TBKD discourages members from cross training outside of DNBK-affiliated dojos. Learning the basics of one style is very challenging. Learning the basics of more than one style simultaneously means that one or both forms suffer. However, we do encourage intermediate students to become familiar with the basics of other disciplines within DNBK, as our basic forms overlap significantly. Advanced students are actively encouraged to dedicate more time to their chosen discipline and to add substantial time to cross train in other DNBK disciplines to strengthen their foundation. All training is tailored to each student's abilities. The instructors firmly believe that you get out of the training only as much as you are willing to put in.
Karate Karate is often translated as the "Art of the Open Hand" which is interesting as many people view Karate as represented by the closed fist. Karate as taught at TBKD combines many practices of Aikido (also taught at TBKD but at a separate dojo), the "open hand", as well as the closed fist, kicks, and elements of arm and wrist locks, throws and sweeps. The combination of mind, body, and spirit (Shin Ki Tai) is trained as a single entity (Ito) to be the most efficient and effective means of controlling a confrontational situation. We teach many "kata", flowing forms sometimes described as moving meditation. Most kata are performed by an individual, moving through proscribed positions with defined stances, attacks, and defenses. Other kata are performed with a second person providing a more direct and visible interaction between the "Uke" (attacker) and the "Tore" (defender). Note that even though we form an entirely capable unit in each of our students, we do not train fighters per se. Sensei Hamada of DNBK summed it up very nicely when he said that we do not train professional fighters, we train professional opponents. Other Our focus is improvement of self through continuous training and sharing among our many students and teachers throughout our organization. To this end, we travel to other DNBK-affiliated dojos in North Carolina, Virginia, and around the world. While we have a very well defined base of instruction provided by Sensei Hamada of DNBK, each instructor will teach with a different style, and each group of students will have a slightly different set of capabilities and interests. By visiting affiliated dojos, we share changing emphasis on techniques, execution, kata, physical conditioning, and skills. In addition to cross training opportunities between Aikido and Karate and Dojos outside the Triangle region, other styles such as Iaido, Kendo, Kobudo, Jiujutsu, and Heiho are available to members of TBKD through our affiliation with Honbu Bushin Kan Dojo in Virginia Beach, Virginia.