The instructor at the Bujinkan Sevenoaks Dojo is David Heslington.

David has been training in the Bujinkan for over 20 years, and is a Shidoshi (senior instructor). He is also a member of the Bujinkan Shidoshi-Kai (instructors association).

David has attended numerous UK & European seminars (Tai-Kai) and travels to Japan at least once a year to learn from Hatsumi-sensei and his leading Japaense Shihan (master teachers) in the Bujinkan.

David trains every week with Peter King, the senior instructor in the UK, and also with Stephen Boddy. He also attends seminars around the country whenever possible, to learn from other visiting instructors.

David has also started studying the Amatsu Tatara Hichibuku Goshinjutsu, a form of traditional Japanese medicine, with Peter King, which forms an integral part of the Bujinkan. Please see our links section for further information on this fascinating area of study.

What is the training like?

Training takes the form of paired exercises. Unlike other sports based martial arts, there no is competitive aspect in the training. Rather, the opposite is the norm. In order for training to be safe and productive, there is a need for trust and co-operation from both partners.

Practice encompasses both armed and un-armed techniques. The un-armed aspect is similar to traditional Japanese Jujutsu and includes techniques such as striking/punching, kicking, joint locking/manipulation and throwing. Some of the most commonly used weapons in training are the Katana (Japanese sword), rokushaku-bo (6ft staff) and hanbo (3ft staff).

A typical training session lasts around 2 hours and will usually involve the following:

• Stretching and warm up exercises,
• Ukemi - learning to roll / fall safely,
• Kihon - fundamental basic techniques (punching, kicking, joint locking/manipulation, throwing)
• Followed by the particular lesson of the day, which may be based on the year's current theme or a particular school, technique, idea or weapon.

We actively encourage all members/students of the club to travel to Japan in order that they may have the opportunity to train with Hatsumi Sensei and the other senior leading Japanese teachers. There is no requirement for a minimum period of training or grade that must be undertaken for this.

Is the training suitable for me?

Training is open to both men & women who wish to learn the Japanese martial arts.
No previous martial arts experience is necessary, nor do you need to be especially fit.
To participate in training you should be over 18 years of age, however, with parental consent, younger people may train, ideally with some one of their own age group.
In all cases, the minimum age will be 16. There is no upper age limit.

What do I need to begin training?

It is not necessary to get any special clothing or equipment to start with, until you are sure you want to continue training. Initially participants should wear loose clothing, such as a pair of tracksuit bottoms, a T-shirt or sweat shirt. Rather than bare feet, it is preferable that you wear socks to keep your feet warm and clean.

Fees and memberships

Class fees: £8.00 per class

BBMACO membership/Insurance: £10.00 per year

Hombu (Japanese head office) membership: 2000 Yen or £ sterling equivalent per year (to be paid in January)