Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Amos Smith
Is training at your dojo hard?
Yes, it can be. Like in all things, with hard work comes greater reward. You will get out of your training, what you put into it.
Why is discipline at your dojo so strict?
Because we work on very dangerous things. Without strict personal and group discipline, injuries will occur and we will quickly run out of students. If you want a casual atmosphere, work on casual techniques. If you want intense training and realistic techniques, the discipline is simply a matter of safety.
Will I have to fight at your dojo?
Competitive combat is not part of the program. We work together to perfect our techniques as well as our escapes. We learn as a team, we work as a team, we train as a team. This ensures that we develop skills quickly and as safely as possible. When you have earned your first Black Belt in our arts, this will begin to change, and by then you will be more than prepared for the encounter.
How long does it take to earn a Black Belt?
For some, a few years, for others a decade or more. It depends largely on the student’s natural ability as well as the work that they put into it. It is important to understand that Shodan is a starting point and that the ranks preceding black belt, are the foundation upon which your instruction will be built. It is at Black Belt, that you will be considered a serious student.
Are you connected with any dojo in Japan?
We don’t currently maintain ties to any dojo in Japan.
Are you associated with Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu?
Though the name is similar, there is no connection.
Why should I train in traditional martial arts?
Different people, have different reasons for training in traditional arts and this should not suggest that one person's motivation is better or worse than another's. Some people enjoy the historical connection to an earlier time. Others come to the dojo to improve themselves physically and mentally through rigorous training and others still, to develop personal combat skills. If either of the latter two motivations best describe your reasons, you will not find a better place to train.
How do I choose the right martial art?
Having trained in several personal combat arts and sports over the past 20 years, I’ve found that there is no correlation between the type of art or specific school, and the quality of instruction. Martial Arts are a lifetime pursuit and it may take some time to find the instructor that you will call "Sensei". It is always best to visit a dojo, watch a class and question the instructor as well as the students. After doing this, consider what you've seen and heard and then decide for yourself. If this sounds like too much work, just pick the most convenient location and start training.
How can I learn more about a specific school on the internet?
The best source for on-line information about any school will be found on their website. Because the accuracy of information available on the internet is unregulated and subject to a variety of viewpoints and motivations, the best way to learn about any school, is to visit and watch a class. You will learn more by watching a class for one hour at the dojo, then you will in one hundred hours on-line.
Are Women encouraged to train with you?
Serious students are always welcome in our dojo. We make no differentiation between male and female students. A woman is expected to perform with the same proficiency as a man of her size.
Do you make a living from your dojo?
Most instructors in traditional martial arts make a living by working outside of the dojo. I don’t know of anyone in our group that is making a living from running a dojo. Dues paid by the students are used to cover things like lights, heat, insurance and other dojo expenses. If an instructor does well, they may "break even" at the end of the year.
Why do you run a dojo, if it doesn’t make money?
Obligation. Many of us view the time that our instructors have spent providing us with training and instruction as an incredible gift…one which cannot be repaid. Our only option for attempting to make good, is becoming exceptional students and producing exceptional students.
To find out more, click the hyperlink below.
Chicago Budôkai Home: www.chicagobudokai.com
All articles, photographs, and illustrations are protected by copyright (©2002/2004 Heiwa Dôjô, Inc.)