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Ever wondered how understanding a few key Japanese phrases can enhance your martial arts practice? Martial arts are not just about physical strength, technique, or discipline but also about fostering respect, communication, and understanding.  One powerful way to deepen these connections is by incorporating the language of the martial arts origins into your practice. For many martial arts pr...

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Are you interested in practicing iaido in Ann Arbor ?  A little lost when it comes to swords? Iaido, the Japanese martial art of drawing and cutting with a sword, requires precision, focus, and consistent practice. However, even seasoned practitioners can fall into common mistakes that hinder their progress!  Let's explore the five major mistakes often seen in Iaido training and how...

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Want to minimize your risk of injury while practicing martial arts?  Nervous you’ll accidentally hurt yourself during a drill?  Ukemi, the art of falling safely and efficiently, is an essential skill in martial arts like Judo, Aikido, and Jujutsu. Proper ukemi not only prevents injuries but also enhances overall martial arts performance. This guide breaks down the key elements of ...

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Do you love watching characters square off for intense, on-screen fights?  Have you ever watched a choreographed fight and felt that it was almost too clean to be believable?  Martial arts movies often depict gravity-defying kicks and superhuman feats. While undeniably entertaining, this can leave us wondering: how realistic is the action on screen? Ip Man , the Donnie Yen action-fest p...

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Have you ever watched a karate demonstration and been captivated by the focused movements and powerful strikes?  You might be surprised to learn that karate is an excellent choice for adults, regardless of age or fitness level. It goes beyond physical skill, offering a holistic path to self-improvement that benefits your body, mind, and spirit. Here’s what to expect when starting karat...

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Do you find yourself dragging your feet on the way to training sessions? Looking for any excuse to avoid working out?  Martial arts are an incredible journey that offers a unique blend of physical fitness, mental focus, and self-defense skills. But even the most enthusiastic student can experience dips in motivation.  Here are some tips to reignite your passion and stay committed to you...

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Are you feeling nervous about an upcoming competition? Does the idea of being watched while competing make your stomach twist? Competition anxiety is a common challenge faced by many. The pressure of performing well, the fear of failure, and the anticipation of facing skilled opponents can all contribute to anxiety and stress.  However, you can overcome these hurdles and compete at your best...

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Considering martial arts training? Want to study karate in Ann Arbor ? Karate is a disciplined practice that embodies the fusion of mind, body, and spirit.  Let's delve into the intricate world of Karate techniques, encompassing strikes, blocks, stances, and forms. Strikes: Precision and Power Striking techniques are central to the study of karate. Executed with unparalleled precision an...

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Do you hate going to a crowded gym for a workout?  Feel more motivated and driven when working in a group? Karate seamlessly blends fitness and fun. Karate is a martial art that not only sharpens your self-defense skills but offers a dynamic and engaging way to achieve and maintain fitness. The Fusion of Fitness and Martial Arts Karate, originating from Okinawa, Japan, has evolved into a glo...

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Are you looking for ways to get your kids away from screens? Do you want to help your child feel confident and capable? In a world filled with distractions, the importance of developing traits like concentration, confidence, and physical fitness in young minds cannot be overstated.  Beyond the physical techniques, martial arts are a powerful tool for kids and teens, laying the foundation for...

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Are you looking for ways to build genuine confidence?  Sick of being told, “fake it ‘til you make it?” In the quest for self-improvement, the wisdom of Alex Hormozi rings true: " Confidence without evidence is delusion. " Martial arts is a practical avenue for transforming mere confidence into authentic self-assurance.  Here's how practice in the dojo can...

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What are your goals as a martial artist? Want to learn ways to defend yourself? Are you looking to explore a fighting style rich with cultural history?  In martial arts, there is a stark contrast between the classical and modern approaches. These two paradigms diverge in their emphasis on tradition, honor, and practicality. The Essence of Classical Martial Arts Connection Lineage signifies t...

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Are you looking to study self-defense in Ann Arbor ? Do you want to learn how to resolve conflict? Want to be prepared to defend yourself? Everyone runs into conflict at some point. The best way to prevent or resolve it is to be prepared! Martial arts provides skills that can help you work through conflict and defend yourself. Observational Skills - Martial arts requires intense focus and has us ...

