Kaizen-Kan-Dojo
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改善館

Kaizen-Kan Dojo

Welcome to Kaizen-Kan Dojo. We are a small dojo based in Gloucester UK, dedicated to teaching traditional Japanese koryu arts. Our classes are run in a calm, relaxed atmosphere whilst retaining a level of etiquette. They are suitable for both beginners and those with previous martial artists experience. The koryu arts of Iaido, and kenjutsu are the primary forms practiced; however, we also study Iaijutsu, Bojutsu.

改善館

What does Kaizen-Kan (改善館) mean?

改

Kai 改 = Change

善

Zen 善 = Good

館

Kan 館 = Hall or Building

Kaizen is a Japanese term meaning “change for the better” or Continuous Improvement.” It is a philosophy that encourages ongoing, incremental improvements. Therefore, the meaning behind Kaizen-Kan is, the Hall of Good Change.
Kaizen Kan Dojo Sensei Mark Nind

Mark Nind

Our Instructor

Kaizen-Kan Dojo leader Mark Nind started martial Arts in 1986 at the youthful age of 10, studying Karate. In 2001, he achieved instructorship level and continued to teach Karate. In 2010 Mark found and transitioned to Iaido and has remained studying this art form since. In 2024 Mark travelled to Japan for training where he achieved the rank of Sandan (3rd Dan). It was on his return Kaizen-Kan Dojo was formed.

Kaizen-Kan is sub-Dojo of Inyoshin SMA, where Mark studies under David Jackson Sensei. David Sensei has over 50 years’ experience in martial arts. David has trained in Japan multiple times throughout the years, holding grades up to Rokudan (6th Dan). He was the first UK student in Meifu Shinkage Ryu and is branch leader, and the UK representative of the European Mugai Ryu Federation. David is very exceptional and holding Dan grades in the following styles Karate-Do, Jujutsu, Iaijutsu, Iaido, and Tai Chi Chuan.

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David Jackson Sensei (left) & Mark Nind Sensei (right)

Styles We Study

Here at Kaizen-Kan we study a variety of styles, formally known as Ryuha.
Kaizen Kan Dojo

Mugai-Ryū

Mugai-ryū, or "Outer Nothingness School," is a traditional Japanese martial art founded in 1680 by Tsuji Gettan Sukemochi. It is a form of koryū, an old school of martial arts, and is particularly known for its connection to Zen philosophy.
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Meifu Shinkage Ryu

Meifu Shinkage Ryu is a modern Japanese martial art founded in the 1970s by Chikatoshi Someya, a student of Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū. The art focuses primarily on shurikenjutsu but also includes fundo kusarijutsu and shōkenjutsu (close-quarters combat with a shuriken).
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Kaizen Kan Dojo

Genko Nito Ryu

Genko Nito Ryu is a modern martial art that focuses on fighting with two swords, one long (katana) and one short (wakizashi). It was developed by Niina Toyoaki Soke, who used his extensive experience with various martial arts, including Yamaguchi-ryu and Mugai-ryu, to create the style.
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Iaido

Iaido is a modern Japanese martial art that focuses on the smooth and controlled movements of drawing a Japanese sword (katana) from its scabbard, striking an imaginary opponent, shaking the blood from the blade, and returning the sword to its scabbard.

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Club Standards

At Kaizen-Kan, we prioritise a safe and respectful environment. All students are expected to follow health, safety, and safeguarding guidelines. We also believe in mutual respect, and all members should be polite and courteous to their Sensei and fellow students.

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改善館
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