What people have to say about us...
Taeko has helped me in more ways than the physical fitness side. Although,
this has improved 100% I feel mentally better about getting up and facing
each day. I recently got coaxed into going down to Fitness First in Bond St.
The guy was just a talking salesman and I had no intention to join, and just
kept saying all these wonderful things about Taeko and that I would not
spend my money on a gym when I enjoy my Taeko so much. In the end he said
to me, "well it sounds like I can't compete with this Taeko". He certainly couldn't.
Rhonda C, Drummoyne
Trust me even after nearly 3 years I still love it and one of the decisions I'll make when house-buying is - can I still get to Taeko?. I was over 73kgs when I started and have now managed to maintain 64kgs for the last 2years (I don't starve myself you know I love a good party) but it's all down to Taeko.
Hopefully the house-hunting won't interfere too much with my newly found love of the Sat morning burn.
Rachael F, Balmain
Shinbudo has changed my life! Yes, its a bold statement but its absolutely
true.
I started off on a 6 week bootcamp course. I'd always fancied having ago at
martial arts but never actually worked up the courage. I was too cool.
Bootcamp was low risk. It had an end date so I didn't have to commit other
than 6 weeks if i didn't like it. The suit (gi) felt funny at first, the
dojo (training room) had weird special rules, but I have to say i was hooked
from day one. Andrew Dickensons teaching method grabbed my attention and
made me focus like I never thought possible. Shinbudo is incredibly
physical; it makes you strong and fit. You get to practice REAL self defence
skills, hit pads, punch and kick. But its not about that, its much more, its
about whats inside you. Its about controlling yourself, your thoughts, your
emotions, how you judge to or react to a situation. Its a journey of
discovery and I'm only at the very beginning.............
I would like to take this opportunity to Thank You and your team, in
particular May-Lai, Norm and Sally, who started me off in the Bootcamp. The
bootcamp was a really nice gentle introduction. The trainers treated me with
care and respect. If it had been any other way I'm not sure I would have
been able to continue. I am not exaggerating, Shinbudo really has changed my
life. I was fairly damaged from my assault experience when I started. My
confidence was pretty low, my coping skills in particular with my emotions
was extremely low. I lacked self esteem (not previously a problem). I was
angry at the world (I can admit that now). I don't have to tell you this, I
just thought it would be nice to let you know how much I appreciate my
experience with the fightclub team. You guys have helped me more than you
could ever know.
Many Thanks.
Rachael C, Crowsnest
Silver Medalist. World Sports Ju Jitsu Championships. Brazil 2004
Firstly a big Thank you to you for the opportunity to take part in something so intense as the world champs. I learnt so much it would take a lot of
pages to explain how it was from a raw recruits perspective.
An even bigger Thanks for the world class training. I knew you were pushing
us hard and I felt like I was pushing myself hard, but you never really know
where you are untill you're in the thick of it. I guess we have proof now
that fightclub really does have fantastic training which gives real results.
Like I said it would take a long time to explain everything that happened
and how I feel about the whole experience. But please accept my heartfelt
thanks for taking me on a journey I never dreamed possible.
Rachael C, Crowsnest
Silver Medalist. World Sports Ju Jitsu Championships. Brazil 2004
Shinbudo has changed my life! Yes, its a bold statement but its absolutely
true.
I started off on a 6 week bootcamp course. I'd always fancied having a go at
martial arts but never actually worked up the courage. I was too cool.
Bootcamp was low risk. It had an end date so I didn't have to commit other
than 6 weeks if i didn't like it. The suit (gi) felt funny at first, the
dojo (training room) had weird special rules, but I have to say i was hooked
from day one. Andrew Dickinson's teaching method grabbed my attention and
made me focus like I never thought possible. Shinbudo is incredibly
physical; it makes you strong and fit. You get to practice REAL self defence
skills, hit pads, punch and kick. But its not about that, its much more, its
about whats inside you. Its about controlling yourself, your thoughts, your
emotions, how you judge to or react to a situation. Its a journey of
discovery and I'm only at the very beginning.