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Is your child stuck in their shell? Do you want to see them grow and flourish? Martial arts could be the answer! Martial arts can help your child grow physically and mentally, leading to increased confidence. Self-Improvement Martial arts is primarily an individual sport centered around self-improvement rather than winning or losing. With practice, your child may notice they can punch harder than...

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Looking to improve your martial arts skills? Want to get more invested in the martial arts community? Attending events outside of practice can have multiple benefits! Training camps, challenges, competitions, and classes from visiting instructors can help you: Meet New People and Build Relationships – Everyone can use more friends and role models! At events like The JMAC Crucible, you can m...

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Do you want to have strong kicks and punches? Are you looking for a competitive hobby? Fighting systems that use striking may be right for you! What is Striking?  Striking refers to stand-up fighting moves, like kicks, punches, palm strikes, and using the elbows and knees. Striking fighting techniques have been recorded since ancient Egypt and became popularized for competition in ancient Gr...

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What are your goals as a martial artist? How can you excel beyond being a student? Receiving a black belt isn’t the final goal in martial arts. There’s always room for improvement and growth! There are many different paths a martial artist can take to continue studying and keeping traditional martial arts alive. Here are a few of them: Remain a Student Not every student wants to be a ...

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Are you interested in martial arts? Have you heard the shouts martial artists make during practice? This shouting is called kiai and it is used in multiple martial arts. What is Kiai? Breaking down the word, ki means energy and ai means to harmonize. Put together, kiai means to focus or direct your energy. This energy can be released in a shout or can be silent.   A kiai shout is a quick rel...

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Are you an athlete? Are you looking for new ways to improve your performance? Athletes from nearly all sports can benefit from martial arts training. At JMAC, we offer karate, jujutsu, judo, and iaido, which all utilize physical and mental abilities that can improve your performance in your sport.  What Physical Abilities Does Martial Arts Improve? Training in martial arts can improve the fo...

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Looking for inspiration in the world of martial arts for women?  Want to learn more about women’s contributions to martial arts? Are you a woman interested in martial arts but not sure where to begin? It might surprise you to know that women and martial arts have always gone hand-in-hand. Although the most popular martial artists a typical person may think of might be men, women have b...

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Are you interested in broadening your study of martial arts to include sword arts?  Do you feel drawn to the grace and power of Japanese swordsmanship? Would you like to learn the proper way to use a bokken ? Japanese swordsmanship is an ancient art and discipline heralding back to the samurai of feudal Japan. Over the years, the art of swordsmanship grew into many different styles and schoo...

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Are you interested in ancient combat weapons? The bushi – occupational warriors in feudal Japan - used many weapons while fighting. So why do we see so few weapons in many martial arts dojos? The majority of weapons used in martial arts were used in “old style” martial arts, called koryu bujutsu . These martial arts were meant to be used in battles to protect the entire group ra...

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Do you want to increase your strength?  Are you looking for self-defense training?  Fighting systems that use grappling may be right for you!  What is Grappling? Grappling is a concept in combat sports that consist of grabbing and manipulating the opponent. Grappling moves include takedowns, throws, holds, and sweeps, but no striking moves like punching and kicking. Grappling works...

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Are you a beginner? Considering martial arts training? You’ll learn the basics first, which include stances, punches, and falling correctly. The art of falling in martial arts is called ukemi and there are many types of falls. The Basics When falling, it’s important to prevent a head injury. To prevent injury, keep your chin tucked to your chest and focus on something in front of you,...

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Are you curious about the history of martial arts?  Have you ever wondered why martial artists wear Gis?  Knowing the history allows you to have a deeper connection and understanding of the art you practice.  The Judogi, or Gi, is the first modern martial arts uniform. From concept to industry standard, the Gi has inspired many changes in the martial arts community. Origin Story Th...

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When you think of martial arts, you may imagine a dojo full of men in their 20s-30s. This isn’t the case! There are plenty of women and older people who study martial arts. Preconceived notions like this might inhibit older people from beginning martial arts training.  Here are some reasons you should start! Helps you stay physically fit – Older people can sometimes settle into a...

