Two students refine their katachi on the Oregon Coast.
Class Schedule &
Upcoming Events
Click HERE for a full list of upcoming events.
Weekly Classes - Grants Pass YMCA 6:30 - 7:30 PM
One of my primary objectives is to contribute to the community and promote inclusivity in the traditional art of swordsmanship. I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of age, race, social status, or financial means, should have an opportunity to practice and embrace the way of the sword. In pursuit of this goal, I have established a valuable partnership with the YMCA, which enables us to offer a safe and well-maintained space for students to explore the art and refine their techniques.
Through our partnership with the YMCA, we ensure that individuals from diverse backgrounds can engage in the practice of swordsmanship. This collaboration eliminates barriers and provides a supportive environment where students can thrive. It is my firm belief that passion and dedication should be the determining factors for advancement, rather than external circumstances.
As students progress in their training and demonstrate a deeper commitment, they will be offered an invitation to join the advanced dojo. This exclusive setting provides them with more varied and direct training, enabling further growth in their swordsmanship journey. The advanced dojo serves as a space for dedicated individuals to refine their skills, challenge themselves, and continue their pursuit of mastery.
By fostering an environment that values inclusivity and recognizes dedication, I aim to create a community where all individuals, regardless of their background or resources, can pursue their passion for the sword. Together, through our partnership with the YMCA and the opportunities it provides, we can ensure that the path of the sword is accessible to all who are drawn to it, empowering them to embark on a fulfilling journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
YMCA Classes are open to all community.
Classes are FREE for YMCA members
Classes are $5 for nonmembers. The YMCA requires a photo ID and proof of health insurance to get you into their system for the first class.
Regular and diligent attendance at YMCA classes, open students to the opportunity for an invitation to advanced dojo training and special off site events.
The GRANTS PASS YMCA is located at
1000 Redwood Ave
Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
For additional information about the YMCA, Special facility times, and classes call the YMCA at 541-471-1000
Disclaimer: Grants Pass YMCA is not responsible for any club-related activities including content or liability outside of the Grants Pass YMCA facility unless otherwise organized or specified by the Grants Pass YMCA. The YMCA is also not responsible for website content or the use/misuse thereof.
WHAT TO WEAR TO YOUR FIRST CLASS
Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting, clothing or a martial arts uniform.
Additionally, you can bring any necessary assistive devices or supportive gear that might aid you during the class. A significant part of the class can involve kneeling. If you have knee or joint issues, we recommend informing the instructor before the class starts.
If you decide to pursue your studies, each student is required to wear a black hakama, a white Keikogi, and a Kaku Obi. In addition to the uniform, each student is required to bring their own bokken and saya. Over time as a student’s skills improve an iaito will also be required.
Required Uniforms & Equipment
KEIKOGI (Shirt) - The Keikogi, a key part of martial arts uniforms, has been used in swordsmanship for centuries. It's like a sturdy shirt worn by practitioners in disciplines like Iaijutsu, Kenjutsu, Kendo, Judo, and Jujutsu. Designed with pleats and thickness, it can handle tough moves and offers some protection during training
OBI (Belt)- The obi, meaning "belt" in Japanese, is an essential part of Japanese Swordsmanship attire. It not only holds the uniform closed but also influences how practitioners draw their swords and sit in the traditional seiza position.
HAKAMA (Pants)- Hakama, a traditional pleated pants, were a common garment worn by the samurai of ancient times. Originally, serving a practical purpose to protecting the samurai's legs from damage while riding their horses, swordsmen have continued to wear the hakama for many years as a traditional uniform in many Koryu or ancient arts..
NOTE: While many fabrics and colors are available, traditionally, swordsmanship students wear uniforms that are the same throughout their school to recognize their affiliation with that school and with their sensei.
BOKKEN (Wooden Practice Sword)- The bokken is a essential part of training once the student begins practicing forms and essential upper-body skills. It is initially purchased with a Saya or scabbard to assist in preparing the student for the rudimentary use of a katana or Iaito.
For class use, it is essential to choose a bokken with certain features for optimal performance. These include a straight close grain to ensure durability, a tsuba (sword guard), and a stopper to secure the tsuba in place. Additionally, a plastic saya (scabbard) is recommended. Throughout the class, various examples of suitable bokken will be available for demonstration, and instructors are ready to assist and address any inquiries you may have.
IAITO (Dulled-Edge Training Katana)- The iaito is a crucial tool in Iai once the student graduates beyond the wooden sword and saya, resembling a real sword in weight and balance, It's made of softer metals like zinc and aluminum, with a blunt edge. Unlike a sharp sword (Katana), it's not for cutting or striking; it's for safe and realistic training of traditional swordsmanship.
No Person is permitted to train with or bring a Katana (Sharp Sword) during class at the YMCA.
Students or guests may be invited to, during special private training or certain cutting events, use a sharp sword. Let your instructor know you have one and keep it ready and in good repair if the time comes.
All required equipment is available through the dojo. We suggest purchasing your equipment thru the dojo for two main reasons:
CONTINUITY - The proper equipment helps create a sense of community; think of it as being part of a team. Some equipment is easier to use for our style though it looks similar.
SAFETY – Not all equipment is made equal. Some uniforms, bokken and iaito are of lower quality or different purpose\style and pose dangers to yourself and your fellow students if used. Correct sizing also allows for safe and proper movement during the perfection of our complex techniques.
