Programs
B U D O K A N: Program Descriptions
House of Martial Arts
Aikido…
is an art involving throws and joint locks that are derived from Jujitsu and throws and other techniques derived from Kenjutsu. Aikido focuses not on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own energy to gain control of them or to throw them away from you. It is not a static art, but places great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement.
Mature youth and adults are welcome to join this program.
Arnis…
is the Filipino self-defense system incorporating stick fighting and empty hand defenses. This art enhances balance, along with hand, eye and neuromuscular coordination. Arnis is the national sport of the Philippines, just as Tae Kwon Do is the national sport of Korea and ice hockey is the national sport of Canada. Appropriate for youth through adults.
Competitive and Fitness Boxing…
Both programs focus on the development of overall body conditioning, while focusing on the neuromuscular coordination to perform proper strikes and defensive maneuvers with one’s hands while always maintaining proper balance and posture. All skill levels are welcome, with advanced students having the opportunity to participate in instructional sparring sessions, when appropriate. Boxing is one of many sports our U.S. athletes will be competing for the gold at the 2012 summer Olympics.
Bujutsu…
is the culmination/hybrid of various martial arts styles and experiences to produce an effective system which incorporates all aspects of martial arts (kicking, punching, joint manipulation with grappling, throwing and ground fighting techniques). This is our flagship program and involves multiple instructors’ input to create a well-structured class for you.
Classes for youth (age 6+) and adult classes (18 years+) are available; adults and youth train in separate classes.
Hapkido…
is a Korean form of defense which focuses on joint manipulation techniques, wrist and arm locks, along with practical striking and kicking. The allure of this discipline is that a smaller or older individual can overcome a larger attacker because all individuals are susceptible to joint pain. Classes are currently for ages 15+ years.
Traditional Japanese JiuJitsu…
is the original JiuJitsu which incorporates both grappling and striking techniques to use an attacker’s actions to mount a counterattack and eliminate the threat. Japanese Jujitsu does not rely on strength, but rather an understanding of the human body and the law of physics to achieve devastating punches, kicks, locks and throws.
Classes are available for beginner to advance youth and adult students.
Judo…
is a competitive Olympic sport that emphasizes safety; the physical activity required will produce a high level of conditioning. It is the ancient Japanese art which utilizes spectacular throwing techniques, but also involves considerable grappling on the ground utilizing control holds, arm locks, and choking techniques. Judo is learned on special mats for comfort and safety.
All experience levels and ages are welcome.
Kung Fu…
is the ancient Chinese art of self defense, originating back to the Shaolin Monks. While not only a comprehensive system of self-defense, it is great exercise, and a true art form. Its foundation is built upon respect and self-discipline. Thus, martial arts practitioners learn effective fighting skills while promoting their physical and mental well-being. Intermediate to advance students are welcome.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)…
is a full contact combat sport that allows the use of both striking and grappling techniques, both standing and on the ground, including boxing, wrestling, kickboxing, karate, judo and other styles. The roots of modern mixed martial arts can be traced back to the ancient Olympic combat sport of Pankration. Mature youth and adults are welcome to join this program.
Personal Training…
is a one on one personalized program to help one reach their individual fitness goals through the supervision of a certified personal trainer. Whether the goal is obtaining an improved quality of life for the beginner fitness enthusiast or increasing the overall fitness level of the active athlete, a training program will be developed to help you reach your fitness potential. Resistance training, along with aerobic and anaerobic training strategies will be employed to increase strength, mobility and cardiovascular endurance. Training time with a partner or small group is also available which can increase motivation and reduce individual costs.
Self Defense Tactics…
is a class intended for adult students requiring advanced self-defense techniques in their professional jobs. This class includes conditioning and drilling while you learn to control your opponent and predict what they will do. You define the level of training and knowledge you need from the spectrum of basic skills to physically challenging. Individual training is also available.
Shotokan Karate…
is one of the four main schools of Karate in Japan. It is best characterized by its long and deep stances and its use of more linear movements. Shotokon Karate is considered by many a sports style of Karate, where tournaments and point-sparring are central to the art. We welcome ages 10 and up to join our program.
Tai Chi…
is the most widely practiced martial art in the world. Besides being a martial art, it is a complete health system strengthening the muscles and internal organs. It improves balance, flexibility and coordination. We have several weekly classes for all skill levels and ages and one specifically for seniors. Many students schedule private lessons in this discipline.
Participants from all ages attend our classes.
Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention...
is different from the Yang style Tai Chi taught in our other class. It uses the Sun style that is less ballistic / explosive than other forms and places modest demands on twisting and turning and low stances. Designed by Dr. Paul Lam of Australia, it is endorsed by Arthritis organizations in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. Studies have shown it to be effective not only with Arthritis but with other motion oriented health problems such as fibromyalgia, stroke victims, Parkinson’s, and is helpful in preventing falls in seniors.
Women’s Fitness Boxing …
is an intensive full-body conditioning class that includes resistance training, along with aerobic and anaerobic workout strategies. Yes, you do get to put on the gloves and punch the bags too. The health benefits described in the Competitive and Fitness Boxing section apply here.
Women’s Self Defense…
is not martial arts training. It is doing everything possible to avoid fighting someone who threatens or attacks you. Self-defense is all about using your smarts — not your fists. This class teaches you to trust your instincts and to find ways to de-escalate the situation. Your intuition, combined with your common sense, can help get you out of trouble.
Our program includes physical conditioning and is geared for mature youth and adult education.
Wrestling…
is a program focused on high school and college level wrestling styles known as Scholastic, but can include Freestyle and Greco-Roman styles. This program continues to improve one’s technique and knowledge of the sport, while ensuring a high level of cardiovascular endurance and increased muscular strength. Watch for our U.S. grappling team this summer at the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Yoga…
is a physical, mental, and spiritual discipline, originating in ancient India considered a mind-body type of complementary and alternative medicine practice. Yoga brings together physical and mental disciplines in a non-contact forum to achieve peacefulness of body and mind, helping you relax and manage the stress and anxiety of everyday life. Mature youth and adults are always welcomed.
Special classes and seminars can be developed for specific student or group needs.
Please contact us for more information.
South Elgin Budokan
959 N. LaFox (Rt. 31)
(Directly Across from Thornton's Gas Station)
847-888-8866
Contact Us
Email us directly