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Your dojo is more than a place to get a great workout. It’s a safe, respectful place to learn and thrive together – a place where character is developed and strengthened. But that doesn’t come from the uniform or the mat. It comes from the people, and everyone at the dojo plays a part.  Whether you’re young or not so young, new to martial arts, or an instructor, you c...

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Do you want to improve your focus, control, and concentration? Would more structured activities help your attention disorder? Martial arts may be able to help! While many resources for ADHD and other attention disorders may be targeted towards children, martial arts can help adults and children alike! Here are some ways martial arts can help you: Increasing Activity – Exercise not only help...

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Have you noticed some martial arts are physical and powerful, while others seem peaceful and introspective?  How can these differences between martial arts be categorized?  One way is to distinguish between internal and external, or hard and soft styles. The distinction between internal and external comes from how the arts are learned, while the distinction from hard and soft comes from...

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Are you interested in practicing iaido in Ann Arbor?   A little lost when it comes to swords?  In iaido, we use bokken, iaito , and shinken swords. A bokken is a wooden sword meant for beginners, and an iaito is a dull metal practice sword. Shinken translates to “real sword,” and has a sharp edge. At JMAC, we only allow advanced black belts to use sharp blades in group pract...

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Wondering what belt colors mean?  How can you keep improving beyond black belt?  The majority of martial arts use a colored belt system to show your rank. Legend has it that as people trained, their white belts got covered in sweat, blood, and stains, getting darker over time until eventually turning black. These belts weren’t allowed to be washed because it would “wash the ...

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Want to study karate in Ann Arbor?  What can you expect to learn?  Everything you’ll learn in karate can be sorted into three categories: kihon, kata, and kumite.     Kihon Kihon means “basics,” or “fundamentals,” and includes stances, strikes, punches, kicks, and blocks. These are fundamental to your success as a martial artist. By repeating...

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Thinking about starting martial arts in Ann Arbor ? Don’t know what to expect? Starting something new can make you feel uncertain and intimidated. This might be the case for new martial artists. You may feel intimidated by your talented sensei and dojo mates who will know more than you. New martial artists who succeed learn to work through this uncertainty and discomfort to become great at ...

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Are you interested in the history of martial arts? Want to learn more about kata ? Kata means “form” in Japanese. In martial arts, a kata is a set of choreographed movements used for practice. Seisan kata is a type of kata with its own distinct movements and is one of the oldest kata that is still taught today. Its history can be traced back to Okinawan karate in the 18-19th century.&...

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Are you interested in iaido? Don’t think you have the skills? From an outsider’s perspective, iaido might seem scary. People wielding deadly sharp swords all together in one room? Sounds like one accident away from disaster, right? In actuality, iaido is quite safe. You aren’t handed a katana on your first day. You start with a bokken – a wooden sword – to practice t...

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What will you learn in jujitsu from JMAC? How can jujitsu help you? Nihon jujitsu is a modern system of jujitsu (sometimes spelled “jujutsu” or “jiu-jitsu”) that focuses on using power and force to control an opponent. Created by Sato Shizuya after WWII, Nihon jujitsu uses techniques mixed from ancient and present-day martial arts, as well as Japanese self-defense methods....

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Are you looking for a practical form of martial arts? Do you want to learn how to defend yourself? There are many different styles of martial arts, so finding the right one for you is very important. Understanding what you’re looking for in a program can help make your journey more fulfilling. If you're interested in competing, judo might be the best choice. If you want to learn how to ...

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Do you like martial arts and want to learn some beginner moves? Intrigued by judo? Here are 4 simple throws that every beginner should learn: Seoi-nage – A forward throw where you throw the opponent over your arm. Put weight on one leg at the heel, spin forward, letting the other leg come back behind the pivoting leg, then with both hands, pull your opponent over you and onto the ground in ...

