In western society, Sensei means teacher of a martial art or style, which is not distant from the original meaning, which is "teacher".

A Sensei is typically the central person in a Dojo (Place of the way (School)). A Sensei's ability to teach techniques to students as well as knowledge of the art in which he or she is passing on is of great importance. A Sensei must clearly understand and be able to clearly interpret the techniques as well as the arts technical aspect to his or her students. He or she must also be able to teach students the techniques in the system with the understanding of how to not injure your fellow students, by explaining the interior aspects, fundamentals and principles of the technique that is being applied and how it affects the person it is being applied to.

Some students may think that as the Sensei gets older his power and strength become weaker, which could not be further from the truth. Where one's physical strength might seem as though it is less than that of a more aggressive younger student, the mental strength and knowledge in which a Sensei possesses is far greater than any student could possibly imagine, and with very little force being applied to the techniques, can easily cause as much as, or greater affects of the technique being applied, using much less energy. For example, a punch or a lock that appears weaker because the Sensei stops short in teaching could be much more devastating when his or her full energy is focused into the application of the technique. A student should realize, that no matter what level his training is, his Sensei is capable of things he's not even aware of.

The knowledge a Sensei can provide his students is not something that you can buy in a store, or learn from a video, as with every technique comes a question, and with whom would you propose this question other than your Sensei.

A good Sensei will always be testing his or her students, in more than just their ability to apply a technique. Things like appearance, punctuation, presentation, attitude and the effort a student applies are just a few of the things a Sensei will be looking for in each and every student, and can affect a students overall appearance to the Sensei. For example, how a student reacts when chosen to Uke for Sensei, does he or she step forward with enthusiasm or does he or she display unwillingness or sluggishness when stepping forward.

Students should understand that it is a privilege to gain the knowledge a Sensei has to offer them and in turn should show their appreciation by respecting the Sensei and the Dojo and give 100% commitment at all times.

A student should also understand that with time, as the Sensei grows, a student will grow as well. A Sensei will be able to better explain techniques to students in a manner that everyone can understand and follow with good accuracy. For example: a student at say blue belt level a year ago would not have as in depth knowledge as a blue belt student in another year.

The Sensei applies a lot of his or her knowledge to the betterment of the art or system in which he teaches, to provide his or her students with better, working techniques. In previous years, and will probably continue for many years to come, Sensei has released a newer version of the curriculum for this very reason.

A situation arises that a technique fails, Sensei than makes a decision to remove that technique from the curriculum. Or another example would be a situation, which occurred that did not have a defense technique for it, and it was then added to the manual.

A promotion, acknowledgements etc. are only a few examples of changes that can be made to make the manual better, and a student better understand our style or system. A Sensei is tested all the time, by his peers, students, public, by just about everyone that he encounters who may request something of his or her art or style. To be a good Sensei takes 100% commitment to the art or style at all times, on and off the mat.

It is worth the time to find a good Sensei to learn from, even if it takes a few years, as those years will be made up in the skill level of the teaching that is provided to you. We strive to be the best and produce the best in you.