Peter B, Cremorne
The Boot Camp program was a really good introduction to martial arts.
Everything was explained from the techniques to the traditions of martial
arts which was excellent. I felt that all of the coloured belts were really
helpful and supportive. Hopefully I will never have the need to defend
myself, but after attending Boot Camp and continuing my training, I feel a
little more confident that I could get out of a situation should I need to.
Kate D, Concord
Thanks for reminding me of how possible it is to see oneself in a different
light. After making the seemingly endless journeys to work early in the
morning and home late at night, it's so easy to let yourself go physically
and mentally. Your focus and conviction during our training sessions extends
well beyond just the physical, to include mental conditioning, and I believe
it's your ability to mix the two that has allowed me to make a return to a
balanced lifestyle. I really appreciate the fact that you so easily impart
your knowledge and techniques with true dedication. Thanks again Andy for
your efforts and guidance.
Vaughan W, Cammeray
My son began doing Mighty Mites at 5, and has attended for two years. His
training has taught him to confidently manage the childhood bullying he
encounters with a cool head. He can fight, but more importantly knows when,
and when not to. It's a great life-skill lesson. Mighty Mites classes are
well managed and are fun and safe for kids. The instructors are well trained
and enthusiastic. I recommend Mighty Mites to any parent as a fun, safe and
confidence-developing program for your child. Get them into it!
Rick P, Nth Ryde
Hey Andy,
Love your self defence tips. It really helps keep the focus attained in the
dojo through day to day life. It puts it all into perspective and reminds me
to be aware of my space at all times. Thanks!
Simon P, Kirribilli
A testimony to practice was confirmed to me on Sat. I have been going to
Fight Club for about 4 months and having some private lessons from Andy as
well, although my confidence slowly grew I didn't really realize I was
progressing until last week. 4 months ago I did not have the confidence to
even go to a group Shinbudo class on Mondays, 4 months ago I went to a
sparring workshop and did not participate and I feared just watching. I now
train 4 times a week, I also train in the BlackBelt Club Friday nights. It's
this intense physical and mental training that has taken me to the next
level of martial arts. Last Sat I had one of the most enjoyable workouts I
have ever had doing the sparring workshop - the BlackBelt Club prepared me
and is the ultimate workout for Martial Arts.
Elton, Lane Cove
Thanks for reminding me of how possible it is to see oneself in a different
light. After making the seemingly endless journeys to work early in the
morning and home late at night, it's so easy to let yourself go physically
and mentally. Your focus and conviction during our training sessions extends
well beyond just the physical, to include mental conditioning, and I believe
it's your ability to mix the two that has allowed me to make a return to a
balanced lifestyle. I really appreciate the fact that you so easily impart
your knowledge and techniques with true dedication. Thanks again Andy for
your efforts and guidance.
Vaughan Webster
National Channel Manager
e-Business Networking Division
Alcatel Australia Limited
It is a privilege to basically train with Andy and to fine tune my
techniques and Shinbudo combinations. Thank you for your attention to
detail, your clarification process and dedicated focus which are all key
drivers of a great training session. I especially like the expression " the
world is your training mat" and I use this every second of every day, with a
constant and clear focus on "embracing the moment".
This has helped in my professional and also personal life and I acknowledge
you for that. Thank you.
Dr. Michael Tam
Greenwood Medical, Partner
I can really relate to the Shinbudo teams Taeko training success, especially
for increasing fitness and reducing weight. I started in Jan of 2003 with a
two year goal of 1) becoming fit and 2)losing the weight I had put after
several years of hormone treatments. I have not changed my diet since
starting (which is reasonably good anyway) however I have lost a lot of
weight and become quite fit. I was wearing size 10/12 clothes when I started
and now wear size 6/8. I have lost 8 kg's and went from % body fat to %
body fat. I am also now quite fit and have lots of energy!!!! I feel that
this has been a big gain for what has only been two hours of my life (up
until recently where I have added a third class per week). I guess the
reason I am telling you this long winded story is that I wanted to let you
know that the commitment to come to classes and to stick with it has been
made so much easier by the great workouts the team and you provide, as well
as the supportive and friendly atmosphere that is created by the people
involved. I truly love the workouts and hate having to miss a class - for
any reason.