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Are you looking for a solid martial arts program for you or your child?  Do you find yourself overwhelmed by the dizzying number of schools out there? Selecting the right karate school is one of the most important steps in your martial arts journey. A good teacher aids your spiritual and physical well-being and promotes self-development, while a bad teacher can cause frustration and could ev...

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Are you looking for a fun, engaging activity for your child? Want something that will strengthen your child physically and mentally? If you answered “yes” to these questions, kids martial arts in Ann Arbor might be right for your child. Martial arts is much more than just fighting! It’s an activity that engages the mind, body, and spirit and aides in self-development. Here&rsquo...

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Do you want to learn self-defense? Interested in jujutsu? Unsure of which type? Despite having a similar name, jujutsu (sometimes spelled jujitsu or jiu-jitsu) and Brazilian jiu-jitsu are two different fighting styles with their own origins, moves, and purposes. Origins Jujutsu ‒ Originating in Japan as one of the first martial arts, jujutsu came from samurai hand-to-hand combat. The idea was t...

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Do you want more control? Are you looking to be more centered? Want challenge your mind? All these needs can be met with one source: iaido. Iaido, or the art of Japanese swordsmanship, can provide you with a unique experience that improves your body, mind and spirit. What is Iaido?  Iaido is the practice of wielding a katana in a controlled, efficient way. The main actions include drawing th...

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All martial arts can help you build strength, balance, and endurance. However, the traditional practice of judo is unique among martial arts because of its emphasis on defense and control as opposed to attacking and conquering. When you begin the judo, you’re starting on a path to better health, confidence, and satisfaction. You’ll learn how to develop physical power re-direct your pa...

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  Have months of pandemic restrictions left you feeling out of shape, inside and out? Are you looking for some way to exercise your body and mind? Do you miss being part of something outside your home, but you’re still taking COVID precautions? Exercising your body and mind outside your home, in a supportive community, while maintaining pandemic precautions, might seem like a lot to as...

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Ready to train with an All Japan Champion?  Do you love karate? Is learning new detail and getting the information straight from the source important to you? Do you want to have a direct connection with an All Japan Champion? JMAC is incredibly lucky to have access to one of the greatest young karateka in Japan. Shimizu Shun-Sensei - 4th dan Shihan in Goju-Ryu Karate through the Nisseikai - ...

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Staying healthy is on everybody's mind these days. One of the best things you can do to stay healthy overall is exercise, but pandemic regulations make it difficult to find a gym or class you’re comfortable with that also provides a great workout. Maybe you’ve wondered: Where can I find a great fitness program I can do from home? Could martial arts classes be right for me? Or, How...

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Martial arts teaches us patience and respect, which are needed more than ever as the COVID pandemic continues. In respect for the latest COVID regulations and more importantly, the health of our members, JMAC has temporarily cancelled on-site group classes. That doesn’t mean we’re giving up! We’re committed to giving you great martial arts practice. The physical and mental healt...

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Are you ready to get back to the gym now that the stay-at-home orders have been eased? Are you looking for a complete workout that builds strength and endurance? It is tough to find time for fitness between work, kids, and household chores! Have you considered a bootcamp workout? Not sure if it’s right for you? Given the right information, the right instructor, and a free class to boot (see...

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Who would have thought a virus could turn into such a controversial and politicized issue?  Even though the Governor's executive orders have been ruled unconstitutional, we are still bound by regulations and respect for the health and safety of others. We want to get back to business as normal, but for now we are still limited by: Washtenaw County advisory rulings Michigan Department of ...

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As we adjust to our governor’s Safe Start plan for gyms to safely re-open and sports to resume, we hear a lot of questions about the safety of resuming contact sports. Questions like: What do the Safe Start orders mean for my workout? How are gyms and dojos keeping members safe? And especially,  How do you practice martial arts while maintaining social distance? Karate may appear to be...

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It’s been a long few months and we’ve all been through a lot. With all the uncertainty, it’s important to check in on the people you love – this includes checking in on yourself!  Self-care isn’t a luxury when times are tough. One of the best ways you can improve yourself and get a sense of relief and control is through martial arts. Participating in self-d...

