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Training For Adults

We offer classes for both men and women and all skill levels and ability. Our Dojo offers training 4 days a week for adults. We typically accept ages 15 and up for this class, however, on special exception we have accepted younger. This is dependent on maturity level. The majority of our students range from 20's through the 50's, coming from all walks of life.

Adults begin with basic flexibility and Dojo etiquette, as well as, basic martial defensive techniques. Something we hear from many people considering training is being concerned about being fit enough for training. We encourage you to not let this get in the way, as fitness is a journey and not a destination. Now is always the right time. You can view our brochure online, here.

The busy day-to-day is an unfortunate reality for some. Constraints of time and distance can keep us from pursuing things we otherwise would pursue. This is why we also offer training opportunities for those who either live too far from the Dojo to train consistently every week, or whose schedule makes it impossible to attend regularly. While there is no substitute for consistent regular training, we can do our best to bridge the gap. Please contact us for more information about this.

Training For Children

The Bansenshukai Dojo offers our children's program starting around age 8, again depending on maturity level. We offer this class 1 day a week on Saturday, so that it doesn't interfere with school or home responsibilities. For more information on this you can visit the children's training section.

The Genbukan

The Genbukan is truly a top rate international organization. While the teachings it contains are ancient, the organization was created in 1984 by Grandmaster (Soke) Tanemura in order to preserve the heritage of traditional warrior training.

Soke first began his martial arts training at the age of nine. First taught by his uncle and his father, the latter of which was a 17th generation head of a samurai lineage. He has served 15 years in the Tokyo Police Department, leaving to keep alive and teach true Ninpo martial arts. Today, he has instructors in over 25 countries teaching thousands of students. Soke Tanemura has masteries in 23 systems of martial arts, which he teaches to his students at Honbu Dojo in Japan, and international Taikai (seminars).

Benefits Of Training

Students of the Bansenshukai Dojo come from all walks of life, and each has separate motivation and goals for training. While the focus is on martial arts training, there are numerous inherent benefits. Some of these include reducing stress, exercise and flexibility, self realization, self-discipline and more. But what is important if it is to benefit us,
is that it carries over into our every day life.

By improving not just the symptoms but also the core, we gain a sense of control in our lives. In other words, not only relieving stress, but learning to become less stressed in situations that would otherwise cause us to do so. By balancing out our natural energies we become healthier and happier individuals.

Class Structure

All classes begin and end with a brief meditation to help clear the mind before our formal bow in or bow out. In the beginning as well, a traditional Ninpo poem, called Ninniku Seishin, is recited.

Classes at the Bansenshukai start with a warm-up period including stretching (Junbi-undo) and conditioning (Junan-taiso), and follow with practice of fundamentals of our art called Kihon. Kihon consist of a range of basic techniques including tumbling, breakfall practice and basic acrobatics, evasion skills, striking practice, and more.

This is usually followed by practice on techniques determined by each individual's skill level. These techniques (waza) may include basic etiquette, simple defensive skills, joint locking, throws, weapons training, etc. At the end of class we tend to focus on drills that develop responsiveness in a more real-time environment.

Each student sets a tone for their training, depending on what they feel comfortable with, or pushing themselves, what they do not feel comfortable with. That is, a new student is focusing on simple skills and functioning within a traditional martial arts setting, while a more progressed member tends to focus on pushing their skill to the next level.

Rank & Testing

Ranking structure consists of pre-black belt levels (10th Kyu - 1st Kyu), and black belt levels, or Yudansha (1st Dan - 10th Dan). Students begin without a rank and are expected to earn each level by passing a test by at least 80%. As students progress they also have the opportunity to test under Tanemura Soke for traditional levels of ancient school lineages.

What is most important, however, is not the rank but the individual effort.

Instructors


Mark Bramble

Adam Williamson


Jose Benitez

RANK:

  • Ninpo Taijutsu Shodan

  • Gyokko Ryu Tanemura-ha Kirigami

  • Koto Ryu Tanemura-ha Shoden Menkyo

  • Bo-jutsu Shokyu

Jose began formal training in Ninpo in 2006. He is an assistant instructor at the Bansenshukai Dojo.

In July 2008, Jose trained at the Milwaukee Taikai with Grandmaster Shoto Tanemura.

 

David McCauley

RANK:

  • Taijutsu Shodan

  • Gyokko Ryu Tanemura-ha Kirigami

  • Koto Ryu Tanemura-ha Shoden Menkyo

  • Bo-jutsu Shokyu

Dave began training in Ninpo during 2006, and after taking a break to focus on his university studies he returned in late 2007.

He is currently a student of Japanese studies, and is an assistant instructor at the dojo.

In July of 2008, he traveled to the Milwaukee Taikai to train with Grandmaster Shoto Tanemura. 



Joy Bramble

RANK:

  • Taijutsu Ichi-kyu

  • Gyokko Ryu Tanemura-ha Kirigami

  • Koto Ryu Tanemura-ha Kirigami

Joy began training in the martial arts in a rather fortunate but backwards way. In 2007, she traveled with her then Fiance, Mark Bramble to a Taikai in England.

While she was there she was introduced to Grandmaster Shoto Tanemura and was touched by his spirit.

She began training immediately upon returning, and now often trains in over 7 classes a week.

Bringing a unique side to the dojo, Joy brings her experience as a Life Coach and with the Tony Robbins organization.

In addition to being an assistant instructor at the dojo, she also maintains the role of managing the dojo.

 

Copyright - Bansenshukai Dojo 2009