Our dojo is one of the longest running Ninjutsu clubs in Nottingham. We train in the Bujinkan system of Martial arts which comprises of six Samurai and 3 Ninja schools but with an emphasis on self defence, awareness and common sense as well as the more traditional aspects of training.
Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu covers a wide variety of disciplines including general self defence, traditional weapons training, forms (kata) and so on. With a traceable history going back over 900 years, the schools are some of only a small number that haven't been turned into a sports style training system. This means there are no competitions or competition style rules to our training.
In our classes, there is an emphasis on using natural body movement to apply locks, move out of danger, throw and grapple. With this leading into weapons training as the student progresses.
The dojo is led by Simon Proctor who has been training in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu (Ninjutsu) since 1991. Firstly, in the BBD and then in the mainstream Bujinkan, Simon has trained and travelled all over the country and in Japan.
As a prospective new member you'll be introduced to the rest of the class, have a quick chat with the senior students in case you have any questions and to ensure you're ok to train. Then you'll take part in a warm up prior to the class start.
If you're interested in coming along, just bring an old t-shirt, tracksuit bottoms and a pair of clean socks to wear. There's no upfront cost in starting other than the class fee (which is kept as low as possible).
Outfits, equipment and membership to Japan are available once you are sure you want to become a regular member. Something you should allow 6-8 weeks for so you can settle in and find your feet.
Simon has been teaching self defence both as an assistant and full instructor for over a decade and has been running his own class in and around Nottingham for seven years. Now situated at the Bushido Academy in the city centre, training incorporates the modern aspects of self defence as well as the traditional aspects of this highly effective martial art.
In his last trip, Simon was awarded Godan (5th dan black belt) and is now a recognised Shidoshi with Honbu (headquarters dojo in Japan). In his own words:
I love training and I find classes are the ideal way to challenge myself and bring myself out of the comfort zone so many other "instructors" find themselves in. People are so diverse with their backgrounds, body development (and so on) and the opportunity to pass on this way of life to my students is something I greatly enjoy. I also find that I keep learning and it re-inforces that I too am still just a student. I've got lots more to learn and I travel to seminars whenever I can. I encourage all my students to do the same.
If this sounds interesting, take a look at the class schedule and see if you can make a class. If so come along!