Real martial arts for kids, teens and adults. Focus, discipline and self-defense you can actually use, taught the traditional way with a modern edge.
Every student walks in with a reason. Pick yours and see how we help.
Your child struggles to focus, melts down when things get hard, or gets pushed around by other kids.
Left alone, it shows up in grades, friendships and self-worth. Another season of team sports won't teach them how to handle it.
Structured classes where kids earn every belt, practice respect every session, and learn to stand tall and use their words before anything else. Parents see the change at home.
Work stress, a gym routine you keep quitting, and a nagging feeling you couldn't protect yourself or your family.
Most adults never start because they're worried about being too old, too out of shape, or getting hurt by someone half their age.
Traditional Japanese jujutsu taught step by step, with control instead of ego. You'll get fitter, calmer and capable, at your own pace, alongside adults like you.
Teaching in Abingdon
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"A seven-year-old doesn't quit their way to discipline. We build it together."
Owner and Master Instructor. Godan (5th-degree black belt) and Bushi (“Martial Expert,” the first level of mastership) in the Shisenkan Kobudo Federation. Trains directly under Kancho Ron Kosen, including regular training in Japan. That traditional lineage shapes every class, alongside practical modern self-defense.
Today Sensei Luis teaches the adult jujutsu class and the leadership program, and leads weekly training for every instructor on our team.
Most of our instructors came up through Empire Dojo, and every one trains weekly with Sensei Luis, so every class is held to the same standard.
Training since age nine and assisting in classes since twelve, Athena is a direct student of Sensei Luis and has trained in Japan with the Kancho of the Shisenkan Kobudo Federation. Precise, energetic and nurturing, she connects with kids on a profound level.
A 4th Degree Black Belt working toward his 5th degree this year, Anthony has been training since age 13. Grappling and sparring are his specialty, and he is a true master of both. He brings that grappling and sparring expertise to every class he teaches.
Training since age six, Sofia earned her adult black belt in 2025 at just 14. She works primarily with the kids' classes and assists in adult sessions. Her philosophy: "Have fun while training and don't give up."
A direct student of Sensei Luis, Jenna specializes in the youth programs and is exceptionally great with beginners. Calm, focused and motivating, she creates a space where kids feel safe to learn and make mistakes: "Let's figure it out together."
“My very sweet and kind daughter has found her strength and a level confidence only a challenge like this could uncover. My extremely tough (and sometimes stubborn) son has found an outlet and is understanding the importance of patience and humility.”
“The instructors balance discipline with fun, keeping classes well-structured and engaging. … We’ve seen such a positive impact on his confidence, focus, and overall development.”
“He took a trial class and he absolutely loved it. … All of the teachers are great at keeping the children focused for class. Everyone treats you like family and is very welcoming.”
Fill out the form. We'll call or text to find a time that works.
A free evaluation class. We learn your goals and match you to the right program.
Small classes, a clear belt path, and progress you can see in weeks.
Not all martial arts train the same way. Taekwondo is often competition-oriented, BJJ is often ground-focused. Traditional Japanese jujutsu connects every range: striking, throws, grappling, breakfalls and weapons.
| Japanese Jujutsu | Taekwondo | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | Karate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Practical self-defense | ✓ | — | Varies | — |
| Striking | ✓ | ✓ | — | ✓ |
| Grappling & ground control | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Throws & takedowns | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Breakfalls (falling safely) | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Locks, escapes & restraint | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Standing to the ground | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Traditional weapons | ✓ | — | — | ✓ |
| Weapons-defense concepts | ✓ | — | — | ✓ |
| History & traditions | ✓ | — | — | ✓ |
| Sparring / live partner practice | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tournament focus | — | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
✓ = commonly part of the art's broader curriculum; — = not usually core. Every school varies, so ask what beginners practice, how much is live partner work, and what safety rules are used.
Listening, coordination and confidence through fun, structured drills built for little ones.
02Focus, respect and anti-bullying skills with a clear belt path that rewards effort.
03Real self-defense, discipline and leadership for the years when it matters most.
04Authentic jujutsu and kobudo for adults of any fitness level. Get fit, focused and capable.
05Practical safety and awareness workshops for your team, on-site or at the dojo.
Students bring a friend to class for free. Not a student yet? Book a free class and join the fun.
Book a free classDetails and sign-up through the dojo.
Contact the dojo
For current students. Details are emailed to families.
Yes. Your first visit is a free evaluation class. No obligation to sign anything.
Classes are usually 15 or fewer, and our instructors are used to first-day nerves. Most shy kids are smiling by the end of class.
Absolutely. Most adults start exactly there. Training is progressive and you go at your own pace.
Safety and control come first. Techniques are taught step by step with cooperative partners.
Most arts focus on one range. Taekwondo centers on kicks and competition, BJJ on the ground, and karate on striking and forms. Japanese jujutsu trains the whole picture: practical self-defense, striking, throws, breakfalls, joint locks and escapes, ground control, and traditional weapons, with etiquette and history built into every class. See the comparison above.
It depends on the program that fits your goals. We'll go over options in person after your free evaluation class.
Every student hits a wall. Pushing through it with support is where real discipline and confidence are built, and we partner with parents to get there.
One free evaluation class. Meet the sensei, feel the energy, and see if Empire Dojo fits you or your child.