Japanese Martial Arts Center (JMAC)(Click Play button below for video)Judo, Jujutsu (Jiu Jitsu), IaidoWelcome to the Japanese Martial Arts Center, the "Rolls-Royce" of Ann Arbor martial arts schools, where you will find world-class instruction, a stunning facility, and tireless dedication to your success. Our goal is to help each of our members achieve excellence - in technique, character, and in their relationship with the world. Our dojo offers training for serious, committed students, small class sizes, and a joyful but focused atmosphere. You can train in iaido (Japanese swordsmanship), jujutsu (sometimes spelled "jujitsu"), and judo. Learn how to choose a martial arts school that is right for you!
Japanese Swordsmanship: Iaido is Zen swordsmanship.
Our Sensei (instructor) is one of the best-known iaido instructors in North
America. He was 4-times All Tokyo Champion and is the
author of many books and articles on Japanese martial arts. You will learn
iaido forms, sparring drills, and test cutting while you cultivate a keen
sense of awareness and spiritual calmness. You are welcome to stop in to watch
iaido - check our schedule for class times.
About Iaido
Nihon Jujutsu: Also known as "jujitsu" or "jiu jitsu," this traditional martial art is an
enjoyable and effective system of self-defense and character development,
founded by Sato Shizuya Sensei, Chief Director of Kokusai Budoin, IMAF.
Through training in joint locks, takedowns, and pins, you will learn to
defend yourself, improve your ability to concentrate, and develop a
balanced mindset. Jujutsu is a terrific martial art for all ages - we
encourage you to try it!
About Nihon Jujutsu
Kodokan Judo: Judo is both a traditional martial art and an Olympic sport. You will learn
throwing and grappling skills while you cultivate a strong body and
fighting spirit. No martial art is more physically demanding, no martial
art is more fun than judo.
Classes at our dojo are available daytimes, evenings, and Saturdays.
About Judo
Youth Judo: Our youth judo classes are specially tailored for boys and girls in grades
4 - 9. We keep kids interested by keeping classes fun, safe, and just
challenging enough. Beginners and experienced students are welcome.
Stop by with your child on Wednesday evening or Saturday morning and see
how much fun the students at our dojo are having!
About Judo
Other Martial Arts: Although JMAC does not offer aikido classes, Japanese jujutsu is considered
the mother art of aikido, and employs many of the same principles as
aikido. However, Nihon Jujutsu is considered easier to learn and somewhat more
practical. Like the striking arts karate and kung-fu, jujutsu teaches the
effective use of striking methods, as well as the use of vital points as
targets for striking in self-defense. Jujutsu also incorporates weapons
practice: the tanbo for self-defense, as well as defense against such
weapons as the knife, pistol, and jo (staff).
Because the JMAC sensei have at least some experience in a variety of
martial arts such as aikido, bagua, batto-jutsu, hsingi, iaido, jujujtsu,
judo, kali, karate, kendo, kickboxing, kungfu, san chuan dao, taekwondo,
and tai chi, they can offer insights into the relationships between various
martial arts and the effective training methods found in those arts.
About our instructors More Information about Nihon Jujutsu |
JMAC News |
Test Checklist
TEST CHECKLIST FOR STUDENTS We know how hard you have worked to prepare for testing. To ensure the appropriate level of seriousness and safety, please be sure to follow this checklist when preparing for your test day. 1. Uniforms: You and your uniform must be clean and tidy. Be sure your uniform is washed and unwrinkled. Sleeves and pant legs may not be rolled up – please have them tailored! 2. Jewelry: No jewelry may be worn during a formal test. Be sure to remove all earrings, necklaces, piercings, friendship bracelets, etc. 3. Be On Time: Please be warmed up and ready to go at test time. 4. Dues: Your dues must be current in order to test. 5. Techniques: It is your responsibility to know the techniques required for your test. Check with Sensei if you are not sure. 6. Visitors: You are welcome to invite friends and family to watch the test. 7. Waiting: Often, the hardest part of a test is waiting for your turn to be called. Please prepare yourself for an extended period of sitting and/or waiting. 8. Uke’s Role: If you are part of a two-person kata, remember that uke’s role is critical. Uke (receiver) has the job of making tori (do-er) look his/her best. Often, uke is being evaluated on the basis of his/her skill, just as is tori. 9. Decorum: At every moment during your performance, carry yourself with confidence. A mistake is not fatal to promotion, but an inappropriate outburst may be. Never criticize other dojo members. 10. Donations: You are asked, not required, to donate $10 toward the JMAC building fund when you test. 11. Factors: Many factors are considered for promotion in traditional budo, including time in practice, attendance, dojo citizenship, positive attitude and behavior, ability, and improvement over time. Try to excel in all these areas! 12. Certificates: If you want internationally recognized certification of your promotion, consider joining the Shudokan Martial Arts Association, North America’s most prestigious general budo organization. Check with Sensei for details (JMAC students at sankyu and above are required to join SMAA).