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From Jackie Chan to Steven Seagal, American pop culture is packed with masculine representations of martial arts. Western movies portray martial arts primarily as one-on-one combat, usually between two men. In truth, martial arts are practiced around the world by people of virtually every age and gender.  You know and we know that it’s about more than combat: it’s about focus, di...

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It’s a little strange to think that the COVID-19 lockdown began way back in March. As things gradually get back to normal, many of us are still spending a lot of time indoors. In addition to its many health benefits, exercise is also great for your mental health. Everyone knows this, but it’s easy to let this slip! Keep reading for some great information on staying motivated and healt...

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We’ve seen some big changes at JMAC recently. In response to the emergency shutdown, and out of concern for the wellbeing of our students, JMAC has moved most of its classes online, both martial arts lessons and what we think is the best bootcamp exercise in Ann Arbor—the JMAC 18—now available at home! ...

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COVID-19 is disrupting all of our lives, but it’s also a time to change and adapt. Leading the way among many local gyms and martial arts facilities, JMAC has begun offering classes online, including what we think is the best bootcamp workout in Ann Arbor! ...

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Considering karate for your first martial art … or next martial art? Is there a dojo that offers karate in Ann Arbor that teaches a style you might like? A great way to get started is to learn about the different styles of karate! ...

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Once we rid ourselves of traditional thinking we can get on with creating the future. — James Bertrand   ...

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In 1988, armed with a master's degree in English and a few dollars, Nicklaus Suino set out for Tokyo. After a 14-hour flight, a 2-hour train ride, and a 20-minute ride in a friend’s Nissan, he arrived in time for dinner, a beer, and a long night’s sleep! ...

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Ever notice how some people just seem to be able to get more done, day in and day out? Do you have someone in your circle of friends who somehow stays more positive, whatever is going on around them? What could it be that helps some people stay happier, healthier, more productive and more driven? We’ve studied this, and one of the things that makes a real difference in the lives of real peo...

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Do you ever worry about the future for your kid? Do you ever feel like you just can’t do enough to help make sure your kid has the tools he or she needs to live a happy, prosperous life? Do you believe (like we do) that kids should not only have good schooling, but should have physical skills, the ability to focus, and some healthy discipline? Sometimes They Need to Learn from Others I&rsqu...

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Have you been looking for a boot camp-style workout? Are you the kind of person who needs a group to help keep you accountable?  Does an hour-long class seem too long? Would a quick, effective boot camp class help solve that for you? Bootcamp Exercises that Don’t Take Up Your Whole Day ...

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Trying to get in better shape? Want to start your days out the right way?  Do one-hour workouts take up too much time? ...

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Want to learn how to protect yourself? Looking for Classes for Self-Defense in the Ann Arbor Area?   ...

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For a long time, there was a perception that karate or martial arts training was a bit of a “boys only” activity. Thankfully, that notion is fading! There’s been an increase over the years of women in martial arts . Shape did a nice article about why women should consider martial arts training. It can be a great way to improve your physical fitness, confidence, and focus. S...

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Where were you thirteen years ago? We opened the doors to the Japanese Martial Arts Center in early June 2006. After years of training in Japan, traveling, and operating a dojo in East Lansing for 10 years, it was exciting to come home and offer authentic Japanese martial arts training in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Just recently we celebrated our 13th anniversary with an open house event showcasing our...

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Are you looking for a way for your child to get out of the house, away from screens, interacting with other kids and having a great time? The Kids Judo in Ann Arbor program at JMAC may be exactly what you’re looking for. ...

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Searching for the right program for kids karate near Ann Arbor? Finding the right martial arts program for your child is important. You want them to find an environment that’s encouraging but also offers an appropriate level of difficulty and discipline. Unfortunately, there are a lot of dojos out there that are designed to simply push your child up through the ranks, to get them the reward...

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Iaido Strength Training Drills for Men and Women Fitness Ann Arbor As we’ve discussed in our recent articles about Martial Arts Diet Tips and Nihon Jujutsu and Functional Fitness , martial arts training offers many terrific opportunities to improve your strength, overall fitness, and mental discipline that you can apply to your everyday life. Iaido (Japanese Swordsmanship) is an incredible ...

