The destruction of Martial Arts in the West.

In Western Martial Art schools, there has been an explosion of two perspectives. First there is the “kids” (sometimes called “family” ) Martial Art studio – these organizations model there business based on concepts brought over from dance studio franchise industry. While dance lessons can be a wonderful activity, we believe that this is an incorrect model for Martial Arts! These studios have in many cases compromised education in order to create a business model where parents spend money on games, sleep overs, birthday parties and unfortunately on an unfocused classroom. These studios use the once prestigious rank of black belt, as a sales tool, passing the student to a new belt every three months without any real standard. In many of these programs children are being promoted to black belt without learning even basic etiquette and technique! We believe that children can and will rise to the expectation of true martial arts – however they need to learn in an environment that does not compromise the courtesy and discipline of the Martial Arts in the quest for a higher profits. Artificially passing a student from belt to belt with no real tests, not only devalues the rank received, it also destroys the culture in the school. Perhaps worst of all – since education is of little value in these programs- often adults are placed in the same classroom as children!

A real dojo isn't a gym!

Unfortunately with the explosion of UFC, K1, and other sporting events, another type of studio has risen. These places are often little more than Fight Clubs. The clientele of these gyms are very young adults. These clubs are characterized by a lack of discipline, cleanliness, and frequent injury. In these programs correct technique is sacrificed in the quest for more physical power and domination. Strategies like “ground and pound” come from this line of thinking. Mental discipline and Martial philosophy are completely ignored, and a “win at all cost” competitive atmosphere is fostered. While it’s true that much of the technique featured in Mixed Martial Arts events is valuable, these gyms have forgotten the original promise of the Gracie family with their introduction of the UFC. That promise was that one person, outsized, with even a weaker physique, could learn to defend himself through the proper use of superior skills. (See the posting from the Gracie family underneath the class schedule below)

Real Martial Arts without compromise!

At the Martial Arts Center, we believe in teaching true Martial Arts. Rank is not to be used to “sell a program” or to keep a student attending class and paying. Rank communicates the culture of a school and helps students push themselves to the highest levels. Additionally, learning and practicing proper MMA technique in a safe environment is crucial in order for a student to progress. It’s not about violence or competition, it’s about keeping yourself and your family safe. We will not guarantee you a specific rank through long-term programs such as “Black Belt Club” or “Masters Club” or "Leadership Training". In many cases these are nothing more than cleverly disguised sales tools, designed to increase bottom line profits. Our view is that these programs are not in alignment with the intention of true martial arts. We offer no guarantees; only a promise, and that promise is to teach you real martial arts to the best of our abilities, day in and day out.

Our method of teaching is in keeping with the intentions of the Masters who created the greatest Martial Arts of all time. At the Martial Arts Center every class includes a solid cardio-respiratory workout that will improve your health and endurance. Your classmates will practice by your side in a safe, supportive and serious learning environment. You will learn how to effectively defend yourself with the most advanced techniques ever created. But in our school there is truly more; you will also learn how to meditate and discipline your mind. Our unique combination of exercising the body and the mind in an "All Adult" atmosphere is the key to increased energy, confidence and concentration for a healthier and more fulfilling life.

*Students can start at any time of the year and our tuition is as low as 99.00 per month. Call 419-385-1000 to try a free class and for all the details.

Class Schedule:

Maumee and Toledo
Martial Arts Classes.

For a complete schedule

click here.

The passing of a Grand Master:

Recently the founder of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu; Gramdmaster Helio Gracie, made his transition from the body. Here is the posting sent from the Gracie organization and family. It is particularly fascinating to read the quote from one of the Master's last interviews, posted below.

On Tuesday morning (January 29, 2009) Grand Master Helio Gracie was tanning at his ranch in Brazil, and on Thursday morning at 9:15 he passed on due to natural causes. His legacy will survive forever in all members of the Gracie Family, jiu-jitsu practitioners around the world, and all those who have benefited from the revolution he began.

In his final years, the creator of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu often spoke of his satisfaction with his life’s work. He openly stated that he had accomplished everything he had set out to do, displaying his preparedness for the transition into the afterlife.

The Grand Master believed that such a transition should be seen as a positive step in one's spiritual evolution. In a recent interview he declared: “I’ve already told my sons that when I die I want there to be a party. No drinking, no debauchery.” In one of his final magazine interviews the Grand Master expresses his concern for the future of Jiu-Jitsu:

“The Jiu-Jitsu that I created was designed to give the weak ones a chance to face the heavy and strong. It was so successful that they decided to create a sportive version of it. I would like to make it clear that of course I am in favor of the sportive practice and technical refinement of all athletes, whatever their specialty may be, as well as good nutrition, sexual control, avoidance of addictions and unhealthy habits. The problem lies in the creation of a sport-oriented Jiu-Jitsu, based on rules and time limits, which benefits the heavier, stronger, and more athletic individuals. The primary objective of Jiu-Jitsu is to empower the weak who, for not having the physical attributes, are often intimidated. My Jiu-Jitsu is an art of self-defense in which rules and time limits are unacceptable. These are the reasons for which I can’t support events that reflect an anti Jiu-Jitsu.” -Grand Master Helio Gracie (October 1, 1913 – January 29, 2009)

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