The Sensei’s Part of the Social Contract

What can a sensei promise their students?

It might sound something like this:

As the teacher, I agree to give you, the student, the absolute best training opportunity I can give you, be it in judo, jujutsu, or iaido. I promise to offer the complete martial art I know, including all its best aspects: physical techniques, theories of physical power, mental strategies, cultural aspects, and any spiritual benefits that are part of the art. I promise not to deceive you with martial arts mumbo-jumbo, and I promise not to falsely build up your self-esteem without providing any basis in real martial arts skill. I promise not to ask you to pay absurd dues rates, but will ask you to pay a fair rate in keeping with the expenses of the dojo and my need to earn a modest living. I won't give you a black belt unless you deserve it, but at the same time, I won't unnecessarily prolong your journey to black belt by making the standards impossible. I will try my best to help you develop—mind, body, and spirit—so that you can excel in the dojo and in life. 

Learn about the student’s part in the social contract.

Join a Judo, Aikido, Jujutsu, Iaido, and Japanese Karate Association

Want to be a part of an international budo community?

When you join the Shudokan Martial Arts Association, you can belong to judo, aikido, iaido, jujutsu, and karate divisions, each with their own division leader and prominent members to connect with.

If you want to join a Japanese karate association, call SMAA at 734-720-0330 or fill out our contact form.