Lakewood Budo Kai Long Beach Martial Arts School Traditions

History
Founded in 1979, our Lakewood Budo Kai martial arts school has offered Jujitsu, Karate, and Women's Self Defense classes in the Long Beach area for over 30 years. Lakewood Budo Kai is a traditional martial arts school providing students of all skill levels the opportunity to benefit from our training. For more information, please see our dojo history.

Traditions
Our school, Lakewood Budo Kai, uses a traditional approach to the martial arts that teaches you not just physical self defense techniques, but also the traditions and codes of honor that have been passed down from instructor to student for thousands of years.

Etiquette and Dojo Courtesy - Samurai warriors showed dedication by following basic procedures and proper etiquette.
Protocol - the formal code of conduct for the martial arts practitioner when interacting with and showing respect to high ranking visitors and guest instructors.
Vision, Mission, and Values - Our purpose, priorities, how we work together, and positive impact we have on students.

Head Instructor
Our head instructor, Jim Kelton, began his martial arts training in 1969. He was promoted to black belt in 1978 and opened our martial arts school in 1979 where he continues to teach on a regular basis. Mr. Kelton holds black belts in four martial arts:

Karate - Shichidan 7th degree black belt in Shorin Ryu Karate
Jujitsu - Rokudan 6th degree black belt in Danzan Ryu Jujitsu
Judo - Sandan 3rd degree black belt in Kodenkan Judo
Sword - Nidan 2nd degree black belt in Iai sword drawing

Awards and Certifications
Throughout his 40 year career, Mr. Kelton has received numerous awards and certifications including:

Kodenkan Judo Gold Life Member from the United States Judo Association
Kansetsu Waza joint locking techniques from the Southern California Jujitsu Association
Karate Kobudo weapons training in the art of sword drawing from the Japan Karate Federation
Monadnock persuader police baton certification from Westchester Jujitsu Kai
Lamplighter Award from Shoshin Ryu Yudanshakai martial arts association

What is the meaning of Lakewood Budo Kai?
Lakewood Budo Kai means "The Lakewood school of stopping conflict". Lakewood - our school (dojo) was initially founded in Lakewood California. So the use of the name Lakewood gives heritage to the initial roots of the dojo. Lakewood also has a more current meaning as our dojo is close to Lakewood Blvd in Long Beach, California. Budo - Budo is often translated as "the Way of the Warrior", or "martial way", and may be interpreted as a way of stopping conflict. Kai - means school. Please see our Long Beach Class Schedule for dates, times, fees, and special offers.

Self Defense Classes
We specialize in Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate, Japanese Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, and women's self defense. Our martial arts classes are held in Long Beach, CA. Our school has provided martial arts self defense training and instruction for over 30 years and our students come from all over Los Angeles and Orange County.

Links: | Schedule and Fees | Location and Map |