The World According to Renshi

Start reading

Martial Musings…

I didn’t start my structured martial arts journey until I was 34 years old.  Luckily, I found an incredible dojo in Findlay, Ohio – The Academy of Martial Arts Studies where the primary focus was on Goju Ryu karate.  You may be familiar with this as the karate taught by Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid.  I supplemented classes with private lessons with Hanshi Kevin Cullen where we focused on qi, fighting sticks, movement and philosophy.  From there (after a long hiatus because of fatherhood, work and life, I became fully immersed  in the study of not only Goju Ryu but also Qi Gung, TaiChi, Baqua, To Shin Do (Ninja arts) and Toyama Ryu (Japanese Military Sword.)  I have attained the rank of 5th degree black belt in Goju Ryu karate and am working on attaining my 1st degree black belt in Toyama Ryu.  Because of my expanded journey I was awarded Renshi certification as a master teacher.

I will share my musings regarding martial arts over the course of this adventure.

Blog

Training

A glossy, deep-mahogany drum resting on a wooden studio floor, its chrome hardware gleaming subtly, with a thin silver cross pendant delicately placed atop the drumhead. Nearby, a simple open journal with neat, handwritten lines lies angled toward the viewer, and a smooth, polished stone engraved with the word “Faith” sits on its corner. Overhead, soft, warm studio lighting creates a halo-like glow on the drum surface and gentle reflections on the metal rims. The background fades into a tasteful, dark blur, suggesting a music studio. Shot from a low, close perspective with shallow depth of field in photographic realism, the mood is contemplative yet creative, symbolizing the harmony of God, rhythm, and personal reflection.

One-on-one martial arts coaching integrating biblical wisdom, precise technique, and mindset training for everyday battles.

A carefully arranged still life featuring a pristine white karate gi folded with crisp precision, a black belt coiled on top, and a small, weathered leather-bound devotional book resting beside them. The ensemble sits on a tatami-style mat with subtle woven texture. Behind, a sleek black acoustic guitar case leans against a muted gray wall, softly blurred. Cool, diffused morning light enters from an unseen window, creating gentle highlights on the fabric and book edges while leaving soft shadows. Captured from a slightly elevated angle in sharp photographic realism, the composition uses the rule of thirds to balance serenity and discipline, conveying a quiet, professional atmosphere that blends faith, martial arts, and music.

Weekend intensives combining scripture, kata, sparring, and live music to refresh body, soul, and spirit.

Upcoming Training

09-18-25

Dojo Chapel

Dallas, TX

Save seat

09-23-25

Spirit Dojo

Denver, CO

Join seminar

09-28-25

Faith Gym

Phoenix, AZ

Details here

09-20-25

Warrior Church

Toronto, ON

Register online

09-24-25

Harmony Hall

Tinley Park IL

Reserve spot

09-30-25

Covenant Dojo

Hartford, CT

Enroll now

09-21-25

City Sanctuary

Ottawa, ON

View details

09-27-25

Guardian Gym

Hershey, PA

Sign up

10-01-25

Northlight Dojo

Bangor, ME

Learn more