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There are many self-defense systems that have been cobbled together from various martial arts styles. While these systems may be good at showing useful techniques, at Japanese Martial Arts Center, we feel it’s important to teach you not only technique but mindset.   Self-Defense for Women and Men At Japanese Martial Arts Center in Ann Arbor, we teach and train in Nihon Jujutsu. Similar...

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Martial Arts Diet Tips for Active Men and Women Fitness Ann Arbor ...

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Start the Year Right with Perfect Functional Fitness – Nihon Jujutsu The new year is always packed with goals: “This is the year I’m going to drop those extra pounds.” “This is the year I’m going to eat right.” “This is the year I’m going to join a gym and get fit.”  Do you say that every January but by the time February rolls aroun...

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Everyone needs exercise. It’s imperative to get out there and move and get your heart rate up! Fitness doesn’t have to mean ripped muscles and a sculpted physique … although it can if that’s what you want. Getting movement into your daily routine as well as a balanced healthy diet that is right for you is key for men and women who want to improve their fitness. Where do y...

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I'm afraid I'll get injured.  How do I find a martial art and dojo that offer a safe training environment instead of a fight club? Do I need a basic set of skills before I can learn a martial art? What's the difference between the different styles of jujutsu, (aka jujitsu, jiujitsu)? Safe, Systematic, Supportive Your coworker trains in karate. Your neighbor trains in judo.  ...

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Did you know you can improve your ability to apply your techniques through the study of martial arts other than your primary one? Wouldn't it be great to have the opportunity to integrate skills from other arts into your practice? Do you want to learn more about the common skillsets found in judo, aikido, and jujutsu? Foundations and Evolutions of Tomiki Aikido  "I'm having diff...

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Did you know there’s an approach available to help you move beyond basic techniques to effective, free-flowing, real time application? Want to learn more about Tomiki Sensei’s Randori no Kata? The Missing Link  “I train several times a week, but continue to feel slow, tight, and mechanical during randori, or free practice.” Welcome to the club! Many of us feel this wa...

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2018 Spring Aikido, Judo, & Jujutsu Seminar March 16, 17, & 18, 2018 Are you ready to take your martial arts to the next level? Want to learn a set of skills to safely and systematically move from basic techniques to effective, free-flowing, real time application? Did you know there’s an approach to elevate your training that helps whether you’re involved in judo, jujutsu or a...

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The late Yamaguchi Katsuo Sensei, Iaido Meijin 10th Dan, wrote a forward to my first book The Art of Japanese Swordsmanship . He wrote, in part, this: The secret to iaido is a calm spirit. With a tranquil heart you put your hand on the hilt of your sword - in a split second your hand moves to cut down the opponent and resheath the sword - then return to your composed mind. A serene spirit must be...

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There is a land of the living and a land of the dead, and the bridge is love, the only survival, the only meaning. - Thornton Wilder The well known American swordsman John Ray visited JMAC several years ago. It was a wonderful moment for me to meet someone who had lived an experience similar to my own ... moving to Japan, studying iaido for years, having success there, and returning to teach in t...

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Sometimes just sticking with a thing is enough to separate yourself from the crowd. If you've been in the traditional martial arts for any length of time, you've heard your teacher mention how many of the best aspects of training come only after years or decade of persistence. Sometimes it's about sticking with what you're doing even for a few years, and then taking time to reflec...

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Get Inspired Again! It's easy to fall into slothful habits and overeating. I've seen more than a few students disappear during the later part of the year, only to reappear in January carrying a few more pounds and a little shame because of the lost training time. I remember a teacher telling me years ago that "if you miss a week of training, it will take you three weeks to get back t...

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Almost Nobody Does This! This week's suggestion is really, really important. It's different from the way almost everybody practices. In fact, almost everybody I've trained with or taught in 46 years who's mediocre or just "pretty good" at martial arts does this wrong, and almost everybody who's very good or exceptional has figured out how to do this well. So here it ...

