FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

ORGANIZATION

·  What is the origin and meaning of Seibukan Budo [SBIF]?

It originated from a small martial arts school named Kodenkan at the American Air Base (United States Air Force - USAF) in Zaragoza, Spain. It was founded in 1987 by Ricardo Sanz Orús and other martial arts practitioners for the teaching and preservation of traditional Japanese martial arts. Currently, it is an international martial arts organization based in Neuchatel, Switzerland, and encompasses members from 10 countries. Known by the name Seibukan or the acronym SBI or SBIF, its formal designation is Seibukan Budo and Seibukan Budo International or International Seibukan Budo Federation for the international division.

· What is the origin of its teachings?

In its early days, in the mid-1980s, the fundamental practice and teaching were based on Okinawa Goju Ryu Karatedo, Danzanryu Judo-Jujutsu, Aikikai Aikido, and Kobudo (traditional Japanese weapons).

· What are Seibukan Budo - SBIF's goals?

Primarily, the teaching of Japanese martial arts from a traditional perspective. You can read the objectives of SBIF, created from its founding statutes in 1987, at this link.

· What Japanese masters have taught SBIF instructors?

You can get to know some of the prominent Japanese masters who have taught and/or certified different directors and auditors of SBIF at the following link.

· How can I contact the director of Seibukan Budo - SBIF?

You can contact the director of Seibukan Budo - SBIF and other international directors at the following link.

· Is Seibukan Budo - SBIF a company or association?

Seibukan Budo is registered as a non-profit association (NPO) an sport association martial arts section according to spanish legislation and also in different countries according to their laws and regulations.

MEMBERSHIP

· What benefits do I have by joining Seibukan Budo - SBIF?

Joining provides various benefits, including access to a community dedicated to the teaching and preservation of traditional Japanese martial arts. As a member, you may have the opportunity to participate in events, seminars, and training sessions led by experienced instructors. Additionally, SBIF membership can contribute to the recognition of your ranks and achievements in the context of traditional Japanese martial arts.

For specific details and a comprehensive understanding of the benefits, it is recommended to refer to the following SBIF link or contact the organization directly.

· What rank do I need to become a member of Seibukan Budo - SBIF?

Anyone interested can join SBIF regardless of their training, rank, organization, or previous instructor. We respect your rank until you can be examined in the chosen martial art or undergo the corresponding recognition or validation according to international administrative regulations.

You can find the administrative regulations and requirements at the following link.

· How can I help Seibukan Budo - SBIF?

You can contribute to Seibukan Budo - SBIF in various ways:

1. Active participation in SBIF courses: Join as a student in the seminars organized by SBIF to enhance your technical knowledge in martial arts. If you are an instructor and wish to take on a leadership role, organize a course recognized by SBIF.

2. Collaboration in Events: Contribute to the organization of courses conducted by SBIF, thereby strengthening the sense of community among practitioners.

3. Promotion and dissemination: Share information about SBIF on your social networks and with friends. A positive reputation and visibility can attract new students.

4. Assistance in administrative tasks: If you have management skills, offer support in administrative tasks to ensure the smooth functioning of SBIF, such as maintaining records, managing registrations, and coordinating activities.

5. Recruiting martial arts practitioners: Identify and invite suitable practitioners to join SBIF.

6. Support for student retention: Contribute to creating a welcoming and positive environment for new students to integrate and motivate existing ones to remain committed to SBIF's goals.

7. Contribute ideas and materials: Provide innovative suggestions and materials that enrich the development of SBIF, whether at the organizational level or in its online presence.

Your contributions can play a significant role in promoting and enhancing the objectives of Seibukan Budo - SBIF.

· I am a teacher at a martial arts club. Can my club be recognized?

Yes. Clubs in SBIF can be recognized as "Accredited International Club-Dojo." This recognition comes with the issuance of an official accreditation and a free diploma. Only accredited clubs are authorized to teach martial arts, conduct courses, certify students, etc., with the recognition of SBIF.

