Aikido
Aikido is a Japanese martial art. Its purpose is to resolve situations in the most non-damaging way to both the attacker and the attacked. Aikido uses the opponent's energy against him/her. It concentrates on the flow and the redirection of the aggressor's energy using the least amount of energy of the attacked. There is an emphasis on focus without tension. Some would say it is the only true martial art, because it focuses on submission with the least amount of harm. Some would also say it is one of the most difficult martial arts to master.

Dux Ninjitsu
The purpose of this style lies in the development of self-character. Ninjitsu style trains in a manner that is suitable for street warfare and self-defense. This style trains, not only the body (strength), but also the spirit (tranquillity) and mind (wisdom).

Jujitsu
The term Jujitsu, translated as "ju" (gentle) and "jitsu" (technique), is an ancient Japanese martial art that incorporates yielding and using the opponent's energy to your advantage. This style includes joint locking or arresting techniques as well as forms of escape, throws, takedowns, and various defenses.

USC Kung Fu
The USC Kung Fu club, started in the early 70's, has continued uninterrupted to today making it perhaps one of the oldest martial arts clubs on campus. The USC Kung Fu Club practices the style known as MY JONG LO HAN or "lost track." It originated inn northern China and is a combination of two distinct styles - MY JONG (to confuse or to lose track) and LO HAN (the Buddha). YIP YU TENG (1892-1962) synthesized this style. It involves stages of strength training, boxing, stretching, intricate footwork, and hand-to-hand combat tactics.

Shinkendo
Obata Toshishiro Kaiso developed Shinkendo as a martial art that refocuses the modern training of Japanese swordsmanship back to the actual use of the shinken, or real sword.

Obata Kaiso uses years of training in martial arts and weapons experience in Japan to continually develop a strong, effective, and safe art in America. Winning cutting championships years in a row, Obata Kaiso helped solidify the standards behind tameshigiri (test cutting) practices which are now followed around the world today.

So far, Shinkendo has spread to more than 60 schools across multiple continents including the UK and Australia.

Revolving around the 5 equally balanced facets of training, students first train in the handling and swinging of the sword with suburi, then learn to execute solo techniques with the tanrengata, and learn to draw the sword and attack with the goho battoho, learn to execute paired combat techniques in tachi uchi drills, and finally practicing with the shinken in Tameshigiri.

Tae Kwon Do
Tae Kwon Do originated in Korea. It emphasizes a physical, scientific rational behind every movement to make it as efficient as possible. The purpose of tae kwon do is to enable the individual to realize their full potential mentally and physically. As with most Korean styles, it is characterized by kicking and sparring.

Karate
Karate in Japanese means "empty hand." This form of self-defense is one of the oldest and well-known forms of martial arts. It is the act of self-defense where the attacker is disabled by various techniques of powerful kicks, release holds, and punches.

Massage and Tai Chi
USC Recreational Sports does not offer massage or tai chi. If you have interest in massage, please contact the Recreational Office (213.740-5127) for referrals.

Each semester, the available style of martial arts and leisure classes are based on interest, availability of a qualified instructor, and available space for the class.

Yoga
A general form of yoga may be offered through the USC Workout (aerobics and fitness) program.