As a person who runs two busy & successful businesses, the importance of
having the qualities you have at Fight Club can not, in my opinion, be
overstated. Congratulations Andy and thank you. See you Tuesday, Cheers
Lennie
Lenore Watts & Associates
Counselling & Peak Performance Specialists
Dear Andy,
Thank you for such an incredible event last night. Kylie Taylor and I really
appreciate your support and your generous donation of a percentage of
proceeds to the orphanage in Cambodia.
It's gestures like this that really make a difference in so many ways.
Kylie and I sometimes get very overwhelmed by the work involved in running
Taylor & Khoo and supporting the orphanage and disadvantaged groups. But one
of the most motivating things about this project is the commitment and
support of people, most of whom have never been to the orphanage yet are
willing to give their time and effort to make a difference.
Thank you - not only for your kind donation but also for motivating,
inspiring and reminding us of why we are doing this in the first place.
Valerie Khoo, Taeko Student.
Taylor and Khoo
PS. Please do pass on our thanks to all the wonderful trainers as well.
Thanks to you and your team Andy I am really enjoying the fightclub
experience.
At age 40, I was looking for a dynamic martial art that could provide me
with a spectrum of skills that could be used to fight from a standing
position all the way to ground grappling. Shinbudo has all the desirable
traditions of martial arts: spirit, discipline and respect encapsulated in a
system that is simple to understand, taught by a group of dedicated and
extremely capable instructors who are themselves constantly challenged to
improve, by Shinbudo founder, Andy Dickinson.
There is no need to waste time learning a foreign language or multitudes of
pre-set patterns or kata as can be the case in other martial arts. Instead,
Shinbudo is the economical and effective application of layers of skills,
taught so as to produce a martial artist of superior standard. I chose
Shinbudo because it works.
Cornay Sinac
Qantas Pilot
You have change my life for ever.
What was I doing with my life before fight club? Who knows.
Fight Club has given me the opportunity to meet unbelievable people and has
allowed to see how far I can go with a little hard work..... Thank you. How
can I go wrong with the support from a great team.
Best Regards,
Dan Roman
Taeko Student
The "Black Belt Club" is the quintessential Shinbudo work out; the essence of Shinbudo distilled into one and a half hours of power, philosophy and personal empowerment. The focus and energy in this class is palpable and at the end of the evening, I was both exhausted and energised. If you want to refine your technique, increase your fitness and harness your mind, be at the "Black Belt Club". It's an incomparable physical and mental work out!
May-Lai Paulin
Gold Medalist . World Sports Ju Jitsu Championships. Brazil 2004
"Due to a long standing interest in martial arts, I shopped around for a
dojo for some years but would inevitably encounter dojos full of testoterone
and machismo rather than the collegiality and sense of shared mission I was
seeking. These values I eventually found in Andy Dickinson's Shinbudo
programme. I also found more. I found how to incorporate fundamental martial
values such as honour and discipline more effectively into my life. As well,
of course, as the confidence that is drawn from the knowledge that I can
protect myself and my loved ones from physical threats."
Dr. Flavio Romano
Lecturer
School of Social Science & Policy
The University of New South Wales
Shinbudo is not just about getting fit & learning how to fight, its also
about building inner strength which can ultimately affect many aspects of
ones life. The discipline has helped me to quit smoking after many years &
never look back. Myself & the people around me have noticed the difference
in me as a person as it has filtered through to both my business & personal
life. I am more focused & confident. Training is something I never looked
forward to until now. Since starting Shinbudo, I cant get enough & am
looking forward to more training days at Balmain.
Grading is another event I look forward to, after my first grading, the vibe
& energy was fantastic I also found it to be a great bonding session between
the team especially the newcomers. After weeks of training, everyone was so
excited to be receiving their new colour or tip. I cant wait till the next
one. I strongly recommend Shinbudo to everyone of all ages!!