The accreditation suggests that the International Club-Dojo has met certain standards or requirements and has received official recognition, granting them the authority to teach at an international level.

· I would like to be a member of SBIF and contribute to the organization, but I do not practice martial arts. Is it possible to be a member of SBIF?

Certainly. Seibukan Budo - SBIF is not only composed of martial arts practitioners; there are also lawyers, publicists, doctors, accountants, etc., who advise the Seibukan Budo - SBIF headquarters. Contact us if you would like to be part of the HQ SBIF advisory group.

· What are the different classes of membership in SBIF?

1. Individual Membership (without validation/homologation): - This membership is open to all individuals interested in Japanese martial arts who wish to join SBIF. Certification validation or equivalence is not required to become a member of SBIF. 2. Individual Membership (with validation/homologation): - This membership is open to all individuals interested in traditional Japanese martial arts who wish to join SBIF and validate their martial arts certification. In the event it is deemed necessary, validation, equivalence, grade advancement, Japanese certification, or instructor training course will not be granted without first conducting a technical evaluation of the candidate. 3. Membership Applications: - All membership applications must be endorsed and signed by the Representative - Branch Director of Seibukan Budo [SBIF] in their country. 4. Membership Process:

- The process to become a member of SBIF is simple and easy to complete.

· How much does it cost to be a member of SBIF?

The annual membership fee is 50€ for the first year and 25€ for subsequent years.

INSTRUCTORs

Is it possible to be an internationally accredited instructor by Seibukan Budo - SBIF? How can I achieve this?

· Yes. Seibukan Budo - SBIF recognizes distinguished teachers in the field of martial arts with the certification of internationally accredited instructor and acknowledges their professional status with honorary teaching certifications of Renshi, Kyoshi, Shihan and Hanshi. Having a meaning of recognition for the holder, these certifications are granted free of charge. For more information, please refer to this link.

TRAINING

· Where can I train?

SBIF is a small organization with clubs - dojos in 10 countries. Contact the SBIF representative in your country at the following link.

· Do you teach children?

Yes, we do teach classes to children starting from the age of 10. The practice of martial arts in Seibukan Budo - International Seibukan Budo Federation [SBIF], for the little ones not only constitutes a beneficial physical activity but also plays a crucial role in their holistic development. SBIF values teaching fundamental values such as discipline, respect, and self-confidence, providing children with a solid foundation for life. In addition to improving physical health through enhanced coordination and strength, SBIF is committed to fostering character development and creating a safe and structured environment where children can thrive both physically and emotionally. Early martial arts practice in SBIF is not just about acquiring technical skills but also about promoting character development and the overall well-being of the younger participants.

· Seibukan Budo - SBIF organizes martial arts courses in my country or in Japan?

Yes. There are 3 types of courses for different martial arts sections (Aikido, Karatedo, Iaido, Kobudo, etc.): Regional, National, and International (International Congress) including those in Japan, organized and/or authorized by National Directors - Branch Director or HQ - SBIF Directors.

· Who can participate in these courses?

All individuals interested in martial arts are welcome to participate in the courses according to the requirements set by the course director. The courses in Japan are limited to members of Seibukan Budo [SBIF] and, as specified by the organizer.

· How can I find the schedule of Seibukan Budo - SBIF activities?

You can find the schedule of activities for SBIF on this link. For specific inquiries, please contact the branch director in each country.

· What is the official language of Seibukan Budo - SBIF?

The official languages are Spanish, English, and French. In Japan, courses are conducted in Japanese.

· Is there competition in Seibukan Budo - SBIF?

There is no competition among Seibukan Budo - SBIF members. Practice is oriented towards personal improvement, teaching, and preservation of traditional Japanese martial arts. The main focus of SBIF is to provide opportunities for study and training, rather than emphasizing competitive tournaments. While in the martial arts practiced in Seibukan Budo - SBIF there is no competitive opposition, practitioners learn and perfect specific forms (katas) throughout their training, and the technique of execution can be assessed by an expert panel.

