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Premier Martial Arts Training in Irvine, CA
Lifeskills Martial Arts has been the premier Bujinkan Ninjutsu dojo in Southern California for over two decades. Our mission is to provide a realistic and comprehensive study of self-defense rooted in 2,800 years of Japanese tradition while adapting to modern needs. We offer training for all ages and abilities, from children as young as five to specialized programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Our curriculum integrates physical techniques, psychological preparedness, and emotional resilience, ensuring students develop holistic self-defense capabilities. With a team of instructors boasting decades of experience, including certifications in over ten martial arts disciplines, we emphasize inclusivity and accessibility.

Our unique approach combines ancient samurai traditions with contemporary high-stress scenario training, empowering students to protect themselves and others in real-world situations. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive community where every individual can thrive, regardless of physical or cognitive challenges. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition through international media features and a reputation as a leader in comprehensive martial arts education.
Services
Bujinkan Ninjutsu Self-Defense Training Weaponry Classes Kids/Teens Programs Personal Protection Adaptive Martial Arts Instructor Certification Group/Private Lessons Special Needs Classes High-Stress Scenario
Highlights and features
  • Certified instructors with minimum 22 years Bujinkan Ninjutsu experience
  • Specialized programs for individuals with disabilities since 2007
  • Combines 2,800-year-old Japanese tradition with modern safety techniques
  • Proven track record serving Irvine community for over 23 years
  • Instructors hold black belts in 10+ martial arts disciplines
What people say
World-class instructors Adaptive for all abilities Realistic self-defense training Supportive community Expertise in martial arts
Services
Bujinkan Ninjutsu
Master authentic Japanese combat techniques from nine ancient schools. Our curriculum includes striking, joint locks, weapon disarms, and ground control methods developed over 2,800 years. Students learn to defend against multiple attackers using both armed and unarmed techniques while developing mental discipline and situational awareness.
Self-Defense Training
Develop practical skills for real-world protection scenarios. Our training emphasizes psychological preparedness, threat assessment, and rapid response techniques against armed assailants. Students practice in high-stress environments to build muscle memory and decision-making capabilities under pressure.
Adaptive Martial Arts
Inclusive training designed for individuals with physical and cognitive challenges. Our instructors modify techniques for wheelchair users, visually/hearing impaired students, and those with developmental conditions. Programs focus on building confidence, mobility, and self-protection skills tailored to each participant's abilities.
Kids/Teens Programs
Age-specific classes that build character, discipline, and physical fitness. Children learn situational awareness, conflict resolution, and traditional martial arts techniques. Our curriculum incorporates leadership training and safety principles through structured lessons and interactive drills.
Instructor Certification
Advanced program for martial artists seeking teaching credentials. Participants undergo rigorous technical training and pedagogical instruction. Certification requires demonstrating mastery of traditional techniques, teaching methodology, and real-world application scenarios under senior instructors.
People
Chuck Cory
Head Instructor
45+ years martial arts experience with black belts in 10 disciplines. Featured on History Channel for expertise in high-stress scenario training. Develops adaptive techniques for special needs students while maintaining traditional Bujinkan principles.
Cathy Lewis
Instructor
30+ years Bujinkan practitioner with annual training in Japan. Specializes in women's self-protection and child safety programs. Holds National Security Alliance certification and integrates mental awareness into physical defense training.
Michael Roberts
Instructor
20+ years martial arts experience with background in law enforcement and special education. Combines cyber security expertise with physical protection techniques. Holds Masters in Oriental Medicine and practical experience working with disabled children.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Bujinkan Budo encompassing nine traditional Japanese schools including six samurai systems and three ninjutsu lineages.
Do you offer classes for children?
Yes, we provide age-specific programs starting at age 5 with specialized curricula for Little Dragons (5-11), Juniors/Teens, and adults.
Are classes available for individuals with disabilities?
We've offered adaptive martial arts since 2007 for blind, deaf, wheelchair users, and those with developmental conditions through customized instruction methods.
What self-defense techniques are emphasized?
Our training focuses on real-world scenarios including multiple attackers, weapon disarms, and high-stress situation management using traditional Japanese techniques.
How experienced are your instructors?
All instructors hold LMA certification with minimum 22 years Bujinkan experience and black belts in multiple martial arts disciplines.
What class schedule options exist?
Group classes run Monday-Wednesday 4-8pm. Private lessons available by arrangement. Special programs offered on weekends with advance notice.
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