The instructor at the Sevenoaks Dojo is David Heslington.

David has been training in the Bujinkan for over 17 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 other leading Japaense Shihan (master teachers) in the Bujinkan.
He trains regularly with Peter King, the senior instructor in the UK, and Stephen Boddy. He also attends seminars around the country whenever possible, to learn from other visiting teachers.

What is the training like?

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

Practice encompasses both armed and unarmed techniques. The unarmed aspect is similar to traditional jujutsu and includes striking, kicking, locking and throwing. The most commonly used weapons are 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 fall safely,
• Kihon - fundamentals,
• Followed by the particular lesson of the day, which may be based on the year's theme or a particular school, technique, idea or weapon.

Is the training suitable for me?

Training is open to all with a sincere 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.

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.

Fees and memberships

Training fee: £6.00 per class

BBMACO membership/Insurance: £10.00 per year

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