History
Zen Do Kai is a style that was founded in 1970. It has developed over the past four decades, evolving by adding the principles of many martial arts disciplines with the strong fighting tradition that it has always maintained.
The style’s foundations were originally based on the GOJO RYU style of Karate. Through a keen interest in the competitive aspect of martial arts, and to examine fighting skills and training practices that could enhance the practical abilities of the Zen Do Kai students, Bob Jones introduced boxing and kick boxing techniques into the curriculum in the 1970,s and later after experiencing Muay Thai Boxing in Thailand these techniques were also introduced in the 1980’s. The 1990’s saw many techniques added from the sports of Wrestling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The evolution continued into the 21 century with the introduction of the weaponry skills of the Philippine Martial Arts of Arnis.
Soke Bob Jones describes the style most aptly by referring to it as a 'Purist' system. He means that Zen Do Kai is not one style but all styles. The translation for Zen Do Kai is "The Best of Everything in Progression". This means that Zen Do Kai is a dynamic system, constantly searching for ways of improvement and truth in the martial arts.
Classes
Today Zen Do Kai offers a comprehensive martial arts training syllabus that focuses on modern practices with traditional values.
The style continues to develop and enhance a diversity of skills including:
- Punching techniques
- Kicking techniques
- Throwing techniques
- Grappling techniques
- Locking and holding techniques
- Pressure point technique
- Weapons Training
Zen Do Kai classes are structured by variety. There are many aspects of training in this style. Therefore Students are able to work and advance at their own pace and are always encouraged to strive to achieve their personal best.
Classes usually involve a warm up and stretching, technique and skills development, partner and pad training self-defence techniques and Group theory (forms and drills), as well as some light sparring and grappling sessions.
Normally the first two gradings are conducted in the comfort of the Student’s own Dojo. After the grade of Orange Belt has been achieved the gradings are conducted at a neutral venue where all the Bob Jones Martial Arts Students come together to be tested by other qualified Instructors. This ensures that a consistent standard is achieved and puts additional pressure on the student because of the unfamiliar environment.
Our Goal is to develop a student who can set a clearly defined goal, develop a skill set that is assessed by impartial instructors and who can perform their skills under pressure. All of these skills are essential to their success outside of Martial Arts in their everyday lives. |