Melanie Cetinitich
Real Estate Consultant
Jensen is absolutely loving his Mighty Mites. Every week he tells me about
beating a green tipped yellow belt, or a green belt or even a blue belt, and
whether or not he actually did, doesn't matter to me. It's the enthusiasm in
the five year old that I love. Thanks for all your great work, and for
making a difference to our Son. No doubt Gus (our 2yr old) will sign up as
soon as he is old enough....!!!
Thanks again for everything that you do.
Best regards,
Vaughan Webster
National Channel Manager
e-Business Networking Division
Alcatel Australia Limited
My daughter (6) loves mighty mites. She has been attending for over a year
now and her enthusiasm, if anything, grows each time. Just now she refuses
to be ill on a Tuesday as that would mean she might not be allowed to attend
"mites". Obviously we encourage her enthusiasm. It’s not just the exercise,
her increased physical self-confidence or the discipline or even giving her
the ability to defend herself, but it's also the important lessons about the
"warrior code" which she takes to heart. Often she talks about the aspects
of warrior code discussed in that lesson on the way home. We also discuss it
during the week, when situations occur at school (or in television shows)
and she tries to apply the code. If she retains even a little of these
lessons, then I am convinced we will have helped her deal with any problems
she faces in later life. And as a father - well I must admit - I like it
that she packs one heck of a punch.
My daughter's enthusiasm is contagious. This and the friendliness and
approachability of her trainers persuaded me to give “grown-ups mites” (as
we call Shinbudo) a go. Naturally nervous as a more or less desk-bound 39
year old, it was one of the best moves I have made in a long time. I am
fitter, faster, more flexible and certainly healthier as a result. My wife
jokes about it being a mid-age crisis - she is about to try a Taeko class.
The first class is the most difficult; she will take the plunge soon.
Enthusiasm is contagious.
I started off going once a week, now I almost always make two lessons a
week. It’s not easy finding the time, but if I miss a class - I really do
miss it. It's not just a physical work out (you can get that at any gym) -
it's more than that. There is a large degree of mental discipline as well;
the benefits of which should not be underestimated. In addition, Andy shares
a lot of his hard won insights during the lessons, there for you to take or
leave as you wish. I am a natural cynic, but they make sense to me. The
lessons are hard, but you are not judged by anyone but yourself. They are
varied and they are fun. One day I hope to be able to provide the same level
of support to others as the higher belts provide to me. What more can you
ask for?
It's true that in "grown-ups mites" we don't sit in a circle at the end to
discuss the warrior code, which in a way is a shame. Then again, if I want
to know about the code - I just ask my daughter.
Robin Harper. Shinbudo and Mighty Mites
Lawyer
I have 2 young boys aged 8 and 10. I enrolled them in Mighty Mites 2 years
ago, and have watched their ability and confidence grow both inside and
outside of the training room. Under the watchful eye of Andy Dickinson and
his team of qualified instructors, the children learn not only self
defence, but social and life skills such as: respect for themselves and
others, discipline and perseverance. All this and more is covered in the
syllabus as part of the "Mighty Mites Warrior Code".
I will never forget the shining happy faces of my children as they fronted
up to collect their new belts after having achieved their goals at the end
of a successful grading.
Mighty Mites gives them a set of values, skills and memories they will keep
with them for the rest of their lives.
Cornay Sinac
Qantas Captain.
"When I first began Shinbudo I was looking to lose weight and gain fitness.
I started in Boot Camp training once a week and was reasonably shy and
lacking in self-confidence. Over time, Shinbudo has offered me so much more
than I ever expected. The gains I have made in self-confidence not only help
me in the dojo but also extend to other areas of my life. Not only have I
improved physically, particularly through cross-training in Taeko and
Kickbox, but I have also gained mentally."
