Testimonials from Students, Parents, and Other Martial Artists

"The Dojo Online Learning Center is such a great resource. It covers an incredible amount of Budo-related material such as: Level 1 - 4 techniques, a variety of weapons training, ground fighting and tap out seminars, and mental preparedness - just to name a few! Whether you are lucky enough to be an in-class student here at The Dojo or an online learner - this is a must-have!"

Shawn G.

"I've been training in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu since 1996 (although I'm not in the organization any longer). I found your YouTube channel this week. Well, sir, I love it. I've trained with so many high-ranking shidoshi/shihan that don't have a clue. I've been a cop for 25 years and have only trained cops, corrections, and the military. You, sir, have a great grasp on reality. You can show the original kata, and then show a very good understanding way of using the principles in a practical way. I've seen very few over the years that can do this. Your students are very fortunate."

- Phil Ryan

"One of the most welcoming and friendly places I have ever been. Mr. Norcross has created a place that looks to balance both the body and mind. The defense techniques are taught such they are applicable to real world situations."
- Justin Gilman

"As an active senior I was looking for an alternative to the gym for staying in shape. The Dojo is exactly the right place for me to be. Teachers and students alike are my family now."
- Kathy Merrick

So, after 9 surgeries I was told my martial arts love was over with. I discovered your channel through my wife. She kept encouraging me not to give up.
I went through a lot of physical therapy - better known as torture 101. I started training with the hanbo and a bo. I am watching your videos and being motivated by you. Sincerely, thank you so much!
- Keith Westmoreland 

"You Sensei is a true virtuoso: a brilliant musician, a painter, a writer, a poet, and a martial arts master. You are all very fortunate at your dojo."

• Sifu Michael Smith
  
  "Sensei Norcross, your explanations and passion are amazing, I wish you were close to learn with you."
   - Alejandro Barberis
  
  "Coming from academia, I didn’t know how to throw a punch. Now, after nearly two years, I have the confidence and skill to protect myself and family." 
  - Mark Callow M.D.
  
  "I never thought that I would be asked about my black belt while interviewing for a neuroscience job in the medical field, but it was the first question the hiring manager asked me. My time and experience at The Dojo impressed the manager so much that I truly believe they felt confident entrusting me with such an important position involving patients."
  
  "This channel needs at least one hundred thousand more subscribers.
  
  Out of all the Ninjutsu/Taijutsu YouTube channels or videos on the internet this is by far the most effective-looking, educational and comprehensive schools I have seen out there.
  Clear speaking, knowledgeable but also realistic in application.
  No mystical or fake-looking techniques and down-to-earth instruction. Education in history and art too. I would sign up immediately if i could. Shout out from the UK!"
   - Phil of the Fist
  

"I work for Child Protective Services and deal with a lot of bad people, and good people at the worst times in their lives. No one is ever happy to see a CPS investigator at their door. I’m investigating neglect and abuse every day, I’m lied to, avoided, yelled at, threatened, and in danger of being attacked. In this line of work, it is easy to get jaded, burned out, and to lose faith in humanity. The Dojo reminds me that there are good people out there. The Dojo isn’t just a martial arts school, but truly is like a family. Everyone there cheers you on and is happy to see you succeed. I truly believe that joining The Dojo is one of the best decisions of my life. My time at The Dojo recharges my spirit and reminds me of the good in the world. I hear or see something every time I’m there that makes me proud to belong to this amazing group of people."
 - Chris. R. Level 2 student

"I am a shy and quiet person, but over the years I have understood that I have to speak up for myself at certain times. The Dojo has been an integral part of my life for the past six years. Out of all of the school activities that I partake in, The Dojo has always been my favorite. Now that I am receiving my Black Belt, the training has just started. I am going to work towards my second degree."
 - Youth Student Ishani - 1st Degree Black Belt

"Great instruction. I remember when our dojo used to train like that. I fear our dojo has become a belt factory. Wish you were closer. Thanks for producing the videos."
 - Joe M - Dojo Video Viewer 

"You are an amazing practitioner of Budo! Love your videos! Thank you for posting them! I learn every week from them!" 😃
  - zjeo2 - You Tube Fan

"Well said Sensei. The heart-felt passion is abundant in this video. Sadly, there is not enough Instructors like you out there."
 - TheMikey1865 YouTube Fan.

