Sanjuro (Martial Arts)
# Sanjuro (Martial Arts)

Sanjuro is a hybrid martial art, fusing elements of a variety of martial arts styles, sparring, and dance

## Etymology

The use of the name Sanjuro is a reference to the iconic film by Akira Kurosawa.

## Training

Sanjuro classes are taught in mixed ability groups, both formal grading and uniform optional. DanceCombat classes are also run, offering an emphasis on form, fitness, and flexibility.

The Sanjuro grading system is externally validated by AQA.

## Sanjuro and Special Educational Needs

Sanjuro Martial Arts training is employed in teaching children and adults with a range of special educational needs and disabilities, including partial sight and blindness, autism, and a variety of other physical and learning difficulties.

In the BBC Two programme, My Life: Karate Kids, three disabled students of Sanjuro are featured learning the martial art as a technique to gain better control of their bodies. The documentary, narrated by David Tennant was nominated in Children's: Factual section of the Bafta Awards in 2010 It was made by double BAFTA nominated film maker John Walsh.

In September 2013, Jackie Chan's charity, The Dragon's Heart Foundation, funded a 12-month programme in Tottenham, London, citing Sanjuro's emphasis on encouraging confidence and safety above violence.

## Notable practitioners

Sanjuro is practiced by a number of actors and other professionals in the creative sector including:

* Haruka Kuroda, UK-based Japanese actress, known for performing the voice of Noodle in the band Gorillaz
* Alexander Dreymon, German-born actor, known for appearing with Matt Smith as Caspar in Christopher and His Kind and starring in the BBC production of ‘The Last Kingdom’ as Uhtred of Bebbanburg
* John Walsh, double BAFTA nominated film-maker and Conservative Party candidate for Middlesbrough (UK Parliament constituency) in the 2010 United Kingdom general election as featured in the film ToryBoy The Movie.
