South Elgin Budokan Training Programs

Bujutsu is our flagship program and involves multiple instructors’ input to create a well-structured class for you. Our Bujutsu is a dynamic style that was established in the 1960s with contributions from modern and traditional training disciplines. It is the blending of various martial arts styles and experiences that produces an effective system joining all aspects of martial arts (kicking, striking, joint manipulation, grappling, throwing and ground fighting techniques). Youth classes are available for ages 4+.

Kickboxing classes include Muay Thai training. Various forms of kickboxing have long been practiced throughout Southeast Asia. Muay Thay (the national sport of Thailand) is one of the most popular combat sports in the world. You will learn kicks, powerful knee and elbow strikes, as well as punching combinations. All of our classes emphasize developing proper technique and conditioning. None of our classes require contact, but it is available for those wanting to step into the ring. When ready, sparring sessions will be available to take your training to the next level. Ages 12+.

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 welcome ages 6+

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, fall prevention, flexibility and coordination. We have several weekly classes for all skill levels and ages and one specifically for for those with limited mobility. Many students schedule private lessons in this discipline. Participants from all ages and skill levels attend our classes.

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.

Weapon training has long been a respected part of martial arts traditions around the world. This training demands attention to detail and a calm, focused mind which connects you to the roots of martial arts. Students learn body mechanics, distance control, and transitions — valuable skills for both weapon-based and unarmed combat.

Wing Chun teaches the ancient Chinese martial art of using your opponent’s energy against them, and promoting whole body health while practicing this art. Wing Chun’s techniques are based on natural body movements which are simple and easy to apply. The simplicity of the system makes it an ideal martial art for defense. Ages 12+.

Pencak Silat is a blanket term referring to the variety of martial arts indigenous to the Malay Archipelago and the Malay Peninsula. It is a full-body fighting form incorporating strikes, grappling, and throwing, in addition to weaponry. Every part of the body is used and subject to attack. Silat teaches you how to hit hard from any position and how to deal with the threat of multiple attackers while being on the ground.

The basic strikes are the punch and kick with many variations in between. Strikes may be performed with the fists, open palms, shins, feet, elbows, knees, shoulders or fingers. Mature youth and adults. Saturday seminars are held once a month 11:00a to 1:00p.

Qigong is a simple and effective way to bring back balance in your life. It is a gentle practice that combines body movement, breathing, and meditation. It comes from Chinese medicine and philosophy and is meant to help balance your body’s energy, called qi. People practice qigong to stay healthy, relax, reduce stress, and improve focus. It can also be used for healing, personal growth, and martial arts training. Seminars are held once a month on a Saturday, 11:00a to 1:00p; anyone interested is welcome to join us.