Frequently Asked Questions

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I HAVE NO MARTIAL ARTS EXPERIENCE. CAN I START?

Yes. We welcome beginners with no previous martial arts experience. Training begins with the fundamentals and develops progressively at a pace suitable for each student.

WHAT IS THE MINIMUM STARTING AGE?

As we are an adult dōjō, students should generally be at least 18 years old.

I AM OVER 60. CAN I START TRAINING?

Yes. Age is not a barrier to beginning training. Students are encouraged to train at their own pace and develop according to their own abilities.

I AM NOT VERY FIT. IS THAT OKAY?

Yes. You do not need to be highly fit to begin training. As a beginner, your training will be adjusted to a level you can manage, and regular practice will naturally improve your fitness and physical ability.

I AM NOT VERY FLEXIBLE. IS THAT OKAY?

Yes. Flexibility is not a requirement for starting training. We can provide guidance and exercises to help improve mobility and flexibility over time.

IS THE TRAINING SUITABLE FOR WOMEN?

Yes. Women have always been part of the worldwide Bujinkan community, and training is based on developing skill through movement, timing, balance, awareness, and adaptability rather than physical strength alone. Beginners are welcomed and encouraged to progress at a pace that suits their own abilities.

ARE THERE COMPETITIONS OR SPARRING?

No. The Bujinkan does not use competitions or sporting matches as part of its training. Instead, students practise techniques and principles repeatedly in order to develop natural movement, timing, awareness, and the ability to respond appropriately to changing situations.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

When beginning, you do not need any special equipment. Comfortable training clothes are sufficient, although a uniform from another martial art may also be worn.

Once you decide to continue training, you will need a black martial arts uniform (keikogi). Students are also encouraged to eventually obtain their own training weapons for personal practice, although equipment is available to borrow at the dōjō.

We do not sell uniforms or equipment, but we can recommend suppliers.

CAN I TRAIN WITH OTHER MARTIAL ARTS GROUPS?

Yes. We recognise the value of studying different martial arts and you are welcome to continue training with other groups.

CAN I TRAIN AT ANOTHER BUJINKAN DŌJŌ?

Yes. We welcome visitors from other Bujinkan dōjō, including practitioners travelling from interstate or overseas.

CAN I KEEP THE DAN OR KYU RANK I HAVE FROM ANOTHER DŌJŌ?

Yes. Previous Bujinkan rank is recognised. Please let us know your training history when making an enquiry.

IS THERE ANY DISTANCE LEARNING?

No. Bujinkan training relies on direct instruction and personal practice with a teacher and training partners. If required, we may be able to recommend another dōjō closer to you.

I CAN’T MAKE IT TO SATURDAY MORNING CLASSES. ARE THERE OTHER TRAINING OPTIONS?

For students who are unable to attend Saturday morning training, or who would like additional practice during the week, training is also available at our affiliated dōjō:

Bujinkan Kobudō Dōjō Ipswich
Instructor: Nathan Anning
Location: Karana Downs Scout Den
Training times: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Email: bujinkanipswich@gmail.com

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM TRAINING?

Training in the Bujinkan is a long-term study rather than a quick course or fitness program. Students learn through regular practice, repetition, and guidance from the instructor and training partners.

While the techniques of traditional martial arts are an important part of training, the deeper purpose is to develop better movement, awareness, confidence, discipline, and an understanding of the principles that have been passed down through the Bujinkan traditions.