Welcome 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
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 instructorsMore Information about Nihon Jujutsu
What does it mean to teach "traditional" martial arts? It can mean many things, some obvious and some not so obvious. A few of the major aspects of a traditional dojo include: a verifiable lineage in a recognized historical style, a respectful atmosphere, reasonable training fees, and observance of basic formalities.
For more on this topic, visit the JMAC Blog.