Welcome to Hoshin Budo

Founding Vision

In the early 1980s, Dr. Glenn J. Morris, an accomplished martial artist and scholar, sought to create a martial arts system that transcended the limitations of traditional styles. Drawing from his extensive experience in disciplines such as Ninjutsu under Masaaki Hatsumi, Isshinryu Karate under Sherman Harrill, and insights from Wu Shu master Leo Sebregst, Dr. Morris founded Hoshinjutsu as an elective gym course at Hillsdale College in Michigan.

Inspired by the multidisciplinary approach of early American Ninja Festivals, Dr. Morris envisioned a system that integrated self-protection, healing, and energy cultivation. He aimed to offer students a holistic and comprehensive understanding of martial arts, emphasizing not just physical techniques but also mental discipline and personal development. Hoshinjutsu was born from his desire to present Eastern concepts through a Western lens, making them accessible and practical for all practitioners.

Evolution and Refinement

As Hoshin evolved, contributions from various instructors enriched the system with techniques from styles like karate and judo. While this diversity expanded Hoshin's repertoire, it also led to a dilution of its core principles. Recognizing the need for cohesion and clarity, Dr. Morris entrusted Rob Williams, a dedicated student and black belt instructor since 1996, with the task of organizing and refining the system.

Rob Williams worked diligently to re-establish the core techniques and create a standardized curriculum. He streamlined the belt rankings, effectively aligning them with the energetic centers they represent. By removing excessive borrowed content from other arts and focusing on Hoshin's unique strategies and dynamics, he ensured that Hoshin became a continuing and living tradition.

Rob's extensive work included demystifying energetic phenomena and making advanced concepts accessible and understandable. His efforts made the system more cohesive and practical for students, emphasizing that Hoshin is not merely a collection of techniques but a comprehensive system of self-protection and personal development.

Dr. Morris placed significant trust in Rob Williams, eventually designating him as his successor. Williams's dedication is evident in his continuous efforts to preserve and enhance Hoshin, demonstrating his commitment to carrying on Dr. Morris's legacy and advancing the system.

Core Philosophy

At the heart of Hoshin lies a philosophy that integrates physical, mental, and personal development. The system employs the Godai movement model, based on the five elements—Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, and Void—as a framework for unifying physical movements with emotional awareness. This model trains practitioners to connect specific emotions and attitudes with physical techniques, promoting adaptability and spontaneity.

What sets Hoshin apart is the incorporation of essential knowledge into everyday class instruction. Unlike many martial arts schools where advanced concepts are reserved for higher-level students or discussed only in theory, Hoshin integrates these teachings from the very beginning. This approach reflects the belief that true mastery involves the harmonious development of all aspects of the self.

• Energy Cultivation: Developing internal energy (chi) to enhance physical abilities and promote healing.
• Meditation: Cultivating mental discipline and heightened awareness.
• Practical Self-Defense: Focusing on realistic scenarios and appropriate reactions rather than relying solely on pre-arranged techniques.

Hoshin emphasizes the importance of developing appropriate responses to dangerous situations, encouraging practitioners to be adaptable and spontaneous. This approach aligns with the core principle of flexibility and the ability to navigate challenges with resilience and intuition.

Continuing the Tradition

Today, Hoshinjutsu is alive and thriving under the leadership of Soke Rob Williams. The art has evolved into a complete system of physical, mental, and energetic development. Our ryu boasts quality instructors who deeply understand Dr. Morris's vision for complete integration and are adept at conveying these methods to others.

Rob has dedicated decades to improving the system, demystifying energetic phenomena, and ensuring that the teachings are accessible and practical for modern practitioners. His work has solidified Hoshin as a living tradition that continues to grow and adapt.

Rob Sensei teaches Hoshin classes every week and occasionally hosts special events and seminars. Notably, the Doc Morris Memorial Seminar is held on the first Sunday in April, honoring our founder's legacy. Hoshinfest, our annual gathering usually held in October, brings together practitioners from all over to celebrate, train, and deepen their understanding of the art.

In the United Kingdom, Craig Dickson leads the UK Hoshin Dojo, further expanding the reach of Hoshin and sharing its teachings internationally. His dedication to the art and alignment with Dr. Morris's vision contribute significantly to the global Hoshin community.

Invitation to Join

We warmly invite you to contact us and become a part of the living tradition that is Hoshinjutsu. Hoshin encourages personal growth and self-discovery as integral elements of training. Students are inspired to explore their potential, develop their intuition, and cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and improvement. This emphasis on evolution and adaptation ensures that the system remains relevant and effective in today's world.

“Keep going, keep playing. Study on this!”

Join us on this journey toward self-mastery and holistic development. Together, we continue to honor our founder's vision while embracing the principles of evolution and adaptation that keep Hoshin vibrant and dynamic.

Experience Hoshin

Whether you are new to martial arts or an experienced practitioner seeking a deeper connection, Hoshin offers a path that transcends mere physical technique. It is a journey that encompasses the mind and body, providing tools not only for self-defense but also for healing and personal transformation.

We look forward to welcoming you into our community and supporting you on your journey within this living tradition. Feel free to reach out for more information or to find a class near you. Together, let's continue the legacy of Hoshin, embracing its rich history and contributing to its future growth.