“Your women's class made me feel at home with the concept of defending myself, and taught me the deeper meaning of all athletic training. It taught me that the only competition is with oneself. It also taught me that a woman's body is strong.

As a teacher, you really understood where your female students needed encouragement and challenges. Your class was safe, supportive, and collaborative.

You taught us about the five elements of nature, and how they underpinned Ninjutsu martial arts: water, wind, earth, fire and magic spirit. Shirley, for me, you were a magical teacher - every lesson was a wonderful surprise where strength I never knew I possessed was found.”

Thank you.
Sharon Graham, Winnipeg

“Did you ever find yourself walking down the street feeling afraid? I did, then I realized several years ago that I didn't want to feel afraid anymore but wasn't sure how to stop.

That's where martial arts came in. In some ways, martial arts are scary, they make you face your fear head on, but the amazing thing is that facing that fear and learning how to defend yourself is the most incredibly empowering thing that I've ever done.

When I first met Shirley, I was struck by her kindness, caring, and ability to connect with others, then I saw her in the Dojo and realized:
"Whoa...that woman is a warrior!!!"

A true woman warrior is able to walk in her own shoes, feel comfortable in her own skin, face her fear, find her bravery, and help others to do the same. I am so happy to have been taught by Shirley.

I would encourage any woman to step into the Dojo and take this adventure with Shirley, your inner warrior awaits you!”

 Sharon Forester-Jones

“Shirley Imaizumi lives and breathes her martial art. Not only does she approach and teach the importance of the physical aspects of self-defense and exercise, but the beauty of it as a dance and a meditation for the heart and spirit.

She embodies the true essence of what it means to be a martial artist - an evolving human being who grows through the wisdom of her own body and all parts of her life.

She has inspired and educated women and girls about their own power through her private classes, festivals and as director of OWMA. It's my pleasure to know her as a fellow martial artist and friend.”

Mimi Yano

"I've had the pleasure of training and teaching with Shirley Imaizumi for more than 15 years, and her enthusiasm for her martial art is always infectious!

Shirley's emphasis on total body training allows for an integrated approach to self-defense, and her gentle teaching style allows her students to find their way into the training in a way that is both safe and individually paced, and at the same time effective."

 Harry Posner aka Ace