The foundation of our program is centered on practical self defense. The adult curriculum contains all the material in the school and each younger age group going down to the Kids has been modified with that group’s physical and mental developmental stage in mind. In other words techniques and concepts in the adult curriculum that the Kids or Youth groups simply aren’t ready for were moved to later points in there training when they would be old enough to learn them. We use a belt system as a way to mark the path toward black belt. Each belt is a mini goal that once achieved helps to keep the student motivated toward the larger goal of combining the physical accomplishments of increased strength, stamina, agility and coordination with the mental accomplishments of increased confidence, focus, self-discipline, respect and awareness which are at the core of what it means to receive a black belt from Budo.

The secret to being able to protect yourself is commitment. You must commit one hundred percent effort or you will fail! The ability to commit one hundred percent comes from confidence. If you have confidence in yourself you can do anything. So our approach to self defense is very dependant upon your age and developmental state. This is why our 6 – 8 year old class is a totally different experience then our adult class. So we work towards building everyone’s confidence. Every class is taught with positive reinforcement. The children work on character development from goal setting, self discipline, honesty, integrity, and a positive attitude. This is the best defense a child can have for dealing with bullies and negative people in their lives.

" I have been doing martial arts for five years, and I like Budo a lot better than other martial arts schools I tried.  Other schools are really strict - but Sensei Aka and Sensei Carlo are really nice, and they explain what they teach.  They are FUN, and even have us play games at the end of class, like Silent Ninja and Dodge the Pads."

Aaron Tinkelman
Age:  9
Green Belt

" Budo is 1,000 times better than where my son was before .   The class size is terrific, and affords a lot of individual attention.  The instructors demand respect without putting undue pressure on the children - they never use fear tactics and I really appreciate the constant feedback Sensei Carlo and Sensei Aka give the parents."

Melissa Tinkelman
Aaron's Mom

As for the adults we work on pushing their comfort level a little at a time. In this way they grow without feeling like they are in a self help program. Since the program is about practical application we talk to them about the realities of street conflicts. We talk about the legal repercussions to using the skills that they learn. Most importantly we give the mental training needed to survive a street conflict. 85% to 90% of any conflict is not determined by what you know but whether or not you can control the adrenaline that courses through your body in the middle of an engagement. Our program progresses them through increasing levels of intensity so they are not overwhelmed but actually in better control of those mental processes.

"As a 30+ year-old working mom who had no previous interest in martial arts, I initially joined Budo viewing it only as a fitness tool. I never thought learning martial arts could be so fun or rewarding. It's the best mental and physical workout I've ever had . At first I felt silly, and even looked like a "deer in headlights" when the Sensei pushed me to my limits, but it became a welcome release that I look forward to all week. No two classes are the same, which keeps my interest level high. It has more than just improved my level of fitness; it has given me confidence to defend myself if ever needed.

The training that I have received from Sensei Carlo and Sensei Aka has been the primary reason I enjoy Budo so much. Sensei Carlo and Sensei Aka are always positive and supportive while encouraging you to strive to do your best. They are Sensei of the highest caliber, yet their own great skills do not keep them from understanding the frustrations of beginners. They are an example of setting goals and working hard to achieve them.

I strongly recommend Budo to anyone looking for a great workout, a great time and self-improvement."

Raquel Spatzier

"For years, my son has received physical therapy, and I first became interested in martial arts for him as a complement to it - a way to help improve his strength and balance. Now, looking back to where we began, I often find myself amazed by how far Sensei Aka and Sensei Carlo have helped him come physically. They are so supportive and encouraging - I Love watching my son's proud smile at his own accomplishments . I'm a Budo student as well, and this experience has really given us something to share that's just between us.

For me, training at Budo has become a part of my life. It's a phenomenal workout, and Sensei Aka and Sensei Carlo make classes a fun, safe place to challenge the limits of my comfort zone . Everything about their approach screams individual attention. What my experience here has done for my awareness, my confidence, is nothing short of a transformation. Training elsewhere is unthinkable. Me, my son, and eventually my daughters - we're in it for the long haul ."

Sheila Caruso

"After trying several different martial arts schools, I'm really happy to join Budo. I get a great workout while having lots of fun . Physically, I'm in the best shape I've ever been. Mentally, I feel more confident when I leave my office late at night . I look forward to participating in Budo for many years to come."

Anna Chen , MD

We want our students to experience the Full Range of practical self defense skills so they can be prepared for whatever life sends their way.