Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the differences between Aikido, Jujitsu, and Judo?

A: Because Yoseikan was developed by masters of these arts, it is sometimes helpful to differentiate between the arts that make up the core of Yoseikan Budo. Aikido is characterized by flowing circular movement that maximizes use of the attacker's momentum to break their balance allowing for the most efficient use of technique to defeat them. Judo is more concerned with the proper application of leverage to throw a fully resisting opponent. Jujitsu employs techniques that are found in both arts but takes a shorter more direct approach than similar Aikido techniques, using joint pain to force compliance and more striking than is typically found in either Aikido or Judo.

Q: Is Yoseikan Budo just a collection of techniques taken from other martial arts?

A: No, while developed by highly ranked masters of various martial arts Yoseikan Budo is a systematic approach to martial arts that uses a unique set of core principles to a link variety of skill sets ranging from striking to takedowns and even weapons. So while some techniques may seem to be "borrowed" from other arts it is the method of applying those techniques that is unique to Yoseikan.

Q: What are the differences between the Yoseikan Budo practiced by Master Minoru Mochizuki and his son Master Hiroo Mochizuki?

A: While all of the techniques taught by Master Minoru are present in his son's interpretation of Yoseikan, there is a distinct difference in the flavor of the younger Mochizuki's art. Master Hiroo has taken his father's art and evolved it to be more effective against modern opponents. With his expertise in striking arts such as Karate and Boxing, Master Hiroo has incorporated much more modern striking into the art and found a methodology that makes it easier to teach what seems to be an impossibly broad curriculum that cover all ranges of combat. Master Hiroo has decidedly fulfilled his father's desire to make Yoseikan a art that teaches all of the skills needed for the effective practice of Budo.

Q: Why are there no colored belts in Yoseikan Budo?

A: Master Hiroo Mochizuki decided that all practitioners of Yoseikan Budo should wear the same uniform without the common designation of rank found in most martial arts. This was to serve as reminder that all people, regardless of rank have equal value, and that everyone can serve as both student and teacher.

Q: How long does it take to achieve the rank of black belt in Yoseikan Budo?

A: With regular class attendance and regular participation at national or international clinics it typically takes somewhere between five and six years to obtain the rank of shodan (first degree black belt) in Yoseikan Budo.

Q: Are there competitions or tournaments in Yoseikan Budo?

A: While there are currently no competitions or tournaments being held in the United States, the Yoseikan World Federation holds regular competitions in a variety of categories including empty handed and weapon sparring.

Q: Is there a religious significance to the opening and closing ceremonies in a traditional class?

A: It is important to remember that the opening and closing ceremonies observed are lifted from an Eastern culture where bowing is used not as a sign of worship but both as a greeting and a show of respect. In traditional Yoseikan classes both the students and the teachers bow to one another at the beginning and end of class after a brief period of meditation. This meditation is in place to remind the participants to put everything else that has happened throughout the day aside to benefit as much as possible from training and to be mindful of their practice partner's safety, Bowing shows respect to both the teacher for sharing his or her knowledge with the student and to the student for being a willing vessel for that knowledge. There is no religious meaning to these ceremonies and students that have further questions or concerns about these matters should discuss them with the head instructor.

Q: Why are there non-black belt members that are listed as instructors at North Alabama Yoseikan?

A: Because of the length of time that obtaining a black belt in Yoseikan Budo requires, the United States Yoseikan Budo Association recognizes certain individuals as instructors after certain criteria have been met.

Q: Do I need to be in particularly good shape in order to attend classes.

A: While a certain basic level of fitness is necessary to avoid injury, being in the best of shape is not necessary to begin your training. Diligent students can expect a certain level of improved fitness simply from applying themselves to their practice.

Q: How often are students eligible for belt exams?

A: A student's first belt exam is usually conducted after they have attended approximately twenty workouts. Understandably, further examinations require a larger commitment of time. It is important to note that some students progress more rapidly than others and that patience is required to allow one's technique to improve naturally.

Q: Do I have to have a uniform(gi) to attend classes?

A: A gi is not required to attend classes, although it is strongly encouraged to allow for better freedom of movement. A uniform is only required for students at the first rank exam and beyond.

Q: What is the age range for classes?

A: Due to the dangers involved in applying joint locking techniques on smaller children, North Alabama Yoseikan requires students to be at least fifteen years of age. If demand is sufficient a children's class with a modified curriculum is a possibility.

Q: What are the USYBA and YWF and why do I have to pay registration dues for these organizations?

A: The USYBA and the YWF are the national and international organizations that oversee the practice and promotion of Yoseikan Budo. These organizations not only legitimize the participants rank, they also provide technical support and upper level training to both senior and junior level students alike. The registration fees and annual dues paid to these organizations help ensure that such training remains not only available but affordable.

Q: Is previous martial arts experience necessary or preferred as a beginning student?

A: Not at all. In fact, previous martial arts training can be both a benefit and a hindrance for a beginner. It is important to have a beginner's mind no matter what level of skill a student achieves .