Maintaining Your Uniform & Equipment
Students’ uniforms must be in good repair at all times. You are responsible for keeping your uniform crisp and clean. If you need help with a uniform repair such as (sewing, patching, hemming, etc.) please see one of the senior students for assistance.
Your Iaito sword needs to be examined by yourself prior to each class. Examine the Mekugi (retaining peg) and the condition of your handle. Report any clicking or loose feeling immediately.
For the safety of the other students, the instructor or student in charge reserves the right to limit or prohibit the use of any equipment that he or she deems unsatisfactory or in need of repair.
Advanced Dojo Sessions and Special Events
The invitation to special events and/or join the advanced dojo is a testament to a student's dedication and progress in their swordsmanship journey. It signifies a significant milestone and opens the doors to a world of private study, providing unique advantages for further growth and development. Private study allows students to receive personalized attention and guidance, tailored specifically to their individual needs and goals. This one-on-one instruction or special event enhances the learning experience, allowing for a deeper understanding of techniques and refinement of skills.
While the advanced dojo offers invaluable opportunities for growth, it is important to acknowledge the commitment and responsibility that comes with this privilege. Students invited to the advanced dojo are expected to demonstrate not only their skill and dedication but also their understanding of the debt of “On” which is a sense of indebtedness by a student to a teacher, mentor, or colleague that is valuable beyond simple money or words. They are encouraged to approach their training with humility, respect, and a willingness to learn from both their instructors and fellow practitioners.
To maximize progress and benefit fully from the advanced dojo, it is recommended that students to dedicate a significant amount of time to their practice. This typically includes hours of practice outside of class, along with attending a set number of classes per week. The specific hours and class requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and the curriculum of the advanced dojo. Nonetheless, a strong commitment to regular and focused practice is crucial for continued advancement.
It is important to note that due to the personalized nature of the advanced dojo and the individual attention given to each student, availability is limited. This exclusivity ensures that each student receives the necessary support and guidance they require for their ongoing development. The limited availability also contributes to a tightly-knit and supportive community, fostering a conducive environment for growth and camaraderie among fellow advanced students.
The invitation to the advanced dojo represents both a recognition of a student's accomplishments and a commitment to their ongoing journey. It offers the advantages of private study, emphasizes the importance of the debt of a student, recommends a dedicated practice schedule, and highlights the limited availability that contributes to the close-knit community within the advanced dojo.
Whack-A-Friend Days • Armor & Full Contact
The first rule of Whack-a-Friend day... we only smile at whack-a-Friend days!
Imagine the excitement of letting loose in a fast and furious frenzy! It's your chance once a month to settle disputes without resorting to Google or endless discussions. How fast can you swing? Can you finally nail that Anime move you've been practicing? Perhaps you want to settle a playful marital dispute? If it's safe and everyone agrees, it's game on like Donkey Kong!
Remember, the first rule of Whack a Friend is to always smile about it! So gather your friends, get ready to don your armor, and prepare for a wild and unforgettable experience filled with laughter, camaraderie, and some seriously epic battles!
Whack-a-Friend days vary and be announced via SPOND. If you are interested please request to be added to our SPOND group HERE.
$15 person/session
Limit 6 people
NOTE:
Minors must have a completed and signed consent from a parent, NO exceptions.
All proceeds go to improving the armor, replacing equipment, and having more fun. This is not intended to be a martial arts class.
Corporate & Team Building
The invitation to participate in our corporate team building program represents a significant opportunity for your team's growth and cohesion. It signifies a commitment to enhancing teamwork, communication, and collaboration within your organization. Our tailored team building activities offer unique advantages that come with private study in a corporate setting.
In our corporate team-building events, we offer a comprehensive program that encompasses various elements to enhance team dynamics. One of the key components is an introduction to Warriors Meditation, a practice that helps participants quickly center themselves and achieve a state of mental clarity.
Once centered, participants will receive training on efficient movement techniques rooted in time-honored traditions, laws of motion, and structural principles. These techniques will enable team members to navigate their work environments with improved efficiency and effectiveness.
As participants develop a foundation in basic techniques, they will have the opportunity to work in groups, engaging in traditional swordsmanship exercises using wooden swords. This segment emphasizes the importance of distance, timing, and footwork in reading and responding to their partners' movements. By honing these skills, team members will enhance their ability to understand nonverbal cues and collaborate seamlessly.
Following a break for lunch and refreshments, the program will resume with distance and timing drills, further sharpening participants' ability to identify openings and position themselves strategically. Understanding one's own strengths and positioning is vital in any working environment, and these drills will reinforce this essential skill set.
To culminate the program, participants will have the chance to don the Bogu (Kendo Armor) and apply all the skills they have learned in a friendly combat tournament. This exciting activity brings together strategy, energy, and the culmination of their training, fostering teamwork, healthy competition, and the opportunity to put their newfound skills into action.
The cost for a full day of our team building program is $$$$. Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring water and lunch to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the day.
Through our team-building events, participants will gain valuable insights into meditation practices, efficient movement techniques, reading nonverbal cues, strategic positioning, and collaborative teamwork. These experiences will contribute to a more centered and clear-headed working environment, empowering teams to perform at their best and achieve success collectively.