The Tenkobushi Budokan's name reflects a number of different things and has many  meanings. Literally translated, tenkobushi means: Ten = Heaven [ly] (as in enlightened),  Kobushi = fist. So the name can be read as Heaven's Fist. Kobushi, using different kanji,  means "Veteran Warrior" and reflects the Chief Instructor's military and combat  experience in addition to 30 years of martial arts experience. So, Tenkobushi means  "Heavenly Warrior" as well. We use both variations of this name and though there is a  reference to heaven there is no religious affiliation applied or implied to our name or our  instruction. Budokan means "a specific place for conducting martial training". This is different from dojo which means "a place of the way" and can be attributed to any discipline and is not related to the martial arts. Click these links to read more about Saito Ninjutsu, their Family Legend and Ninjutsu History or the Frequently Asked Questions.

What makes us different?

Tenkobushi Budokan focuses on you, the student, and your development as a martial artist. Unlike other schools that may offer "unlimited" class time, we offer designated class space for you so that your time is spent in active learning. We maintain quality in your training by keeping our classes smaller and more personal. Some schools are "Black Belt Mills" who get you to sign expensive and extended contracts which guarantee you or your child a black belt or "championship" in a very short time period. At our school, advancement takes place when your comprehension of the required material is complete. Many schools claim to be the "ultimate self-defense", the most "real life system" or "used by military units", when in fact their arts do not address military or real life situations which often involve multiple enemies, tactics, and weapons.

Our Chief Instructor, Stephen T. McGovern, is a former Navy Instructor and Instructional Systems Designer. He is well educated in the most effective techniques in class room instruction, objective development and testing processes. Mr. McGovern has trained and practiced martial arts for over 30 years and is a decorated Navy Veteran. Over half of his time in the Navy was spent as an Anti-terrorism Operator/Instructor. He brings real world and military experience to your training that cannot be obtained at other schools. He knows what works and what doesn't. This art works! Additionally, our classes are broken down into specific ranking levels and age groups. Understanding the vast difference between the learning styles of children and adults, at our school adults study and train with adults; children, with children. The lessons and skill sets are presented at the comprehension and performance level of specific age groups.

Why Traditional Martial Arts Training?

Traditional martial arts afford the student a lineage of instruction that has shaped the way Warriors have conducted themselves, both on and off the battle field, for millennium. The techniques and training methods have been developed and tested over centuries and those that are not deemed as useful have been weeded out leaving only those that ensure survival in any situation.

We do not focus on Tournaments or Sparring (we do have specific drills that test a student's abilities) and we are not a Boot Camp. We focus on you, the Student. Your progress, understanding and development in mastering these arts are our primary concern.