Seibukan Jujutsu combines ancient samurai combat techniques with practical self-defense skills for today's world. At the Modern Warrior Arts Academy in downtown Vallejo, a short 10-minute walk from the Vallejo ferry, students of all ages learn this adaptable martial art under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Seibukan Jujutsu stands apart from other martial arts with its unique blend of ancient Japanese fighting techniques and modern self-defense applications. The name itself tells you a lot - "Seibukan" means "the house of correct martial arts" while "Jujutsu" translates to "flexible art." This flexibility is key to the system's effectiveness.
Founded by Julio Toribio Kancho, Seibukan Jujutsu emerged from his mastery of multiple martial disciplines, including Hakko Ryu Jujutsu, Aikido, Karate, and Ninjutsu. Recognizing that modern threats differ from those faced by ancient samurai, Toribio created a system that adapts traditional wisdom to today's world.
Three core principles form the foundation of Seibukan training:
This focus on awareness and assessment often means physical confrontation can be avoided entirely - the highest form of self-defense. When action is needed, Seibukan teaches three approaches:
Unlike sport-focused martial arts, Seibukan Jujutsu maintains its combat roots. Students learn to defend against multiple attackers, weapons, and ground situations. The training includes throws, joint locks, strikes, chokes, and disarming techniques - all taught with an emphasis on practical application rather than flashy moves.
What truly sets Seibukan apart is its adaptability. The techniques work regardless of size or strength, making it accessible to anyone. At Vallejo's Modern Warrior Arts Academy, this ancient-yet-modern art helps students develop both physical skills and mental readiness for whatever challenges they might face.
When you step into the Modern Warrior Arts Academy in Vallejo, you're training under one of the area's most accomplished martial artists. Renshi Bear Roberts holds an 8th degree black belt in Seibukan Jujutsu, placing him among the highest-ranked instructors in the system.
His journey in martial arts began early - at just 6 years old - and spans over four decades of dedicated training. Unlike specialists who focus on a single style, Renshi Roberts has explored many paths, studying Karate, Tai Chi Chuan, Pentjak Silat, Escrima, European Sword Arts, Ninjutsu, Kun Tao Silat, Bagua Zhang, and Hsing I. This diverse background gives him a comprehensive understanding of combat principles that transcend any single system.
"I was drawn to Seibukan Jujutsu in part for its ability and willingness to adapt itself to a changing world," explains Renshi Roberts. "Seibukan's focus on self-confidence, self-discipline and inner strength appeals to me."
With over 25 years of teaching experience, Renshi Roberts has developed an approach that balances traditional martial values with practical application. He emphasizes that Seibukan gives students "the confidence and ability to defend themselves while at the same time imparting the quick decision making and awareness of one's environment that allow one to negotiate potentially dangerous situations without resorting to physical force."
As a founding member of the International Seibukan Jujutsu Association and founder of Seibukan Jujutsu of Mendocino, Renshi Roberts maintains deep connections to the art's lineage while making it accessible to modern students. His teaching philosophy centers on meeting students where they are - recognizing that each person brings different abilities, goals, and learning styles to their training.
Beyond his technical expertise, what truly distinguishes Renshi Roberts is his ability to create a training environment where students of all ages and backgrounds can thrive. His classes blend rigorous instruction with supportive guidance, helping each student discover their own path as modern warriors.
The Modern Warrior Arts Academy offers a range of programs designed to meet the needs of students at every stage of life and training. Located in downtown Vallejo, the academy's class schedule makes martial arts training accessible to the entire community.
Adult classes run multiple times per week, with options for both beginners and advanced practitioners:
A typical adult class begins with traditional etiquette - students line up according to rank, face the front of the dojo (shomen), and bow to show respect for the training space and instructors. This is followed by specific warmups designed not just to prepare the body for exercise, but to develop proper posture, balance, and movement patterns essential to the art.
Students then practice striking techniques (atemi), falling safely (ukemi), and basic techniques (kihon-waza) before moving on to partner practice. The focus is always on proper form and practical application rather than merely going through motions. Advanced classes incorporate more complex scenarios, including multiple attackers and weapons defenses.
The academy recognizes that children have different needs and learning styles than adults, offering age-appropriate programs:
These children's classes focus on developing fundamental skills along with important life lessons. Children learn discipline, respect, focus, and confidence while building physical coordination and self-defense abilities. Classes incorporate games and activities that make learning fun while reinforcing martial principles.
