Ever fantasized about becoming a Ninja? Now you can actually realize that fantasy. I was going to give this academy one star but was afraid Mr. Woodard would hurt me, so I changed the rating. Just kidding! This academy rocks. This is a serious martial arts academy, where you really can learn the traditional ninjutsu / taijutsu art, and continue to grow in the art for a lifetime. That's right, ninjutsu is a great art for people of all ages and stages of physical condition. It helps to be in good athletic condition, but you can be pretty darn dangerous when you're 90, if you continue to train. In fact, Matt Woodard, the academy's shihan, has recently adjusted his program to more closely follow the methods established in Japan by the grand masters. Most of his classes are two hours, but he has a few that are an hour... just in case two hours is a bit much. I've taken other martial arts: Tang Soo Do and Shotokan. I have friends who became advanced at Tae Kwon Do and the ever-popular macho Mixed Martial Arts. Feh. Nothing compares. Yes, there is a reason Ninjutsu artists are banned from MMA competitions. Think of Ninjutsu as Legos. You nail down about 8 basic techniques, then creatively link them together to form an infinite number of moves. Isn't that what "art" is? Yes, the art of creatively causing pain and mayhem. So, here I am, in my 50s and I'm not afraid. No, I'm not going to cruise through Skid Row at midnight. That's just plain stupid. And that's also part of what you learn. In addition to learning how to face-plant a bad guy, you also learn how not to be stupid. Anyway, you learn cool stuff that modernizes the art. Stuff like how to take away a gun or knife from some desperate dumbass. But once you're a black belt (which takes about 3 years), you'll learn the more daunting weapons like the sword and bo staff. In the lower ranks, YES, you learn to throw the ninja stars (shuriken for cry'n out loud!), and to properly use nunchuks, and other cool weapons. Ever thrown somebody with a string? Yep, you can do it. It's all very cool and useful. As a bonus, the Woodards take whomever can afford the time and money, to Japan about twice a year, to work with the grand master. My son and I went to Japan with the academy in August of 2011. It was an unforgettable experience. I had always wanted to go to Japan and this was the ideal way to do it. I didn't train as much as my son did but the training I did do, I still remember. It was also really good to be with a group with the leadership and some members already familiar with the train system, culture, local restaurants, etc., in the Northeastern portions of the Tokyo area. One hidden benefit of going to Japan is affirmation that you have received the best training in the world, via Todai Dojo Ninjutu Academy. At first I was a little apprehensive to be that Ugly American training among a world-wide variety of Ninjutsu students in Japan. My fears were quickly allayed when I realized that I had a better foundation than 90% of the students training in Japan. You can rest assured that this academy is the real thing and that you are being prepared to practice the art, from and among the best in the world. I'd give Todai Dojo 6 stars if: 1) Find a way to open on Friday, even if manned by one of the Instructors In Training, 2) Persuade Mrs. Woodard to teach more. No offense, but it is really cool to have some variety. Hey it took 7 flight instructors before I pieced it all together for my pilot's license. Mrs. Woodard is a fine asset to the academy. Go sign up for an introductory deal at the academy. Ninjutsu is a hard martial art to gain authoritative training in. There's a Mc Dojo on every street corner. This place is different. Matt Woodard is the highest ranked Ninjutsu Shihan in the area... maybe in the USA... and he's RIGHT HERE in Moorpark! Plus, he's really cool. What more could you ask for? read more

I've been training in different Bujinkan dojos over the years and I really enjoy this one. It is friendly but what you are taught is serious life skills to defend yourself but on a deeper level - self reflection and transformation. Scott and Pablo are great teachers and they are genuinely super nice people and well worth trying out. They are very knowledgeable and you learn something new and real world effective at every class. There is something very enlightening about the Bujinkan martial arts only to be realized when you seek it. I'm very happy at this dojo and I hope you will find your experience as rewarding as I do. read more

A couple of years ago my husband & I put attaining a black belt on our 'Bucket List', however, since then our training has proven to be more than just reaching a "goal in life". Our lessons teach us about a completely different culture, its history, & how the ancient art form of Taijutsu can be used & applied in our everyday living. Not only does the training provide a good amount of physical exercise, but it helps train our minds to stay alert, giving us a constant awareness of what's taking place around us at all times. Hence, I am much more comfortable, vigilant & attentive to my surroundings when I'm walking in public places like parking lots, shopping malls, along local streets or along the beach. I am being taught how to walk & carry myself, how to act in questionable situations, & to always be ready for the unexpected. Therefore, I can truly say I feel more confident, safer, alert, & aware of my surroundings & feeling as though I could handle an unfortunate confrontation should it ever occur. I would truly recommend to anyone who is concerned for their welfare & safety, or who may be hesitant on how to react if someone were to unexpectedly approach them, to consider training at this 5-Star Dojo, as they will not only learn the history of Taijutsu, but will take with them, useful applications which are extremely applicable in today's world. read more

