BUJINKAN IPSWICH DOJO is a martial arts club located in Ipswich, New Zealand. The club specialises in training students in the 9 schools of Japanese Budo, focusing on the skills and philosophy of warfare. The club is open to students of all ages, with participants ranging from 16 to 50+ years old, and includes both males and females.
The dojo was created by Hatsumi Masaaki in the early 1970s and is currently led by Masaaki Hatsumi, the Soke (Grand Master) of the Bujinkan Dojo. The club has a rich history, with several of the arts it teaches having long and illustrious backgrounds in Japan that can be traced back over hundreds of years.
Training at BUJINKAN IPSWICH DOJO emphasises flexibility and the use of various techniques for armed and unarmed defence. Students learn strikes, throws, holds, chokes, and joint locks to effectively defend themselves. The training also includes the ability to fall safely on hard surfaces, advanced locks and chokes, and the use of any part of the body for striking.
Classes are held every Wednesday from 19:30 to 21:30 at the Gainsborough Library on Clapgate Lane in Ipswich, Suffolk. The cost is 5 per session, and insurance is required at a rate of 20 for the first year and 15 for subsequent years. The location offers ample parking and is conveniently located near the A14 and 15 minutes from the town centre.
At BUJINKAN IPSWICH DOJO, there is very little formality in training. While a salutation marks the beginning and end of each session, there is no need to address others in a specific way or follow a hierarchical structure. Each class is different, and all students are considered equal regardless of grade. Partners are changed frequently during the class to provide opportunities for students to train with those of varying experience.
The class format consists of a warm-up and stretching to avoid injury and build flexibility. Students are taught how to fall and return safely to a standing position, as well as how to minimise injury when struck or locked. The main body of the session focuses on the techniques taught in Japan during the year and realistic self-defence. This includes defences from strikes, escapes from chokes and holds, advanced locks and strikes, falling safely on hard surfaces, and various other aspects of combat.
While the club primarily focuses on unarmed defence, some elements of ground fighting, the use of weapons, and unarmed defence against armed opponents are occasionally covered. The use of distance and space, dealing with multiple opponents, and principles of ninjutsu and deception are also taught.
Beginners are always welcome at BUJINKAN IPSWICH DOJO, but it is recommended to email the club in advance before attending a session. The club believes in utilising the space between oneself and the opponent and emphasises the importance of distancing in combat. For more information or to get in touch with BUJINKAN IPSWICH DOJO, interested individuals can contact them via email at bujinkanipswichenquiries@gmail. Com.