· Why are so many styles and schools recognized?

The federation acknowledges and incorporates the existence of different martial arts schools and styles into its organization for several reasons:

History and Tradition: Martial arts have deep historical roots in Japan and have evolved over centuries. During this time, various schools (ryuha) with unique approaches and techniques have developed. These schools often have a direct connection to the samurai history and have been passed down from generation to generation.

Cultural Diversity: The diversity of schools and styles reflects the cultural richness of Japan. Each school may have its own philosophies, tactical approaches, and emphasis on specific aspects of martial arts. Acceptance of this diversity helps preserve and promote the cultural richness and traditions associated with the practice of martial arts.

Different Pedagogical Approaches: Each school may have unique teaching methods and pedagogical approaches. Recognizing and accepting this diversity allows practitioners, even within the same martial art, to choose the school or teaching style that best suits their preferences and learning style.

Respect for Individuality: Martial arts are not just a sport but also a path of personal and spiritual development. Recognizing and respecting different schools and styles allows practitioners to find those that align best with their personal goals and values.

Preservation and Evolution: By recognizing different schools, the federation contributes to the preservation of diverse teaching traditions and styles. At the same time, it encourages continuous evolution and adaptation of the discipline, allowing the incorporation of new knowledge and approaches without losing the fundamental essence.

In summary, the acknowledged diversity of schools and styles by the federation is a demonstration of respect for the rich history and cultural tradition associated with martial arts in Japan, as well as a recognition of the importance of adapting to the individual needs and preferences of practitioners.

· I am a French citizen. Can I become a member of the martial arts school Seibukan - Seibukan Budo?

Certainly, the exclusive purpose of the organization is "the promotion, participation, and management of physical activity and sports". In this case, it involves traditional Japanese martial arts, and it is stated in their statutes that they "do not admit any form of discrimination based on birth." If you are a French citizen, you can become a member of our organization. Please contact the representative of France using the following link. 

THE NAME, LOGO AND PUBLICATIONS "SEIBUKAN"

· Is there a discipline called "Seibukan or Aikijutsu" ? 

To answer your question, we need to translate the kanji - logographic characters - that make up the word Seibukan. Each kanji represents an idea or concept and can have multiple readings and meanings depending on the context. 

If the kanji for Seibukan are 正武館 (as in the case of our martial arts school Seibukan Budo), it could be translated as the place of the just warrior; if they are 聖武館, it could be translated as the sacred martial place; if they are 征武館, it would mean the place of the victorious warrior. But they always refer to a place, not a martial art. It is in that place where martial arts are practiced. 

According to traditional Japanese martial arts schools and their main organizations in Japan, Nihon Kobudo Kyokai and Nihon Kobudo Shinkokai, there is no martial art or discipline called "Seibukan", and there is no certification for a "Grand Master". The martial art or discipline "Aikijutsu" also does not exist in these schools and does not exist in the Japanese martial tradition.

In the martial tradition, there is "Aiki no jutsu" as a martial art or as part of the martial art "Aiki jujutsu". It also represents a modern martial art that seeks to differentiate itself from Aikido in terms of its orientation, methodology and recognition.

· Can I use the Seibukan Budo - SBIF logo?

The founder of the Seibukan martial arts school and creator of the Seibukan Budo logo authorizes you to use the name, photographs, and the Seibukan Budo logo, among other things, in your organization and website during your membership. Some individuals, after ceasing to be members of SBIF, continue to use the name Seibukan Budo, the logo, and photographs that are not their property.

This use of the name, photographs, and their replicas might suggest that it is authorized and endorsed by Seibukan Budo [SBIF] and follows the guidelines and standards established for international members, but there is neither continuity nor representation of the genuine objectives, educational content, nor procedures of Seibukan Budo nor its international division - International Seibukan Budo Federation [SBIF]. Its use might be legal, but it is not legitimate.

Ensure the legitimate teaching of martial arts from the Seibukan school at this link.