Traditional Wisdom
for a
Modern World

At The Vancouver Traditional Martial Arts Dojo, our training is the result of countless generations of martial arts practitioners working tirelessly throughout their lives to provide the optimal strategies for living a successful life.

 

Whether it is Karate, Tai Chi Chuan, Kobudo (traditional weapons) or Jujutsu, these practices all require hard work.

 

Discover the highest mental, physical and spiritual version of yourself you’ve ever known.

Check out our

5 ★★★★★
Google Reviews

Richard Cunningham
Richard Cunningham
May 19, 2022.
I came to this Dojo to learn Tai Chi in a way that honours its martial heritage - Lucas does not disappoint! Self defence, active meditation, and physical activity all in one.
MIGUEL MARTINEZ CEJA
MIGUEL MARTINEZ CEJA
November 29, 2021.
Parents/Children class is great for everyone. You must give it a try to keep the little ones excited and active. Very warm and welcoming group.
Matt Inkredamine
Matt Inkredamine
November 24, 2021.
I love Vancouver dojo! Sensei Lucas has a really great way of teaching that makes learning martial arts a good mix of fun, but also seriousness. I have learned many new skills and doing the Tai Chi classes has benefited both my mind and body. Thanks Vancouver Dojo!
Pete Giesbrecht
Pete Giesbrecht
August 29, 2021.
I am very happy to hear that they will not discriminate. Stay strong!!
Ruth Friedheim
Ruth Friedheim
September 16, 2020.
Lydia Hentschel
Lydia Hentschel
July 26, 2019.
I train here with my young daughter - it's perfect for us and doesn't fall into any of the negative stereotypes that surround a lot of North American martial arts training. The instructor is very even and relaxed - he wants you to succeed and will push you to a degree that he knows is appropriate for the individual, but there are no overly "macho" or "militaristic-like" attitudes here. He keeps it a friendly and safe environment for everyone and doesn't let anyone's ego go unchecked. The dojo offers three types of classes: adult karate, adult tai chi, and kids (plus parents if they'd like) classes. My daughter and I attend the karate classes, while my partner attends the tai chi class. The tai chi taught here is real tai chi - it's not just a type of exercise class, it's a proper martial art and you will be taught how to apply the techniques to defend yourself. In the summer, and if the weather is good, there is also a combined tai chi/karate class on the weekends that is held in a nearby park which makes for a great change of pace. Overall, if you're looking for a great place to train and become part of a small dojo family, this a perfect place to do it.
Alex Hentschel
Alex Hentschel
July 25, 2019.
Our entire family (two adults, one kid) have been training at the Vancouver Dojo for a couple of years now and we have had a very positive experience. It's a smaller dojo with a personal and friendly atmosphere. I am participating in the Tai Chi training. It's a great balance between learning and refining the Tai Chi forms, but also learning the underlying applications originating from martial arts.
Paul Breau
Paul Breau
July 6, 2019.
Sensei Lucas is an experienced and supportive martial arts instructor. The Vancouver Dojo is an excellent place to practice traditional karate and tai chi. My daughter and I have practiced karate at the Vancouver Dojo for the past two years. We enjoy developing our skills and have made lasting friendships with other students. Sensei Lucas works with each student and helps them discover their own best potential. If you're thinking about studying a martial art like Karate, Jujutsu, or Tai Chi, I highly recommend Sensei Lucas and the Vancouver Dojo.
Dave Gowans
Dave Gowans
July 6, 2019.
I've been training here for 8 yrs now and my 11 year old daughter for 3 yrs. Sensei Lucas is a kind, knowledgeable and skilled martial artist an excellent teacher. He is great with kids, encouraging them to reach new heights of confidence both mentally and physically. As a parent and a student I suggest you try this dojo if you are interested in a traditional style of Karate for yourself or for children.
LS
LS
May 14, 2019.
So thankful for a dojo and community of this calibre on the west side!

Why Train in Martial Arts?

Training in the martial arts is an all-encompassing endeavour, involving body, mind and spirit. The martial arts serve as a well-rounded exercise routine including warm-ups which are integrated into the practice. The mindset of the martial arts emphasizes discipline, patience, self-confidence and respect.

Personalized Instruction, Over Two Decades of Experience

Lucas Trottier Sensei has been training and teaching in the martial arts for over two decades and continues to study and develop his skills on a daily basis.

In his work with students, both children and adults, he dedicates time and energy into understanding each person on an individual level to help develop their skills and create a comfortable yet challenging environment for beginners and advanced practitioners alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I decide where to train in the martial arts?

Choosing a dojo is more than simply choosing a tradition of martial art. To truly benefit, you need an instructor who is as invested in your learning and growth as you are.

Lucas Sensei has a dedicated student membership which is a testament to his ability to keep students enthusiastic about training and keep classes fun yet challenging.

We offer a free trial week which grants you access to any of our classes at no cost and no obligation. Sign up and try us out!

What traditions of martial arts do you teach?

Lucas Trottier Sensei is trained in the Shorinji Ryu tradition as well as Yang-style Taijiquan and Daito Ryu Aiki-Jujutsu.

As of 2022, he began his training with Richard Mark Sensei who is the western representative for the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai International Division.

Do you have a beginner's class?

Classes include students of all levels. When a beginner joins a class for the first time, the instruction is adapted to welcome the new student and make them feel comfortable.

More experienced students assist newer students. Not only does this mentorship encourage students to maintain a helpful mindset, it also encourages learning and solidification of skills through teaching.

Am I too old/young to join?

There is no maximum age to training. Keeping the body and mind healthy and focused is one of the key reasons training was developed. It is for all ages.

Kids & Parents Karate at the Vancouver Dojo is designed for kids ages 5 to 8 years old and assumes one parent at minimum will be involved in training alongside their child.

Kids 8 years old and older may train without a parent, though we strongly encourage parents to join as well.

Can I join with a shoulder/back/knee etc injury?

Injury management is all about paying attention and being careful in the approach you take to your exercising. A mindful practitioner will use the injury to better understand how to make more of having less. Training can also provide a useful form of movement rehabilitation after injuries if the practitioner is careful and moves in the correct way.

A New World of
Challenge and Community
Awaits You

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