Business Details
Your Trusted Martial Arts Dojo in Mesa, AZ
Established as a traditional martial arts dojo, we specialize in Jiyushin-ryu Aikibudo and Shinto Muso-ryu Jodo, emphasizing the Mind-Body-Spirit connection through rigorous training and modern educational methods. Our approach prioritizes mastery of formal techniques, immersive drills, and the philosophical principles of seiryoku zenyo (best use of energy) and jita kyoei (mutual welfare). We foster a disciplined yet joyful environment where students develop self-defense skills alongside personal growth attributes like discipline, self-confidence, and stress management.Our curriculum integrates classical Japanese martial arts with practical applications for real-life scenarios, rejecting commercialization and competition in favor of holistic development. With instructors trained under renowned martial artists, we offer structured programs for all ages and physical abilities, focusing on principles that remain effective regardless of strength or speed. Our community values inclusivity, mutual respect, and the preservation of traditional techniques while adapting teaching methods to contemporary needs.
Services
Jiyushin-ryu Aikibudo
Shinto Muso-ryu Jodo
Self Defense Training
Weapons Techniques
Ground Techniques
Highlights and features
- We specialize in traditional Japanese martial arts with over 40 years of combined instructor experience
- Our curriculum emphasizes practical self-defense applications over competitive sports
- Training develops physical and mental discipline through proven historical techniques
- Instructors trained directly by senior martial arts scholars and practitioners
- Family-oriented environment prioritizing mutual respect and personal growth
Services
Jiyushin-ryu Aikibudo
This martial art combines principles from Judo and Aikido, focusing on biomechanically efficient techniques that redirect attacks through throws and joint locks. Training emphasizes posture disruption, safe falling methods, and principle-based applications adaptable to all body types. Students progress through structured kata and randori practice to develop practical self-defense capabilities.
Shinto Muso-ryu Jodo
A 400-year-old Japanese staff-fighting system using a 50-inch wooden jo. Curriculum includes 64 formal techniques against sword attacks, incorporating elements of spear and sword fighting. Training develops spatial awareness, precise timing, and effective weapon handling through systematic practice of traditional forms and partner drills.
Self Defense Training
Real-world self-defense instruction focuses on countering common attacks like chokes, punches, and grabs. Students learn to apply Aiki principles for de-escalation and escape while developing situational awareness. Techniques emphasize efficiency over strength, making them effective for diverse physical abilities and age groups.
Weapons Techniques
Comprehensive weapons training includes Aiki Ken (sword), Aiki Jo (staff), and Tanto (knife) techniques. Instruction covers proper handling, target identification, and movement principles that enhance understanding of distance and timing. These practices complement empty-hand techniques while preserving traditional Japanese martial arts heritage.
Ground Techniques
Ground fighting methods derived from Kodokan Judo principles teach effective control and escapes when engagements go to the floor. Training incorporates Aiki principles to maintain composure and technical precision in close-quarters scenarios, preparing students for unpredictable real-world confrontations.
People
C. E. Clark
Founder and Chief Instructor
8th dan Jiyushinkai Shihan with over 60 years of martial arts experience. Trained under renowned instructors in Japan, France, and the US. Founded Jiyushinkai in 1984 after military service and healthcare career. Author and respected budo teacher with decades of teaching experience.
Charlie James
Instructor
4th dan Jiyushinkai with 25+ years of Aikibudo experience. Trained under C. E. Clark and Phil Relnick. Specializes in Shinto Muso-ryu jo techniques. Certified instructor with extensive knowledge of traditional Japanese martial arts principles and applications.
Carl Bilodeau
Instructor
4th dan Jiyushinkai with 25+ years of experience. Studied directly under C. E. Clark in Arizona. Combines martial arts expertise with insights from peers and Stan Conner. Certified instructor specializing in traditional technique preservation and practical application.
Michael Hacker
Instructor
4th dan Jiyushinkai with diverse martial arts background including Tae Kwon Do and Aikido. Trained in Japan under notable instructors. Fluent in Japanese and author of martial arts terminology resources. Brings international perspective to teaching traditional techniques.
Nadereh Nabai
Instructor
4th dan Jiyushinkai with 15+ years of experience. Began training to support daughter's interest, later becoming dedicated practitioner. Holds Shinto Muso-ryu jo certification. Demonstrates commitment to traditional martial arts through ongoing study and teaching.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Jiyushin-ryu Aikibudo (combining Judo and Aikido principles) and Shinto Muso-ryu Jodo (traditional Japanese staff fighting).
Are competitions part of your training?
No, we focus exclusively on traditional practice methods and real-world application rather than tournament competition.
What age groups can train at your dojo?
Our programs accommodate students from age 5 to adults, with techniques adaptable to various physical capabilities.
Do you offer weapons training?
Yes, we teach traditional Japanese weapons including sword, staff, and knife techniques as part of our curriculum.
What are your training philosophy differences?
We emphasize principle-based learning over rigid forms, focusing on practical application while maintaining traditional Japanese martial arts integrity.
How do you approach self-defense instruction?
Our self-defense training prioritizes de-escalation, efficient technique application, and situational awareness using Aiki principles rather than brute strength.
