Each waza consists minimally of four main components: the defining movement nukitsuke combines drawing and cutting in one smooth motion, while kiriotoshi is a final overhead cutting action. Zanshin, or continuous mind, is practiced through the technique?s conclusion.

Consisting of chiburi, a blood-shaking motion, and noto, or re-sheathing, the entire performance is intent on cultivating ki-ken- tai-ichi: spirit, sword, and body becoming one. When Iai is performed correctly, the practitioners complete character is revealed as raw material to be polished in the cultivation of our humanity. Nakakura Sensei brushed a piece of calligraphy that hangs in our dojo that reads Ken-Shin-Ichi-Jyo, Sword and Heart are One. This correctly and beautifully expresses our goal.

Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo
Basic Principles for Swordsmanship

Correct Footwork
Correct Grip
Correct Sword Motion
Correct Blade Angle
Correct Distance

Aiki-Ken / Aiki-Jo: Principles of Peace Applied to Sword and Staff
Every member of Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo is invited and encouraged to learn the powerful and beautiful forms of
Aikido’s weapons practices. Each rank is associated with a particular sword or staff kata that serves to reinforce the lessons provided by the student’s other technique studies. Ultimately, the realization dawns that the real enemy is not the attacker, but the myriad forms of violence lurking in our hearts. Only by diligent training can we overcome our aggressive instincts and discover the heart of Aikido, “The Art of Peace.”

Ki Development
All Tsubomi programs include Ki Meditation & Breathing and Ki Development Exercises in order to help students make their strongest natural state a dependable experience. When the mind and body are correctly unified tremendous power results which can be applied to any
challenge, whether it be a self-defense situation or simply meeting adversity in daily life. We also provide individual instruction in a rare art called Kiatsu Ryoho. Created by martial arts genius Koichi Tohei, this is a kind of Ki massage that aids the healing of soft tissue injury. Tsubomi Seishin Kan students are encouraged to study the arts of peace in addition to the arts of war!

A close observation of Nature is essential to
realizing our human potential and our place in the world.
Jonathan Bannister Sensei, Kaicho, Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo

Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo members are invited to discover other samurai arts that are important aspects of Bannister Sensei?s Budo practice. In fact, he ascribes his success in the martial arts to lessons discovered through appreciating rhythms in Nature. This “teacher’s teacher” regularly shares the essence of the arts with school children, community groups, and businesses, and is eager to show others how a close connection with the natural world leads us to discovery of our own potential for strength coupled with compassion.

3. What are the principles and concepts you uphold and try to instill in your students?

Banister Sensei often says that he has no special talent for martial arts beyond the fact that he enjoys self-discipline. By trying hard for a long time he has developed a high degree of skill, but he wants his students that real martial arts ability is freely available to anyone who will put in the effort to practice.

“There really are no secrets,” he says. “We show you everything right up front and invite you to try. If you like it, stay a long time and become strong like us!” This is the first lesson for new members of the Tsubomi Dojo: Bannister says “If I can, so can you.” He encourages students to commit to doing, rather than merely trying. Day by day, step by step, practice will always make us better.

Later lessons become more profound. Bannister Sensei, despite being at times quite ferocious, is in fact an avid pacifist. But his genuine desire for peace in the world is coupled with a practical, martial arts sensibility. ?It is both a privilege and an obligation of the strong to be kind.? He teaches how to develop extraordinary self-control, applies it to supremely effective technique, and finally ties all that ability to a profound philosophy of non-violence. Real courage, real integrity, requires Budo-ka to develop the utmost ability and then refrain from resorting to violence.

“Violence is inherently self- destructive, and an illegitimate means to resolve conflict,” Bannister says. “I want to make my students so strong that they have the ability to establish leadership in even the most combative situations. Then they can begin to work towards the creation mutually- beneficial solutions. It?s never easy, but I like a good challenge!”

The Gojo
Five Virtues of the Samurai
Jin – Benevolence
Gi – Righteousness
Rei – Propriety
Chi – Wisdom
Shin – Faithfulness

I want our students to reflect deeply on these ideals, and form an image of themselves as heroes. Five pleats in the front of the hakama represent these virtues; I think about them every day while dressing for practice. Real practice is like surfing: we ride the wave, fall off, get up again. I am not content to simply admire others? achievements from a distance. I want to become that which I most admire. This motivates my practice, and I want our students to feel the same fire in their bellies. Jonathan Bannister Sensei, Kaicho, Tsubomi Seishin Kan Dojo

4. Why do you think it is important for people to learn martial arts?

What do people think about when they think of Japan? Anime, electronics, pretty decent cars, sushi . . . But we feel that the single most important and influential export of Japan is not its excellent consumer products, but rather the social and civic movement of Budo that is currently sweeping the globe.

