STEP 1: Learn the Fundamentals
First, you’ll learn the basic steps and mechanics of the technique being practiced with little to zero resistance from your partner. This is about learning how to use proper structure, leverage, and distance, instead of brute strength or size to survive against a bigger, stronger opponent.
STEP 2: Develop the Fundamentals
Next, you’ll develop the technique through various athletic, dynamic drilling methods. This is where you’ll get a sense of timing. Timing is more important than speed. You’ll start to work with gradual levels of pressure and intensity. These drills are designed to challenge you, but in a safe and controlled manner. The idea is progress over time, not sink or swim.
STEP 3: Test the Fundamentals
Then, you’ll test your ability to apply the techniques you’ve learned. The difference here is that there is a larger context in which you must decide the most efficient technique from the options you’ve learned up to this point. This is where you discover your level of competence. And competence is what creates true confidence. Testing is run every few months, so don’t worry about not feeling prepared. You’ll be ready.
STEP 4: Exploration and Adaptation
Fundamentals are of course the most important things to learn. But to extract their greatest value, you must explore and adapt to many different ways of using them. After you’ve practiced the fundamentals, you’ll spend some time exploring what our instructors in Japan have been teaching. Getting the best knowledge from the source!
STEP 5: Become Part of a Community
Our classes are smaller in scale by design, typically no more than about 12 students on a given night. You won’t be just a random face in a crowd of 20 or 30 people. This not only ensures that you’ll get plenty of personal coaching from the instructor, but you’ll also create deeper trust and friendships with your training partners. No arrogant gym-bro culture here. We welcome individuals from all races, creeds, and cultures.