History
Sogo Budo is a synthesis of traditional Japanese martial arts. The great founding masters of contemporary Budo (martial arts), such as Gichin Funakoshi (Shotokan Karate), Jigoro Kano (Kodokan Judo), and Morihei Ueshiba (Aikikai Aikido), had already established this principle in their practice. Their spirit of synthesis and analysis is at the origin of the opening of Japanese martial arts to a global audience.
The term Sogo Budo was used around 1960 by Shigeru Egami (Shotokai Karatedo) to designate the complementary teaching to his karate. Sensei Egami's synthesis included at its core the teaching of karate, judo, aikido, kendo, and bojutsu.
Tetsuya Higuchi incorporated this principle into his teaching. He integrated the teachings of Judo, Kendo, Ninjutsu, Iaido, and Jodo. Furthermore, Sensei Higuchi is a world authority on Taihojutsu (a synthesis of martial arts techniques for arrest). He served as a master martial arts instructor for the Tokyo Metropolitan Police and the Kidotai (SWAT) for over 20 years.
Summary
With over 25 years of experience in practice and teaching, Sensei Steve Gosselin has developed training programs based on martial arts principles. These progressive and structured programs allow members to advance at their own pace.
The Shindokan's Sogo Budo program includes the principles of the following martial arts disciplines:
- Karate
- Judo
- Aikido
- Jujutsu
- Taijutsu
- Sambo
- Kenpo
- Jojutsu
As the student progresses in their training, they integrate new concepts with those already acquired to form a cohesive whole. One of the objectives of Sogo Budo is focused on the diversity of techniques that allow for adaptation to any situation.
Sogo Budo encompasses the three components that form the balance for healthy and sustainable training:
- Physical conditioning;
- Effective martial arts techniques;
- Development of the mind.
- Technique alone is not effective; the union of body and mind is efficient, and it is the study of technique that promotes this union.
Physical Conditioning
The physical training program aims to get members in shape: improve mobility, strengthen the body, and develop cardiovascular endurance. The exercises are adapted according to the student’s level and progress. Gradually, the practitioner learns to move more efficiently while cultivating stability, power, and flexibility.
The development of physical condition is gradual. It is not based on athletic performance, but rather on the regular and progressive practice of movements that serve the martial arts techniques. The goal is to achieve a strong, fluid, and resilient body capable of supporting continuous training over time.
This aspect of training includes:
Foundational bodyweight exercises.
Dynamic and static stretching.
Balance and coordination work.
Breathing and posture awareness.
Strength building for joints and core stability.
The objective is not simply to become stronger but to develop the ability to use the body effectively, economically, and in harmony with technique.