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Find a Role Model   We’ve been thinking a lot about how to get better, both in martial arts and in life. Here are some thoughts about finding and following a role model:   One shorter path to success is to follow someone who has already walked it. Find someone who has achieved what you hope to achieve. For many of you, this will be your Sensei (your “Master” in Tae Kwo...

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It’s about the martial arts training, not the rank!   In nearly 50 years of martial arts training, competing, deep study, and teaching, I’ve seen it over and over. There IS a real difference between the exceptional martial artist and the average student. The exceptional martial artist keeps rank in its proper perspective.   They know that the momentary joy of getting a new b...

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Are you concerned about you or your loved ones being threatened, mugged or attacked? Do you worry about active shooter situations or terrorist attacks? If so, you may be ready to learn no-nonsense self-defense in a clean, professional environment. Traditional martial arts get you fitter, more focused and more effective. But there can be a huge difference between personal development in the long t...

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Is Judo effective when it comes to self-defense? Yes! But first you have to get good at it. Judo means "gentle way", not because it is an easy martial art, but because everyone can partake and benefit from training. Judo focuses on using efficiency and technique in overcoming an opponent, rather than brute strength. Judo was first established as an effective martial art when judoka domi...

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The Japanese Martial Arts Center did an interview with John Gage Sensei, head of the Nihon Jujutsu system, on his upcoming trip to Copenhagen, Denmark. Gage Sensei is teaching at a seminar from October 16-18, 2015 through the International Martial Arts Federation [IMAF].   ...

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Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu share an arsenal of effective, deadly chokehold techniques. These dominating submissions are popular in the military, MMA, and self-defense. The beauty of the chokehold is that it requires minimal amounts of force and provides leverage against bigger opponents. The similarities between the Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu chokeholds are no coincidence. At the turn of the ...

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Toshihiko Koga - 6 Judo Olympic champion. Kayla Harrison - 6 Olympic gold medalist 2012. Bruce Lee - 8 Martial arts film star and master. Chojun Miyagi - 9 Goju-ru Karate founder - blended Okinawan and Chinese styles.   Masahiko Kimura - 9 An arm lock is named after him because he broke Helio Gracie's arm. Judo master. Rika Usami - 10 Female Karate kata champion. Gichin Funakoshi - 11 Fo...

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Consider your martial arts experience:     ⁃    Do you find yourself panicking during falls, joint locks, choke holds, testing, or randori (free practice)?     ⁃    Is your movement so tense and rigid that it is difficult to execute techniques?     ⁃    Do you ever feel so stressed that your breathing ...

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Judo 柔道 means "gentle way". Judo is a self-defense, combat, and Olympic martial art. It was founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano. The purpose of Judo is manifest in the mottoes Kano came up with: "Maximum Efficiency with Minimum Effort" and "Mutual Welfare and Benefit". Judoka 柔道家 means "judo practitioner". Although it traditionally refers to those of 4...

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Karate 空手 means "empty hand". It was invented in Okinawa, formerly the Ryukyu Islands, under the influence of Chinese martial arts. It was brought to the Japanese mainland with the intent of creating a systematic combat style. Karate focuses on strikes, such as punching and kicking. Karateka 空手家 means "a practitioner of karate". If you are a karate student, you are a...

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The purpose of etiquette in martial arts is to ensure the safety of those training and enhance the quality of training. How to Bow Standing (Shizentai) The heels are together, the back is straight, and the hands rest naturally at the sides of the body.   ...

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These Japanese words are commonly spoken at the dojo. Not only do they carry a deep historical significance, but enhance the overall quality of the Ann Arbor martial arts dojo experience!   ...

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History Jûjutsu, which generally refers to systems of unarmed combative techniques, is one of the oldest branches of Japanese martial arts. Images of fighters using jûjutsu techniques can be found in a variety of early historical records. Nihon Jujutsu is a modern Japanese martial art that focuses on practical, efficient techniques as originally found in both ancient and contemporary ...

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The Good Olympic gold medalist, Kayla Harrison, brought home gold from the Judo Grand Slam Tokyo. Claiming first place in women's under 78 kg, she upset the home crowd in Japan and became the first American judoka to take first place at this particular tournament. The European Judo Union (EJU) celebrated the 50 years that Judo has been in the Olympics. Judo's Olympic debut took place at T...

