Business Details
20 Years
experience
Traditional Martial Arts Training in Greenlawn, NY
Shindokan Budo was founded to provide authentic traditional Japanese martial arts instruction rooted in centuries-old philosophies. Our school specializes in Dentokan Aikijujutsu, Iaido, and Tai Chi Chuan, offering structured programs for children, teens, and adults. With instructors holding advanced black belt ranks and decades of combined experience, we emphasize technical precision, mental discipline, and character development. Our curriculum integrates physical training with teachings on respect, perseverance, and self-awareness, following the Bushido code of conduct.Students progress through a systematic ranking system while benefiting from personalized attention in a supportive community environment. We maintain rigorous training standards while adapting instruction to meet individual needs, including specialized programs for children with unique requirements. Regular seminars and special events enhance learning opportunities beyond regular classes.
Services
Jujutsu
Aikijujutsu
Iaido
Tai Chi
Children's Classes
Teen Programs
Private Lessons
Summer Camps
Special Seminars
Weapons Training
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Experienced instructors with decades of martial arts expertise
- Comprehensive programs for all ages and skill levels
- Focus on personal growth and discipline through Bushido principles
- Community-oriented training environment with specialized children's programs
- Regular guest seminars with advanced martial arts practitioners
Services
Jujutsu
Our Jujutsu program teaches practical self-defense techniques focusing on joint locks, throws, and vital point strikes. Students develop physical coordination, mental focus, and situational awareness through structured drills and partner practice. The curriculum emphasizes efficient movement and leverage over brute strength.
Aikijujutsu
Dentokan Aikijujutsu combines traditional Hakkoryu techniques with modern applications. This system emphasizes fluid transitions between techniques, weapon defense, and pressure point manipulation. Training develops timing, spatial awareness, and adaptive combat response.
Iaido
Classical Japanese sword training focuses on precise cutting techniques, proper posture, and mental discipline. Students learn traditional kata that preserve historical combat scenarios while developing focus, coordination, and understanding of martial principles.
Tai Chi
Our Tai Chi program follows Yang style short form practice to improve balance, flexibility, and stress management. Slow, controlled movements cultivate internal energy awareness and promote physical rehabilitation through mindful exercise.
Children's Classes
Age-specific martial arts instruction for children aged 4-11 builds confidence, discipline, and physical coordination. Structured lessons incorporate games and activities to maintain engagement while teaching fundamental techniques and character development.
People
Andrew Kelapire
Head Instructor
Andrew Kelapire began martial arts training in 1990 and earned his Shodan in Hakkoryu Jujutsu in 2017. He received his Sandan in Dentokan Aikijujutsu in 2021 under Sandra Smith Shihan.
Deborah Tamborski
Head Instructor
Deborah Tamborski earned her Shodan in Hakkoryu Jujutsu in 2014 and achieved Yon Dan in Dentokan Aikijujutsu in 2024. She trains directly under Sandra Smith Shihan.
Sandra Smith
Shihan
Sandra Smith began martial arts training in 1991 and became the first woman to achieve Shihan rank in Dentokan Aikijujutsu. She also teaches nationally certified women's self-defense programs.
Frank Pfeiffer
Tai Chi Instructor
Frank Pfeiffer holds an internationally recognized black belt in Tai Chi from IKFF-Taiwan. He received his teaching certification from Grandmaster William CC Chen and has won multiple competition gold medals.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Dentokan Aikijujutsu, Iaido (classical swordsmanship), and Yang style Tai Chi Chuan programs for students of all ages.
Are there classes for beginners?
Yes, all our programs welcome beginners with structured instruction that adapts to individual experience levels and physical abilities.
What should I wear for my first class?
New students can wear comfortable workout clothing. We provide traditional uniforms for purchase after initial orientation.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes, semi-private and private lessons are available with head instructors for personalized training opportunities.
Are there family training options?
We encourage family participation through our children's programs and special events that accommodate multiple generations.
How do you handle student progression?
Students advance through a structured ranking system with regular testing opportunities and personalized feedback from instructors.
Reviews (5)
Arthur Dolan
Oct 18, 2021
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Shindokan Budo is a traditional martial arts school. I enjoy training with fellow students everytime I am there. The exercise is rewarding. We learn self defense techniques against attacker from many different situations. Come and try us out I'm sure you will not regret it.
Abrian Muccino
Aug 24, 2021
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I usually don't leave bad reviews, though this left an imprint on me. The people there were extremely friendly and welcoming, but when pulling one of the sensei's aside to correct him about the pronouns to use for me, he gave me a very awkward look and said "he'd just use my name" and then even failed at that. For a dojo who claims that "respect is always provided by the instructor", I sure wasn't respected. That respect shouldn't just stop as what you are use to. Your respect should extend to people from all walks of life, that includes trans and non-binary people. Respecting what people would
Scott Ham
Jan 25, 2019
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Our kids (and also my wife!) have been going to Shindokan Budo for about seven years. It has been an amazing experience for everyone. Our main reason for joining was to help with focus. What we found was an incredible community of people, adults and children, who help and support each other. Not only were my kids learning how to focus their thoughts and concentrate, they experienced positive mentorship from older children and how to apply that themselves. Combined with the added self confidence, exercise, and ability to defend themselves, and we couldn't be happier with our experience here. Sensei
Kim Zettwoch
Jan 04, 2019
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Incredible place to train. Sensei and the other instructors are amazing and there is a wonderful family environment.
Patrick S.
Aug 08, 2018
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A dojo truly like no other. Sensei Smith and her staff are absolutely incredible with kids of all ages, and adults of all abilities. My daughters have been attending for almost 10 years combined and have loved every minute of it. Extra curricular events like Night of the Samurai and the annual summer get together, truly foster an incredible family atmosphere.
