← Back to activities ·Back to martial artsYoseikan Budo
Historical origin
Japan
Japan — developed by Hiroo Mochizuki from the late 1960s
Type of practice
Unarmed and weapons
Yoseikan Budo is a Japanese multidisciplinary martial art developed by Hiroo Mochizuki. It brings together striking, throws, controls, pins and weapons work in one method.
About the practice
Founded under the name Yoseikan Budo in 1975, this method brings together several technical families: strikes, joint locks, throws, pins, strangulations and work with traditional or padded weapons. Depending on the club and programme, a class may include technical study, forms, partner drills, weapons practice and sparring. The Yoseikan Happo kata illustrates links between techniques. The balance between these elements varies from one school to another.
History
Hiroo Mochizuki was born in Shizuoka, Japan, in 1936, and is the son of martial arts teacher Minoru Mochizuki. After developing his method from the late 1960s, he officially founded Yoseikan Budo in 1975. The discipline later spread in France and internationally, with technical and sporting formats that have continued to evolve.
Philosophy & principles
Yoseikan Budo seeks to connect different techniques through movement, positioning, rhythm and coordination. Training develops adaptable responses across different distances while encouraging controlled practice and respect for one’s partner.
Who might enjoy this practice?
It may suit people looking for varied training that combines striking, throws, controls and weapons. Ask a local club how it introduces beginners and how much sparring or competition is included.
Level of contact
Varies by practice