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Are you stressed out right now? Here are some quotes from martial artists that focus on combatting issues:   ...

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Here’s something you can brag about! If you participate in any of our Ann Arbor martial arts programs, you have a very close connection to the founder of Judo, Jigoro Kano.   This infographic breaks it down:   ...

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Consider the following words:   banana      vomit   Certain images come to mind. You can imagine the sweet, yellow fruit that is the banana. Perhaps even your memory was able to access the taste of the fruit. When you read the two words together, your mind began to make an uncomfortable association between the fruit and a sense of nausea.   Daniel Kahneman ...

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The diet of a martial artist impacts how he or she performs. From eating to gain strength to maintaining optimal health, diet is an integral part of martial arts fitness. Here's a quick presentation of what past and present martial artists eat: Shaolin Monks This diet is based on Buddhist concepts, such as simplicity and pacifism. What is eaten is not only to fuel the body at its essential le...

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Do you ever wonder what kind of advantages you afford you child when you enroll him or her in a martial arts class? Ann Arbor has many resources that promote the learning and development of kids, including your local dojo! Check out these fun factoids to learn how martial arts benefit your kid!   ...

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Judo is an excellent way to improve your physical and mental fitness.   In this video, Instructor Dana Jackson demonstrates some excellent Judo combos that can be used for randori , or competition fighting.   Video Key Points Timing : Notice his swift timing during the transitions between the throws.   Structure : Even if his first throw doesn't work, he has a strong structure ...

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Andrea Derler is a powerhouse. She knows German and English, and has international experience in Austria, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States.   During the day, she is a consultant associate for LEAD Institute and hosts leadership workshops through Washtenaw Community College. She is a PhD candidate in Economics, with a focus on Leadership and Organizational Development.  ...

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What if you could live the life you’ve always wanted? Picture it. What does it look like? Are you living that life right now ? In a Huffington Post article on the “ Top 5 Regrets of the Dying ”, a nurse found that the most common regret was; “I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.” When you’re over 50...

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What is a Tenugui ? A tenugui is a piece of dyed cotton cloth.   The History of the Tenugui The tenugui was first used as an accessory for Shinto rituals during the Heian period (AD 794 – 1192).  It became popular during the Kamakura period (1192 – 1333). As cotton became more abundant, the tenugui became a staple in Japanese attire. It was commonly worn during the Edo perio...

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Differences in Japanese Martial Art Names   The Difference Between “Budō” and “Bujutsu” Budō bu war Translation: martial way, way of war dō way, path Bujutsu bu war Translation: science of war, martial craft jutsu technique Budō focuses a lot on a “way of life” or a path. The word tends to refer to the more philosophical aspect of martial arts.   ...

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Did you know that May 5 is Kodomo no Hi , a Japanese national holiday that celebrates the birth and personalities of children? To celebrate the awesome kids at the Japanese Martial Arts Center, we put together a list of reasons why we love our students!   1. They’re bright! Our kickin’ kids in the karate and judo programs are great when it comes to learning new kata (forms), rand...

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Did you know that across the globe 3-5% of martial artists go on to earn black belts? At the Japanese Martial Arts Center, the percent of people who have started training and become black belts is about 2%. That means that out of 100 people, 2 students made it to shodan! Ann Arbor University of Michigan graduate students stand a much higher chance of earning a PhD! Why the low percentage at JMAC?...

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Reasons Why You Should Take Advantage of Ann Arbor Martial Arts Programs What if I told you that there was a way to achieve the following characteristics? Become happy and relieve stress Lose weight Gain fast twitch muscles, flexibility, and strength Slow the aging process Join a community of healthy, well-balanced people Become more intelligent You probably think you’re being sold a pill. ...

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The Right Fit: Among the Best Martial Arts Ann Arbor Has to Offer Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or someone who's never been involved in martial arts, Ann Arbor provides many choices that are of high quality and integrity. It can be difficult to choose which program to start with when there's such a variety. Some questions that you might ask when picking a program are: &ldqu...

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