The modern martial arts of Japan advocate a profound philosophy embracing human rights and offer a much-needed, new paradigm of conflict resolution uniquely deserving of our attention. In contrast to the martial arts seen in books and movies, modern Budo are dedicated to principles of character development and non-violence.

Thanks to the Japanese government, numerous international arts & cultural organizations, and the efforts of countless individual artists and instructors world-wide, Budo martial arts are now practiced by millions and taught in virtually every nation on Earth. The world can learn much of value from Budo, and it begins with interested individuals dedicating themselves to exploration in this fertile field.

5. What difficulties and obstacles have you encountered so far with regards to teaching martial arts and how did you overcome them?

Many years ago a martial arts teacher was asked this question and replied ?teaching people to tie their belts correctly!? But seriously, I?ve been actively teaching for 26 years and have pretty much encountered every difficulty imaginable. The easy stuff can be dealt with through further education, like the business of running a martial arts school.

Martial artists are qualified in their arts, but not necessarily in business. It took a long time before I figured out what worked for me. I found it difficult, for instance, to strike a balance between a professional need for income, and my desire to maintain the demanding standards of our arts. I have made a distinction between my personal practice -  in which I invite others to participate – and my expectations of students whose lives are complicated by competing demands from family and work. It’s important to keep our priorities straight: first family, then work, then dojo. I’m pretty lucky, since all three are combined in my life.

Another interesting aspect of my teaching career is how my body has held up – or not – over 40 years of intense training. I have had many injuries resulting from incorrect training, and have found physical limitations very informative as I develop a more logical and natural training system for our dojo. Some years ago I realized that long-term success in Budo required a new paradigm for practice, one based on intelligence, refined timing, and rhythmical movement suited to the human body.

6. What advice and/or insights can you share with our readers who want to pursue their interest in the Japanese form of martial arts?

Good question! I can offer four pieces of advice:

First, find a good teacher. Everyone must belong to someone, especially in the first 20 years. Judge a teacher not only by his technique, but also by his character, and the quality of the training experience. Observe the community: do the students and teachers treat each other with the respect and care every human being deserves ? Follow your gut: if it feels off to you, don?t hesitate. Politely move on and keep looking. Remember that some of the best teachers are not especially advanced, but they have a clear idea of where they are going, and are sincerely willing to help you. Treat your teacher with courtesy and respect, and expect the same in return.

Second, once you’ve decided on a particular teacher or school, commit to a sincere trial period of doing exactly what the teacher recommends. This means six to twelve months of putting your ego on the back burner. Be patient and diligent. At the conclusion of the trial period, reflect on your progress and direction, and ask if this method is taking you towards your personal vision of a great human being. Don?t be afraid to discuss this with your teachers. They have a vested interest in your success, and if they’re good, they’ll be willing and able to clarify what road will be of greatest help to you.

Third, and most importantly, be yourself and trust yourself. You are an important person, with hopes and dreams and aspirations that are just as valid as the next person. The goal of the martial arts should be to help each person realize their full potential. This does not require you to change your religion, or your race, or turn you into something you?re not and may never be. You do not have to become ’samurai’ or ‘go native.’ Appreciate your own culture in all its strengths and weaknesses, borrow what works and leave what doesn’t, and discover all that self-mastery can be for you and for your society.

Fourth, don’t quit! I don’t mean to say that you should perpetually stick to one school, one style, or one teacher. What I mean is that the road to self-mastery is long and challenging, but the rewards are fantastic for those who keep trying. Be diligent and patient, and walk the path daily. Ultimately, the result is up to you. A great teacher can get you pointed in the right direction, but you have to walk. Some day this may mean walking in a direction different from your teacher, but that’s actually desirable if you are going to fulfill your destiny as a unique individual and master martial artist.

7. Can you give a short biography of your instructor(s)?

Aikido
Maruyama Shuji, Shihan Kokikai-Ryu Aikido. Student of Kiochi Tohei Sensei who eventually became deshi to Ueshiba Morihei Sensei, the founder of Aikido.

Iaido
Eura Kazunori, Iaido Hachidan Hanshi, All Japan Kendo Federation, Tokyo-To. Shihan of the Tachikawa Iaido Kai.

