Scottsdale, Arizona Martial Arts

Derived from Japanese, it is also spelled Ju Jutsu or Ju Jitsu. Ju means 'gentle', 'soft' or 'flexible' and Jutsu means 'skill' or 'art.' Hence Jiu Jitsu is the flexible art. This unarmed martial art either originated in or found its way to Japan over 2,500 years ago. It focusses on striking vital points, locking joints and throwing opponents.

The vital points that are targeted in many martial arts are the same pressure points that are used in healing techniques such as acupuncture. The ability to strike pressure points accurately can be lethal, so this knowledge is taught gradually as the student progresses in skill and control.

In addition to striking pressure points, our study of the martial arts - and Jiu Jitsu in particular - will teach you wrist locks, arm bars, take downs, throws, mat holds and choke holds. From dealing with intimidation, to handling crowd control, to protecting yourself in a life-threatening situation, this martial arts system will give you the tools you need to face life with increased confidence.

1. Shorei-Kenpo Karate
2. Shorinji-Ryu Jiu Jitsu
3. Chulukua-Ryu
4. Aikido
5. Judo
6. American Kenpo Karate
7. Shorin-Ryu Karate
8. Juko-Ryu Jiu Jitsu
9. Wing-Chun

Aikido (Aiki=divine harmony, do=way), affectionately referred to as, "the gentle art of getting out of the way," stresses the development of Ki (spelled Chi in Chinese), an important focus in our dojo. In fact, Ueshiba Morihei, the founder of Aikido and one of the greatest martial artists who ever lived, occupies an important space on our dojo's Wall of Honor.

Judo, the gentle way, adds grappling techniques to our martial arts system. Wing-Chun is a style of southern Shaolin Temple boxing. You will find that, in our practice of the martial arts, all nine of these styles blend seamlessly to form a complete whole, forever growing and changing to discover whatever works best.

The fact that the Shaolin Temple, birthplace of Zen Buddhism, occupies such a prominent place in the history of the martial arts illustrates perfectly the inseparable nature of the martial arts and spiritual development. Our Soke demonstrates and teaches the spiritual, mental and emotional warrior attributes as impeccably as he does the physical. For this reason, our martial arts practice gives us not only the ability to defend ourselves physically, but also the more intangible benefits of reduced fear and a more relaxed mind.

The first rule of the martial arts is to avoid physical confrontations. We eventually fear more for our opponents than for ourselves. If you find yourself in a fight, you have already made a mistake. However, in such a case, our Soke's tremendously experienced martial arts instruction becomes a priceless resource. Experience is the greatest teacher, and Soke Reagan uses his knowledge to constantly remind us of the differences between street fighting and tournament sparring, giving us the most effective techniques for each.

A typical class in our dojo begins with stretching and warm-up exercises, often followed by a run through of some basics. Once these initial techniques are completed, the class typically divides into two groups: beginners (white and yellow belts) and more advanced students (orange belts and up).