Karate employs a vast array of techniques including strikes, joint locks, breaks, throws, and sweeps.  Goju Ryu takes a very holistic approach to training, which includes both empty-handed and armed elements.  Goju Ryu will physically condition the body, internally and externally.  By keeping a calm mind practitioners will observe friendship and compassion, while learning to unlock their limitless potential.

Traditional Jujutsu incorporates joint locks, grappling and ground fighting.  One of Japan’s oldest systems of martial arts, Jujutsu dates back over 1200 years; a system of combat used on the battlefields of feudal Japan and later adopted for self-defense.  Using joint manipulation techniques require the practitioner to have a high level of body awareness.  Through a deeper understanding of one’s own body mechanics, practitioners can learn to apply techniques effectively.

Shindo Muso Ryu employs the use of a four-foot wooden staff, and is said to utilize the cutting motions of a sword, the stabbing thrusts of a spear, and the sweeping maneuvers of a naginata (halberd). Training is regularly conducted through the practice of pre-arranged forms (kata), against a swordsman.  As your opponent is supposedly wielding a greater weapon (the sword), jodo practitioners must practice with immense patience, focus, and precision.

The art of the Japanese sword (Kenjutsu) was employed by Samurai during the many warring periods in Japan.  Yoshin Ryu Kenjutsu employs an elegant combination of speed, power, and grace in its techniques.  Using bokken (traditional wooden practice swords, modeled after the Katana), classes are taught in a formal and challenging manner comprising of drills, solo and paired forms.  The classes offer a physically and mentally demanding environment, steeped in the rich culture and history of traditional Japanese martial arts.

An art that revolves around drawing one’s sword from the scabbard and committing a number of precise cuts, Mugai Ryu Iaiheido serves as a school that emphasizes simplicity, grace and technical prowess. Dating back over 300 years, this school of Iaiheido is richly steeped in the philosophies of Zen.  The physical benefits include strength, stamina and dexterity, just to name a few. But most importantly, are the mental faculties that are harnessed and improved through disciplined training, such as increased focus, composure and awareness of one’s surroundings.

This system uses the attackers force and speed against them, by teaching its practitioners to be in harmony with the opponent.  The initial aim is  not to damage the opponent, but to use circular movements to evade, absorb, and deflect the opponent’s attack.  Aikido requires the practitioner to be strong externally, but soft internally in order to effectively execute the techniques.  More aggressive and direct in nature, this style of Aikido is one of the martial arts taught to the Tokyo Police force. 

Below you’ll find some important information about the various arts we offer at Seibukan Martial Arts Canada.  Click on the titles for more information, and the history associated with each of these  traditional arts from all over Japan.