Yoshimoto Trent, Kendo Nannadan Kyoshi, Iaido Nannadan Renshi, All Japan Kendo
Federation, Tokyo-To. Kaicho of the Tsubomi Seishin Kan Iaido Kai, Tokyo, Japan.

Interview with Nicklaus Suino of Japanese Martial Arts Center

1. Who is the dojo’s founder and what prompted him/her to build the school? Is there any rich history behind its making?
The Japanese Martial Arts Center was founded by Nicklaus Suino Sensei. He sought to create a dojo in which the best aspects of budo could be found, such as excellence in technique, a serious but joyful atmosphere in practice, and character development through long-term, concentrated training.

2. What forms of Japanese martial arts do you teach in your school? Can you please share with us the history behind them?

We teach Eishin-Ryu Iaido, Judo, and Nihon Jujutsu. Eishin-Ryu Iaido comes to us through the late Yamaguchi Katsuo, Meijin 10th Dan, who traced his lineage back to Oe Masamichi, 17th Generation Headmaster. Our Judo and Nihon Jujutsu come from Sato Shizuya, Chief Director of Kokusai Budoin, who studied with Mifune Kyuzo and Ito Kazuo at the Kodokan both before and after World War II.

The Japanese Martial Arts Center was founded by Nicklaus Suino Sensei. He sought to create a dojo in which the best aspects of budo could be found, such as excellence in technique, a serious but joyful atmosphere in practice, and character development through long-term, concentrated training.

3. What are the principles and concepts that you uphold and try to instill in your students?

Understanding of technical principles, constant striving to improve, and a willingness to work with others to help them improve.

4. Why do you think it is important for people to learn martial arts?

Martial arts provide an environment where excellence and cooperation are encouraged. In many areas of life, politics, money, and social class make success difficult, but inside a good traditional dojo, one can work to better oneself, knowing that improvement is possible.

5. What difficulties and obstacles have you encountered so far with regards to teaching martial arts and how did you overcome them?

There are challenging students and difficulties in operating a dojo, but the main obstacles as an instructor are keeping one’s enthusiasm and being open minded to improvement. We have found that when our instructors are able to learn new techniques and to meet with even more advanced martial artists, they continue to learn and remain enthusiastic.

6. What advice and/or insights can you share with our readers who want to pursue their interest in the Japanese form of martial arts?

Read everything you can get your hands on. Search far and wide for the best instructor in your area. Commit yourself fully to your chosen art form. Practice nearly every day. Never stop training.

7. Can you give a short biography of your instructor(s)?

Born in 1960, Suino-Sensei began training in judo at the Ann Arbor YMCA in 1968. Beginning in 1979, he studied karate, aikido, and kung-fu at the Asian Martial Arts Studio, an Ann Arbor dojo where he was a member of the instructor’s training program and taught for a total of 10 years.

After earning his BA and MFA at the University of Michigan, Suino lived in Yokohama, Japan, between 1988 and 1992, where he studied judo, jujutsu (jujitsu), iaido (swordsmanship), and kyudo (archery). He studied iaido at the home dojo of the late Yamaguchi-Katsuo, one of the greatest of the WWII generation swordsmen. In 1989, he was appointed secretary to the Foreign Department of the International Martial Arts Federation, Tokyo HQ. He was four-time All-Tokyo forms champion in iaido at his rank level between 1989 and 1992, and
represented the Kanto region in the All-Japan tournament in Kyoto in 1992. He continues to visit Japan regularly, visiting and training with some of the world’s most respected instructors of aikido, iaido, judo, jujitsu, karate, and koryu bujutsu.

He is widely published in the martial arts, having sold over 50,000 copies of his books, including The Art of Japanese Swordsmanship, Practice Drills for Japanese Swordsmanship, Arts of Strength, Arts of Serenity, and its revised version, Budo Mind and Body, and Strategy in Japanese Swordsmanship. He is one of three primary directors of the Shudokan Martial Arts Association and a Michigan Regional Director for the US
branch of the International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF-Americas). He was director of ITAMA Dojo in East Lansing, Michigan, from 1993 until 2003. In 2006, he returned to Ann Arbor to open the Japanese Martial Arts Center, a traditional dojo offering classes in Jujutsu (jujitsu), judo, and iaido (art of drawing a samurai swords).

Suino Sensei has been called “one of North America’s foremost martial arts teachers.” His personal mission is to master the most profound aspects of Japanese heritage martial arts and pass them on to his students.

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