Melanie Barrett
Student
"I found the Black Belt Club a great way to take my training to the next level. Not only was the class a very intense physical workout, but you learnt how to connect the mental and spiritual aspects to your training. It wasn't only how to do the techniques, but the why and when we do the techniques. I personally found the lessons learnt within the Black Belt Club do not simply apply to a self-defence situation, but to life in general. I look forward to continuing with the Black Belt Club to assist me in achieving my goals and to become a better human being."
Darren Higgs
Financial Consultant, Zurich
Just writing you a quick note to let you know that I am currently in Japan
training before a Koshiki tournament on the 2nd of August. I really miss my
Taeko, nothing beats the workout, level of intensity, energy and feeling of
satisfaction. I am in Japan until the 4th of August, then on the 5th of
August I have to fly to QLD for the AKF Nationals. I look foward to
returning to Taeko after this stint of training overseas and competeing.
Alexandra Chambers
Australian Karate Champion
A friend was in a fight on the weekend and I kept the ATTACKER away by using
my "strong" arms to keep him from getting too close to my friend. And
surprising I was not nervous and I was totally in control! I dont think I
would have been this way If I had not been going to your classes (and other
kickboxing classes). I was very proud of myself, so THANKYOU. I have gained
confidence from your classes I did not know I already had!!!
YOU ROCK! THANKYOU xxoo
Hollie Smyth
Fightclub Student
Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed the trial class of Taeko I did
on Wednesday night. Daniella was really helpful and showed us the tecniques
etc which was great. I am 33 years old, have had 2 children and work in a
high paced management role, so its all very easy at the end of the day to
make excuses for ones fitness/well being. I have been going to the gym
since I was 14 but never in that time have I really worked out as hard as
experienced at Wednesdays class. If I had to change the name I would call
it - results - as that would be what one would achieve after commitment over
a shorter period that going to the gym for a few hours a week. Thanks for
the opportunity. Will definately be coming back next week.
Sheryl Fenn
Thank you for you coaching, mentoring and preparation for the tournament and
since I have started Shinbudo . I«m very happy to have had this opportunity
to compete with your support and faith in me to do well. (I think I got the
submission on in less than 15 seconds in the grappling final)
I have found the Kickbox class to be an excellent way to improve my
power/strength for punching & kicking with being able to strike the pads.
Thanks again,
Anna Lee
Double Gold Medalist. World Sports Ju Jitsu Championships. Brazil 2004
Thanks for all the great training and teaching you provided which were world class.
Todd Pallett
Australian Taekwondo Heavyweight Champion
I write these words very sincerely and honestly.
I know that I'm still a relative newcomer to Shinbudo... but I believe it has
changed my life - and significantly for the better. Today I'm a more
confident, focused, disciplined, strong and healthy person as a result.
I'm also aware that I'm not the most naturally gifted of martial arts
students. I've never been much good at sport, and have not been a longtime
participant in any particular sport. Few sports have really sparked my
interest. But I feel a strong sense of attachment and commitment to
Shinbudo. It is much more than a sport - and I'm sure if I'm given the
chance to continue to be involved, it will improve me and sustain me more
than any sport possibly could. I want to push myself harder. I want to
learn. I want to be challenged. I want to succeed.
These days, like many people, I have a very full schedule. But I am very
prepared to make time for Shinbudo. My friends and family think I'm crazy
getting up to train at 6:30 on Saturday mornings. And while I don't always
enjoy getting out of bed so early after a long, hard week, I feel on top of
the world after our Saturday morning training sessions.
Tim James
Solicitor
Hi Andy, Just wanted to say Kieran is feeling very positive about Mighty
Mites and is really looking forward to a new term and improving his skills.
Thanks for your help and thanks for teaching him, you guys do a great job
the class is exciting but displined, getting that difficult mix of
concentration and fun. Thanks again,
Ruth Matic
Mighty Mites Mother
I think the Warrior Code is wonderful! Wouldn't it be fantastic if you could
get primary schools involved - and get a national program or something
going?. I can see you with an Order of Australia one day.
