Students and enthusiasts of Karate have many reasons for their interest in this and other martial art styles. Some are drawn to the physical fitness and weight-loss aspects of training. Others seek to add discipline and self control to their lives. While still others are concerned about safety and self-defense.
Whether you are interested in our programs for mental or physical well being, Virginia Martial Arts Center offers a number of programs that will fit your developmental needs and your busy schedule as well.
Introductory Class
Our introductory class is designed to welcome and prepare any new member for their training at VMAC. This class teaches basic blocking and striking techniques, dojo etiquette, and includes a tour of the VMAC.
Karate-Do
The main program taught at VMAC is the Japanese Karate system. The style is called Motobu-Ha Shito-Ryu Karate-Do. Shito-Ryu is one of the four major Japanese Karate systems. It focuses on strong basic fundamentals, kata (forms), kumite (sparring) and self defense applications
Japanese Karate-Do, when properly taught, is a balanced system of discipline, physical education, self-defense and competitive sport. The lasting benefits of Karate training include self-discipline, respect, concentration, honor, confidence and better health, among many others
Power Kids
Our PowerKids program is for pre-schoolers age four to six years old. The classes are designed to help the students develop motor skills, focus for concentration, discipline and confidence using the techniques of traditional Karate. The PowerKid classes are designed to be fun and exciting while teaching the values of accomplishment, teamwork and trying their best.
JuJutsu
JuJutsu is the ancient way of self-defense known as “the gentle art.” The philosophy of JuJutsu is one of humane control of an opponent through the use of constraining techniques. These techniques may consist of joint locks, holds, throws and light strikes or kicks to vital areas. JuJutsu allows a person to control and subdue an adversary without causing permanent injury. Our style is called Hakko Densho Ryu, and is studied by many Law Enforcement officials, hospital workers and correction officers due to the non-violent approach to controlling an opponent
Tai Chi / Kung Fu
The art of Tai Chi originated in China many centuries ago. It is an exercise system designed to promote health and quality of life. This is achieved through slow, controlled movement, which produce muscle tone, flexibility, coordination and balance. Tai Chi has many health benefits including improved cardiovascular and circulatory system. This ancient exercise is also beneficial to today’s hectic modern society by providing a great means to relieve stress.
Kung Fu developed in China centuries ago in the Shaolin Temple. Today it is a great form of exercise incorporating soft, flowing animal style movements that can be used for self-defense.
Kendo/Iaido
Kendo (art of the sword) is the sporting aspect of training with the sword. Participants train with wooden and bamboo swords and wear protective armor for practice. The objective is to strike prescribed target areas of the armor with the bamboo sword in order to achieve victory over your opponent. This is a modern day alternative to the duels of ancient Japan. Iaido is the art of sword drawing. Originally practiced as a combative technique by the ancient Samurai warriors, it is now an art form implying serenity of spirit, control of respiration, and the sign of perfect and elegant control.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing originates from Japan from the 1950s. It focuses on fighting standing up and once a combatant has reached the ground the fight is finished. This style of martial arts is like water and you are an empty cup, which means it conforms to you. You do not conform to it. Kickboxing is practiced for a number of reasons, such as self-defense, general fitness, or as a full contact sport.
Adult Class
This class is open to all ranks with a focus on the needs of people wanting to get in shape while learning self-defense skills. This program will be a Mixed Martial Arts style class including techniques from Karate, Jiu Jitsu, Goshin Do, and other arts.
Kobudo
Kobudo means the ancient weapons developed by the farmers of Okinawa when the Samurai invaded and took away all of their normal weapons.
Class will concentrate on the basics, kata and applications of the Bo (staff), Tonfa (handle baton), Nunchaku (flail), Sai (dagger shaped truncheon), Kama (sickle), and Eku (oar).
The classes are available to Black Belt Club students and other students of green belt rank and above.