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Authentic Japanese Martial Arts

Yoshitsune Jujutsu Kai provides genuine, authentic instruction in two distinct, complementary martial arts, focusing exclusively on mature adults. These programs are suitable for adults of all age groups, welcoming students from their 20s through their 70s.

Dojo Curriculum
1. Hakko Ryu Jujutsu

What is it: A classical and comprehensive system of traditional Japanese self-defense.
Core Focus: Emphasizes using minimal effort and leverage against an attacker's joints and pressure points to achieve effective control.
Training Benefit: Develops practical self-defense skills, teaching students to subdue an aggressor through precision and technique, not size or strength.
Lineage: The school teaches the Hakko Ryu system, which descends from the Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu lineage. Instruction is authentic, with licensed instructors ensuring official rank and certification is sanctioned in Japan. The school maintains a direct, authentic connection to the art's current Headmaster, Toshio Okuyama Sensei, in Omiya, Japan.

2. Ryushin Shouchi Ryu (Iaido)

What is it: A classical Japanese sword art focused on the katana (sword).
Core Focus: Centered on four key elements: Kihon (fundamental movements), the Core Principles (the philosophy of the art), Iaido (the practice of drawing and cutting), and Kumitachi (paired wooden sword practice).
Training Benefit: Highly effective for cultivating strong mental focus, discipline, precision, and timing.
Lineage: The style is Ryushin Shouchi Ryu, which descends from the tradition of Tenshinsho Jigen-ryū. The school maintains a direct, authentic connection to the art's current Headmaster, Yahagi Kunikazu Sensei, in Tokyo, Japan.

Core Principles of Training
The ultimate goal of training is the mastery of the physical techniques (waza) through the application of universal martial principles (gensoku). These concepts, refined through constant practice, apply to both Jujutsu and Iaido.

Timing (Sen/GonoSen): The critical moment for action, whether initiating the technique or responding just after the opponent's attack begins.
Distance (Maai): The critical, combatively engaged distance between you and your partner or opponent, which must be constantly managed.
Focus (Shoshin): The concentration of mind and spirit, often manifesting as a focused, penetrating gaze or unwavering intention.
Menstuke: The manner in which you look at your opponent; generally meaning to not focus on a single point but to take in the entire person and situation.
Kokyū (Breathing): The coordinated use of breath and energy to maximize power and stability during technique execution.
Zanshin (Remaining Mind): The state of continued, sustained awareness, even after a technique is completed; maintaining readiness for any further threat.
Courage: The mental strength required to face an opponent without hesitation, coupled with the wisdom to avoid unnecessary conflict.

Why Choose Hakko Ryu Jujutsu?

No Challenge, No Resistance, No Injury: Learn powerful self-defense techniques without relying on brute force or risking injury.
Effective Joint Locks: Master the use of leverage and angles to control an opponent's movement without relying on brute force or causing injury.
Highly Effective Pressure Points: Master the art of manipulating an opponent's balance and structure using natural pressure points.
Practical Self-Defense for All: Suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels. Gain confidence and real-world skills.
Small Class Sizes: Enjoy personalized instruction and rapid progress in our focused learning environment.
Renowned Instruction: Train directly under Chief Instructor Fred Bernier, a Menkyo Kaiden (Master Senior Instructor) with decades of experience.

Why Choose Ryushin Shouchi Ryu Iaido?

Active Meditation: The precise, deliberate movements of Iaido are a powerful form of mindfulness, perfect for reducing stress and improving concentration.
Inner Calm & Focus: Cultivate a deep sense of presence and mental tranquility, which complements your understanding of holistic well-being and aids cognitive health.
Fluid Movement & Posture: Develop balance, elegant body control, and physical alignment by mastering the precise form required for effective swordsmanship.
Authentic Traditional Art: Master the classical techniques of the katana, tracing a direct lineage back to the venerable Tenshinsho Jigen-ryū tradition.
Our Core Promise: No Injury. We strictly adhere to our philosophy of No Challenge, No Resistance, and No Injury. You can focus on mastery without the physical strain or risk of injury often associated with competitive martial arts.
Renowned Instruction: Train directly under Chief Instructor Fred Bernier, who holds the rank of 5th Degree, Renshi, Shidoin (Licensed Expert Instructor) in Ryushin Shouchi Ryu.

Instructor Bio
Fred Bernier, Chief Instructor
Fred has been dedicated to the study and practice of Japanese martial arts since 1978, holding senior black belt ranks and formal teaching licenses in both Japanese Jujutsu and Iaido.

Jujutsu Ranks: He holds the highest teaching title, Menkyo Kaiden Shihan (License, Full Transmission, Master Instructor), in Hakko Ryu Jujutsu, and the rank of 7th Degree, Renshi Shihan, in Yoshitsune Jujutsu.
Iaido Rank: He holds the rank of 5th Degree, Renshi, Shidoin (Licensed Expert Instructor) in Ryushin Shouchi Ryu Iado.
Integrated Expertise: Dr. Bernier is also a Doctor of Acupuncture and Traditional Eastern Medicine. This comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology directly informs his instruction, reflecting a deep integration of expertise often found in traditional martial arts.

Testimonials

Tun, Bayonne: "The experience and passion of the art taught by Sensei is felt when you walk through the door. Proud to be a student."
John, Bayonne: "Great energy and attention... Knowledge, wisdom, and respect are offered by the instructors... Recommended."
Steve, South Orange: "Fred Bernier is the best Sensei I've ever studied under. Depth of knowledge, skill, teaching methods... simply without compare. Special experience."
Humberto, Bayonne (63 years old!): "I'm able to keep up with the younger crowd. Sensei's philosophy: 'more strength in less power.' Highly recommend."
DeShawn, Jersey City: "Great Dojo! Phenomenal Training... Hands on. Will definitely build your self-defense skills here."
Emery, Jersey City: "Very diverse Dojo with experienced Sensei's, it is an elite dojo. High ranking and many years of training."
Bill, Cranford (Started at 55, now Sandan, 3rd Degree!): "Welcoming and supportive environment... two outstanding instructors and helpful students. If you're looking for traditional Japanese Jujutsu, explore this dojo."

Training Schedule and Dues
Class Schedule

Training is offered multiple times per week, providing flexibility for adult students.
Monday: 6:00 PM – Japanese Sword (Iaido / Iaijutsu)
Tuesday: 6:30 PM – Japanese Jujutsu
Wednesday: 6:00 PM – Japanese Sword (Iaido / Iaijutsu)
Thursday: 6:30 PM – Japanese Jujutsu
Saturday (Morning): 9:00 AM – Japanese Sword (Iaido / Iaijutsu)
Saturday (Morning): 10:30 AM – Japanese Jujutsu

Fees & Dues

Monthly Dues: Jujutsu Kai members pay $125 per month.
Policy: The school operates with no contracts of any kind.
Membership Coverage: Your monthly membership entitles you to attend all scheduled Jujutsu and Sword classes.

Free Introductory Classes
💥Ready to start your journey towards mastery?

Claim your Free Introduction Jujutsu Class Now:
➡️ Click Here: https://www.yoshitsune-jujutsu-kai.com/intro-class.html

Claim your Free Introduction Iaido Class Now:
➡️ Click Here: https://www.yoshitsune-jujutsu-kai.com/intro-class---iaijutsu.html