1
We believe respect, commitment, and perseverance will lead to success.
Our Philosophy
Our training brings together the mind and body to teach each student to focus in the moment. Our tenets are rooted in diversity, equity, and inclusion; living in a peaceful and safe environment and having the right to defend ourselves.
We embrace respect as the foundation of discipline, humility, and growth. We show our respect through listening attentively, following traditions, and maintaining a positive attitude.
We also emphasize respect extends beyond physical training. It includes honoring the art, showing courtesy to training partners, and carrying the dojo’s values into everyday life (at home, at school, at work).
Our Tenets
2
We respect everyone.
3
We do not discriminate against any aspect of human life.
4
We promote living in peace with all living creatures.
5
We do not initiate aggression in any form.
6
We believe in patience, humility, and belief in ourselves.
7
We believe endurance will make us strong.
8
We advocate the value of self-defense for all.
9
We believe in a positive learning environment.
10
We believe in being prepared with the confidence to protect ourselves.
Our Approach
Our private and small group instruction offers an enriching experience for our students. We provide focused instruction that gives each of our students a high level of training, predictable outcomes, and a strong opportunity for success.
We teach our students why we do what we do, the history of our practice, concepts of awareness, prevention and response, and other “lecture-style” sessions. We don’t skim over concepts; we want our students to understand and practice them and we make them an integral part of their experience.
Meet Master Mark, Our Chief Instructor
Photo by Brian Clay Photography
Master Mark has over 40 years of experience in the martial arts. His training includes formal practice in Jukaido Kan Karate Do, Hapkido, Judo, Tang Soo Do, Krav Maga, and Uchudo. In late 2025 Master Mark started a new journey in Ryukyu Kempo, and is humbled to still be a white belt in training.
- 4th Dan Uchudo
- 3rd Dan Tang Soo Do
- Certified in CPR & AED, American Heart Association
- Certified in First Aid, American Heart Association
More than skill drives Master Mark’s passion for teaching martial arts. Throughout his early school years, he experienced bullying on a daily basis. He understands first-hand the fear and insecurity one experiences at the hands of bullies. Now he has the training and knowledge to teach others in similar situations how to overcome the challenges of bullying and other social insecurities.
Master Mark’s personal experiences have given him a genuine empathy for those from marginalized communities who are targeted simply for their differences. Because of this, the core values The Traveling Dojo follows and teaches to our students are based on:
- Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Promoting peace
- Building confidence to overcome life’s challenges
- Protecting yourself
If you are struggling with bullying, exclusion, or personal attacks due to your neurodivergence, sexual orientation or gender identity, personal traits, appearance, or anything that makes you the person you are, then Master Mark wants to help you develop the tools to approach and overcome these challenges with confidence! We invite you to take 6 to 9 minutes to read Master Mark’s article on How Martial Arts Can Help Those Who Have Experienced Exclusion, Bullying, Seclusion & Restraint.