Do you like, or are you intrigued by Japan, its people, culture and history? How about: Samurais or Ninjas and their way of life? Not only will you get an academic understanding of all that at the Todai Bujinkan Dojo, but you will learn about Japanese culture, language and utmost, the Ninja art of hand-to-hand, self-defense (Taijutsu). I believe that Taijutsu is the best martial art to study for most Americans...it's not about competing, being the strongest, or how street-wise you are, it's about training your mind, and conditioning your body (no matter what shape they are in), to practice the techniques that are taught, which eventually becomes an active part of your life. Some people call it an art, others call it a way of life, but I see it as growing as an individual. I have also been privileged to travel to Japan (group rate), with our Sensai (teacher) and fellow Ninjas to experience the modern-day Japanese culture, and then in contrast, the ancient art of Taijutsu with our Grand Master Masaaki Hatsumi. At the the Todai Bujinkan Dojo (the place where we train), we have fun, improve our mental and physical condition, no matter what age or handicaps we may have. Take it from the eldest member of the Dojo...I'm 69 years old. read more

The best secret of Moorpark. Todai Bujinkan is the art of ninjitsu. I did not believe it at first either and joined to get back in shape at the age of 35. To my surprise, the art is the real deal, involving awesome hand to hand techniques and all the weapons associated with ninjas. In addition, the teacher and students are all top notch and create one of the best learning environments I have experienced. The teacher is very skilled, well mannered, and very professional. The training is good for beginers and veterans. Coming from being a black belt in another martial art form, the lessons are both challenging and rewarding with plenty of application to the modern world. We practice several real world scenarios like workplace violence, street fighting, and defense against knives and guns. The facility is very clean, friendly, and affordable. No long term contracts or strange agreements. The price per class is a great deal for the "elite" training you will receive. Moreover, it is rare to find such a great combination of quality people all centered towards improving themselves and growing. Todai has a diverse body of students and age groups so you should not feel like you don't fit in. Joined about 4 months ago and it was probably the best thing I ever did. It has improved all areas of my life and is very entertaining. Try a free class and experience quality martial arts in one of the best environments around. read more

Great self defense practices, intense training and weapon self defense. I was sore after one class for days in areas I never knew could get sore. Great instructors who not only teach you the foundation but are so open to scenario questions and answers read more

Ever since I joined this Dojo, I've gotten a fantastic learning opportunity. The Dojo owner and Sensei Scott Hamilton is an excellent teacher, very patient and professional. This is the 1st time I truly feel like a Japanese Dojo that I see on TV, videos and documentaries. Also having the opportunity to travel to Japan to learn from the Masters directly is a great benefit you with this Dojo and the new tamshigiri (mat cutting) classes are excellent!. I cannot say enough good things about Scott Sensei and his Dojo and hope membership continues to grow. read more

Great training with a touch of humor makes this an excellent experience for anyone wanting to learn a martial art.

Todai Dojo's instructors and its students are amazing! After never taking martial arts in my life I was nervous about going for the first day but after the first class I felt already part of the family, everyone there is so nice and helpful! Now it's been two months and I can say I'm a lot more confident in my life and Todai has opened a new door in my journey in life. A must try for anyone from all ages! read more

The Todai Bujinkan Dojo deserves at least 5 Stars. Here's why: Many years ago I was searching for the right martial art and after months and months of frustrating visits to many Dojos I found Todai Bujinkan Dojo and immediately knew that this school of Ninjutsu was very special and its instructors were people with whom I would be honored to associate. I have been training here, locally, for over 12 years now and have also traveled twice to the the world famous Hombo Dojo in the small village of Noda City, Japan, in the outskirts of Tokyo to train with our Grandmaster and his top students of The Art. Training in Japan and locally under Shihan Woodard and now Shihan Hamilton and his top students has dramatically changed my life for the better from countless perspectives. Bullied as a kid, I am now blessed with confidence in my ability to protect myself and those that I care about. Although the school caters to students of ALL ages, at age 59, my physical well-being and mental awareness and well-being are are at an all-lifetime high. I also have a stronger spiritual well-being which I attribute in large part to my training. I once "introduced" this school and this art to a boy of a single Mom who I felt might benefit from being around Men and Women (but especially men) who might be good role models. The results were far better than I could have imagined. In time he achieved his NiDan (Second Degree Black Belt) and today he is an incredibly adjusted young man - confident and skilled. Although I could go on and on, I will end here. You will benefit if you chose to learn this wonderful art and meet the great people of The Bujinkan. I have no financial or other interest in this school. These are my honest and sincere comments about The Todai Bujinkan Dojo. read more

This place is amazing! I never tried a martial arts class before but it was always something that interested me, they offered a free class to see if it was something that I would like, and I was hooked right a way and knew I found what I was looking for! Its such a fun way to get stronger mentally and physically. The students and instructors are beyond nice and welcoming. The Dojo really has a family feel. What I love best is the authenticity of it all,the instructor and students are so knowledgeable about the teachings of traditional Ninjitsu. Learning new skills and using the weaponry is empowering and so much fun! Taking this class has really brought something special and positive into my life and I am so happy I found it. read more