Frequently Asked Questions
How much do classes cost? What can I expect during a typical class? Do I need to sign a contract? What shoes do I wear? I will try to answer all the questions you may have for us here. If you have any others, please don't be afraid to reach out and ask them!
General Information
What should I wear to my first class?
Comfortable clothing! You will be moving around a lot, and freedom of movement is essential. You do not have to wear a formal Gi if you have one. Weather appropriate clothing is fine to start out!
How much do classes cost?
Classes are $10 each per person. I do not require anyone to pay a monthly subscription. As life can happen, and you do not have to pay for classes you are unable to attend! Your first class is free!
Where do classes take place?
We train outdoors as a way to promote a healthy training environment. We have had to move locations to Lake Louise Park, North of Asheville in Weaverville, due to Hurricane Helene. We are currently looking for a more centrally located area in the meantime.
What is Bujinkan?
The Bujinkan is an organization of nine different Ryu-ha or schools of martial art. All nine are what is called a koryu style, which means they have been tested in real combat. Check out our About the Bujinkan page!
Class Structure and Content
What can I expect in a typical class?
We start out classes by going over out basics. Basic movements such as rolling or jumping, basic forms, or general concepts. The second half of class if going over a particular Ryu-ha or weapon, depending on the class.
How are the classes structured for beginners?
For your early classes, I focus on economy of movement for you, making sure you are moving with your whole body and not just an arm or leg. I may show a basic movement two or three different ways to try and convey how you should be moving.
What advanced techniques are taught
All students, no matter the skill level, are learning the same techniques at the same time. Beginning students have a focus on correct form and body movements while advanced students are focusing on competency and freedom of movement within the technique.
Enrollment and Requirements
How do I enroll in classes?
Come to class! We will talk about what is going on in current classes, and you will fill out some paperwork. If needed, we will go over any past injuries or limitations that you may have and discuss variations for you to be successful
Do I need to sign a contract?
No! No contracts or monthly subscriptions! We believe that life happens to the best of us, and we sometimes can't make it to class. Classes are paid each, so you do not pay for classes you don't attend.
Are there any age or physical restrictions?
Yes, kind of. The techniques being shown are real combative techniques that have seen and been tested in real combat. It is inherently dangerous and meant for mature adults. Younger ages, generally 15 to 16 and up, are allowed to attend but parent supervision or attendance is suggested. For physical limitations, as long as you can move freely, there are very little that would prohibit training. Even if you have missing limbs or are wheelchair bound, techniques can be adjusted for you.
Equipment and Gear
Do I need to buy any special equipment?
The short answer is no, we usually have enough extra equipment for everyone to participate in. However, having your own equipment will help you practice at home, and get you comfortable using the same size and weight tools. Check out our What to Expect Page here!
Where can I purchase equipment or training gear?
If you would like to get your own equipment, we can discuss where the best place to get them would be for your current level. I do not expect someone who has just started their martial arts journey to commit to buying hundreds of dollars worth of tools, and will advise you to get what you can when you can.
What safety measures are in place during training?
Training is done at a slow pace where any contact and level of contact is done at your comfort level. Injuries rarely ever occur during training, but they unfortunately do happen from time to time, as this is an inherently dangerous hobby. If you have any previous injuries or limitations, please let us know so we can keep everyone safe.
About the Dojo
Who is the instructor, and what are their qualifications?
Our classes are lead and taught by the lead instructor Owen Hempton. Owen is a Rokku-Dan, or 6th degree black belt, and has been training since 2006. He received his Go-Dan, or 5th degree black belt, test in 2021 and became a licensed instructor through the Hombu, or headquarters, Dojo in Japan. Check out Our Instructors Page here!
Do you offer private lessons or workshops?
Several students of the dojo live in South Carolina and cannot regularly attend classes. Once a month we travel down to South Carolina and put on a small workshop with a different subject each month. Private lessons can be offered upon request as long as there are no schedule conflicts. To ask about classes, regular or private, head over to our Class Schedule Page here and ask!
How can I contact the Dojo for more information?
You can contact us through this website using the contact form on several pages, or email us at info@ashevillebujinkan.com ! We also have Facebook page and will have an Instagram and Bluesky page open soon! We hope to hear from you!