1. Why did you decide to join the online lessons?

I was looking for an authentic Koryu, with solid lineage, and a way that I could train with the teacher every week.

2. What changed before and after you joined?

Before I started training I had a long history in Martial Arts, teaching Okinawan Karate-Do for over 27 years in our Dojo. I had a 6th Dan in Karate, a 2nd Dan in Yoshinkan Aikido, and had trained in Iaido for several years (Aikikai & Yagyu Shinkage Ryu). I also helped shape the Kinetic Fighting program of the Australian Military for a civilian not-for-profit initiative of self defence for domestic and occupational violence here in Australia.

At 59, I was very keen to start training under a great teacher again, as my main teacher had passed away. Since starting at Asayama Ichiden Ryu, I immediately recognised the skill of Seki Sensei, and his traditional focus. The online format works with my busy schedule… Midnight training here in Australia! But it has reignited my passion for the traditional martial arts of Japan, and I am enjoying it immensely.

3. What is the best part about joining the training/community?

It is the best online training experience I have encountered, allowing for correction of technique, but maintaining the traditional training ethos and style that I am used to from training in Japan. I thoroughly recommend the method.

4. What future goals would you like to achieve through the training?

I find this to be a perfect training form for people of my age, so it will become regular training for me. Both online and in my home Dojo throughout the week. The archive videos also help with the ability to take extra classes by just playing an archive video in my home dojo and training along with it! I would like to include the Asayama Ichiden Ryu program to my Dojo in Australia when appropriate. It is a perfect fit with our other traditional arts. I would also like to host Seki Sensei on an Australian visit at some time in the future.