"Thank you, Sensei Norcross. You're a wonderful man because you try to be the best you that you can learn to be. I love that. I thank you, sincerely, for you being you."
 - D P YouTube Fan

"Much of what I learned is the importance of good balance in your mind. You must train yourself to take on the mental attacks that will occur on a daily basis. It is easy to become complacent and lazy. You can easily fall into ruts of bad practice without knowing it. By training the thoughts in your mind, you can focus on the positive aspects of life and develop an internal peace and confidence that can only be explained by doing it yourself. The Dojo helps keep your mind sharp, as well as your body. I truly feel fortunate to have found this art for me and my family. I am a Black Belt, and proud of it."
 - Woody Barker

"World-class instructors with genuine caring for their students. The Dojo provides guaranteed success now and for later in life. You'll be glad you signed up yourself or your family"
- Grandmother of Level 3 Student. 

"I Did Tae Kwon Do and Aikido. Then I found the dojo and realized how little I knew about Martial Arts."
- John 

"Sensei Todd, your teaching style is just the best!!! I would fly all the way from Australia just to train in your dojo.?"
- J. Daniels 

"After seven years at another, we switched to The Dojo. The difference was obvious. My daughter has become a leader and teacher, with the skills necessary to keep her safe, because of The Dojo experience."
- Eileen McConkie 

"Everyone at the school seemed to have this cool sense of calm and welcoming attitude that was infectious. They were everything I wanted to be as a shy seventh grader."

"Without The Dojo and its society within it, my life would be, honestly, pretty dull. I would not have the disciplined life I have now. I have learned basic morals and discipline in the discussions we have had. Here I am now, with confidence and knowledge, all because of The Dojo's impact on my life."
 - Anant Ramji - Age 12

"Master Norcross is a fantastic educator. His patience and enthusiasm has made a real difference in our lives."

"Shihan Norcross keeps it real. I watch him on YouTube every week. He takes the outdated Yoroi techniques and brings them to life. I would give anything to train under him at his dojo in America."
 - Arjay V. India

"The philosophical aspect of training has really helped me with my overall happiness."
 - R.J.

This is the finest martial arts learning site that I have ever seen.

They are extremely self-aware and The Dojo is run with an amazing sense of passion and sincerity.

Grandmasterhobbyist writes:

"Norcross is like the Bob Ross of sword information and reviews, same relaxed talking vibe."

"Sensei Norcross teaches from the heart. He is a treasure of knowledge."- Sensei Michael Ray, Shotokan Karate

@theleagueofshadows100 writes: "Thank you Sensei, again I feel that I’ve gained some of or a glimpse of the deeper knowledge that came/comes with years of training. You are very great at exposing that for people. You have multiple times, reignited my passion and love for training in this martial art from what you say and do so thank you."

@brandonbentley8532 wrote:

"I wish I lived near you I'd join this dojo in an instant!

"I am genuinely impressed with The Dojo's online platform. It’s a treasure trove for martial arts practitioners and enthusiasts alike, providing accessible resources to deepen our understanding of these timeless disciplines while making them easier to be applied in the modern days. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this platform is an invaluable tool for anyone passionate about budo. Highly recommended!"

Thales Santo - Online Subscriber

"I am a Shito Ryu Karate Instructor. I came to know Sensei Norcross through a mutual friend. I am adding several of Ryotoshi Sensei's teachings into my curriculum. I encourage other teachers of martial arts to subscribe for new ideas. His knowledge is extensive."

Mike Sullivan