Keep up the fantastic work - it is so important and you and all the staff do
a very professional - excellent job. The energy is electric - if I wasn't
pregnant I kill to join in the adult classes. Maybe after March - do you do
personal training?
See you Monday - ready to re-enrol Bill!
Lauren Moore
Mighty Mite Mother
The recent grading was such an amazing experience. It was great to be
surrounded by such a large group of people all supporting each other toward
a common goal. The energy level in the room was so high that it was
impossible not to get caught up in it. It became a time shared to celebrate
everything that we had all achieved rather than a grading as such.
I also wanted to say thank you. Shinbudo has meant so much to me over the
past year and now I can't imagine life without it. Even if I miss one
training session now I feel out of sorts. Thank you for giving me that
opportunity and for teaching me. I really appreciate it.
Mel Barrett
Student
After boring years in gyms, at last I enjoy exercise again. World-class
instructors running an uncompromising, relevant martial arts/self defence
training with a "hit the wall" cardio and strength workout. If it were no
more, it would be worth doing. But Shinbudo goes deeper, teaching self
knowledge, self control and zen awareness.
Dr Howard Chiltern
Paediatrician
I would like to thank you for your dedication to my training. It amazes me
that with all the students you have you can still take the time to care
about the individual. As i told you at the grading you are an inspiration,
and this amazing martial art that you have created is a testimant to your
dedication, skill, desire and ability to inspire people.
Mick Gulliver
NSW Police Force
When I first started with Bootcamp in mid-2001 I had no idea that a few
years later I would be competing at an international level. The progams of
Tae Ko and Kickbox have supplemented my Shinbudo training to elevate my
fitness and strength levels.
If you're wanting to keep fit Tae Ko is a great way do it. A few classes a
week is a great regime to follow to get your body into great shape!
The Kickbox class is a great all-in-one class that covers cardio, technique
and strength work. Hitting the pads really makes you work & I have found
this class an excellent way to work out. (A special thanks to Roland for
partnering me over the last 18 months or so)
It was such an honour not only to compete in the world championships but
actually win 2 gold medals in the individual events and also a bronze for
Australia in the team event. The championships that I competed for and won
is testament to the quality of the training, coaching and mentoring that I
have received from Andy and the fightclub trainers.
Everyone I've met at Fightclub has been really friendly and it's a great
atmosphere to work out, meet people and have fun.
Anna Lee
Double Gold Medalist. World Sports Ju Jitsu Championships. Brazil 2004
Hi Andy,
Kieran won't be coming to holiday classes but he is definitely
wanting to continue next term. Thanks for another great semester. Kieran has
really enjoyed your classes and seems to be progressing well - both
physically and with the more tricky mental concepts. Keep up the excellent
work guys.
Ruthy Matic
Hi Andy,
Just a quick note to say thanks for this morning, it is through semi contact
aparring that i will be able to get a true perspective as to where i am at
with my training, and i appreciate you taking the time to help me in this
regard. Hopefully i have learnt some useful tips already. Also in response
to your conversation this morning, i enjoy having time devoted to helping
others within the system, and understand that a cyclical undrstanding of any
event can only enhance personal growth and knowledge, helping others to help
yourself per se. It seems to be an efficient 'modis operandi' for any type
of organisation. Finally, i think it's important to have you know that i am
really enjoying my training, and its subsequent effect on other areas of my
life.
See you on Saturday.
Dan
Where do I begin? I don't know how to thank you for your help, support and
friendship over the last few years. Moving to Melbourne has been a very
difficult decision for me to make, mainly because I have to leave the Fightclub family.
The success of the Team in Brazil is a testament to your training methods
and to the Shinbudo System. None of us would have performed as well had we
not had the foundations that you laid for us. Thank you for allowing me to be part of such a wonderful experience.
I also want to let you know that Norm did a great job as Team Manager. He,
and the rest of the team, represented Shinbudo with the utmost
professionalism and respect.
Once again, thank you for everything.
Rukesh Suhdai
Bronze Medalist. World Sports Ju Jitsu Championships. Brazil 2004
