History of Excellence
In the heart of Golden Grove, Zen Do Kai has etched its legacy as a beacon of martial arts excellence. Originating from the visionary mind of Bob Jones, our journey began on June 1, 1970, when the first dojo opened its doors on Elizabeth St., Melbourne. What started as a response to the security industry's needs soon burgeoned into a phenomenon, fueled by the popularity of Bruce Lee's cinematic prowess. As the demand soared, Zen Do Kai evolved, embracing influences from diverse martial arts disciplines worldwide.
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Over the last five decades, Zen Do Kai has stood as a testament to adaptability, guided by an unwavering thirst for knowledge and a commitment to practicality. Represented globally through Bob Jones Clubs (BJC), we've shaped the martial arts landscape, transcending boundaries and fostering a community of passionate practitioners.
Masters of the Craft
In the annals of Australian martial arts, three luminaries stand tall as the architects of Zen Do Kai, each contributing a unique essence to this dynamic martial arts phenomenon.
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Bob Jones etched the inaugural strokes of Zen Do Kai's legacy in 1970. Born with an irrepressible spirit in the heart of Australia, Bob's journey into the world of martial arts commenced when he founded Zen Do Kai, earning a ninth-degree black belt. Beyond the dojo, he introduced kickboxing to Australia, becoming a living legend in global martial arts.
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Richard Norton stands as a foundational pillar beside Bob Jones. His background deeply rooted in traditional martial arts, Richard's journey mirrors the ethos of Zen Do Kai - a continuous quest for knowledge and mastery. A 10th-degree black belt, his fame extends to Hollywood, where he is renowned as an actor and stuntman.
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Billie Manne adds a unique dimension to Zen Do Kai. A 10th-degree black belt, Billie brought an artistic flair to the creation of Zen Do Kai. His mastery of various martial arts disciplines, coupled with a deep understanding of self-defence, has been instrumental in shaping the comprehensive and effective system that Zen Do Kai is today.
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Together, these three visionaries form the founding trinity that has left an indelible mark on Australian martial arts, embodying the fusion of martial prowess and artistic expression.
Dojo etiquette
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Dojo means “A Sacred Place” – treat it as such
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Do not wear shoes on the dojo training area
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No Drugs, cigarettes or alcohol in the dojo
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Do not enter a class late or leave early without acknowledgment of the highest rank instructor in the class
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No swearing or actions or disrespect or breaching of rules
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Always train with “true” attitude of Bushido
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Never abuse fighting skills, always fight defensively and use these skills always to help lower ranks
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Dojo etiquette is to be always clean in body and appearance
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Bow upon entering or leaving the training area of the dojo
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Never walk in front of your seniors
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Always address you seniors by their proper titles
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When placing or removing your belt, students should kneel on their right knee when doing so
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Students are to line up in order of rank from left(highest rank) to right (lowest rank), standing opposite the instructor (rank is indicated by belt colour and seniority of training time).
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Black belts are to line up in order of rank with the highest ranked instructor in the centre, then alternating order of rank with the second highest rank to the right, the third highest rank to the left and so on.
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Within the black belt hierarchy, grade (Dan) ranking primarily designates seniority. However, where two black belts are of the same rank, the one with the higher teaching title is considered the higher rank
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Higher rank coloured belts should endeavour to set good a example for lower ranked students and be responsible for the behaviour and conduct of lower ranked students
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If a student must adjust their Gi (uniform) during training, they must wait until the end of the activity in progress then turn to the back of the class prior to adjusting their Gi or belt.
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During training, there should be no idle talking between students
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Students and black belts are not permitted to use training equipment without first obtaining permission from the instructor
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All students are to participate in any competition in strict accordance with the competition rules and in the spirit of good sportsmanship
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During training all students should be aware that the level of intensity of their training is at an appropriate level when partnered up with another student, taking into consideration the other students age, weight & sex
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Zen Do Kai tradition encourages that new black belts wear their belts continuously for at least 24 hours after successfully attaining their Sho Dan Ho (probationary 1st Degree) grading
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When it comes to dojo financial problems, Samurai would have discussions but would never develop into arguing on such matters