For those looking to expand their martial arts journey, the academy offers additional training opportunities:
Private lessons are also available by appointment for those seeking more personalized instruction.
What makes the Modern Warrior Arts Academy special isn't just its class offerings but the community that has formed around them. Students of all ranks train together, support each other's growth, and celebrate achievements as a family. This sense of belonging extends beyond the dojo walls to include social events and participation in the broader Seibukan Jujutsu community.
Seibukan Jujutsu offers far more than just physical techniques – it's a complete system for developing body, mind, and spirit. While many people initially come to the dojo seeking self-defense skills, they soon discover the practice transforms many aspects of their lives.
The Seibukan system follows a structured progression that allows students to build skills systematically:
| Level | Focus | Key Development Areas |
|---|---|---|
| White Belt | Foundation | Basic movements, falls, stance, etiquette |
| Yellow Belt | Building blocks | Simple techniques, basic combinations |
| Green Belts (2 levels) | Application | Connecting techniques, tactical thinking |
| Brown Belts (2 levels) | Refinement | Advanced applications, teaching skills |
| Black Belt | Mastery & growth | Personal expression, deeper understanding |
| Higher Dan ranks | Leadership | System preservation, development, teaching |
Each rank has specific techniques and concepts that must be demonstrated before advancement. This careful progression ensures that students develop a solid foundation before moving to more complex material.
Physical techniques are only part of the equation. Seibukan training sharpens mental focus, spatial awareness, and decision-making under pressure. Students learn to read body language, spot potential threats before they develop, and maintain calm in challenging situations.
This heightened awareness often transfers to everyday life – students report being more present, more observant of their surroundings, and better able to handle stress at work and home. The meditative aspects of training help develop mental discipline that extends far beyond the dojo.
Traditional values are woven throughout Seibukan training. Students practice respect through proper dojo etiquette, perseverance through challenging drills, integrity through honest effort, and humility through the continuous learning process.
For children especially, these character elements are often as valuable as the physical skills. Parents frequently note improvements in focus, self-control, and confidence after their children begin training. Adults too find that the values emphasized in training help them navigate life's challenges with greater equanimity.
One of the most meaningful aspects of training at the Modern Warrior Arts Academy is becoming part of the larger Seibukan family. This network extends far beyond Vallejo to include dojos across the United States and internationally.
Twice yearly, members gather for major events – Budo Gasshuku (training camp) and Taikai (gathering) – where students train with instructors from throughout the system. These events foster camaraderie, expose students to different teaching approaches, and reinforce the sense of belonging to something larger than themselves.
Advanced students may also participate in specialized training sessions, instructor development programs, and leadership opportunities within the International Seibukan Jujutsu Association.
Through this complete training system, students at the Modern Warrior Arts Academy don't just learn to defend themselves – they cultivate awareness that helps avoid conflict, develop mental resilience that serves them in all aspects of life, and join a supportive community dedicated to growth and learning.
Ready to explore what Seibukan Jujutsu can offer you or your child? Here's everything you need to know to begin your journey at the Modern Warrior Arts Academy in Vallejo.
The dojo is conveniently located in downtown Vallejo at 349 Georgia Street (at the corner of Georgia and Marin). When you arrive for your first class, you'll be welcomed into a friendly, respectful environment. No prior experience is necessary – everyone starts somewhere, and the academy welcomes students of all fitness levels and backgrounds.
New students are encouraged to observe a class first to get a feel for the training. If you decide to participate, wear comfortable workout clothes for your first few sessions until you obtain a proper uniform.
Selecting the appropriate program depends on your age and goals:
For those with specific interests, the specialty programs (Battojutsu, Iron Cauldron, Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu) might be appropriate after gaining some foundational experience.
For your first few classes, wear comfortable athletic clothes that allow free movement. Once you decide to continue training, you'll need:
A typical first class involves:
The focus is always on safety first, with new students learning proper falling techniques before progressing to more advanced moves. Instructors adjust the pace and intensity based on each student's ability level.
Training at the Modern Warrior Arts Academy is an investment in your physical and mental well-being. Current rates are:
Many students find the value extends far beyond the physical training, with benefits appearing in many aspects of their lives. The academy offers flexible payment options to make training accessible.
The path of martial arts training is different for everyone. Some seek practical self-defense skills, others want physical fitness, and many discover unexpected benefits along the way. Whatever your reason for considering martial arts, the Modern Warrior Arts Academy offers a welcoming place to explore the ancient wisdom and modern applications of Seibukan Jujutsu.