Every Thursday 7:30 to 9pm
Habitat Health & Fitness 650 6th St SW, Winter Haven FL
FLORIDA BUDO Martial Arts of the samurai only in Winter Haven, FL
the way of the Samurai
The way of the Samurai
Silent dojo breathes
Echoes of the Warrior's code
Strength blooms in stillness
At Florida Budo-Shokuju Dojo, we teach martial arts as a way of life. The name "Shokuju" translates to “nurturing trees,” it reflects our belief in cultivating growth, resilience, and balance, qualities essential in martial arts and life itself. Rooted in the traditions of the Bujinkan Dojo, our training includes Kenjutsu (swordsmanship), Bojutsu (staff techniques), and Taijutsu (unarmed combat). These disciplines build physical skill, mental focus, and emotional strength, offering timeless lessons from the samurai that extend far beyond the dojo.
Our philosophy at Shokuju is founded on respect, humility, and personal growth. With no competition or ego, we emphasize self-improvement at your own pace. Like nurturing a tree, our training helps students grow steadily and strongly. Kenjutsu hones focus and precision, Bojutsu builds strength and adaptability, and Taijutsu teaches balance and fluid movement—all while fostering discipline and confidence.
Start your journey with a free introductory class and enjoy the flexibility of our pay-as-you-go model, with no long-term contracts. Classes are priced at $20 for adults and $15 for minors. Join our supportive community and begin walking the path of Budo, a path of honor, strength, and transformation rooted in the principles of Shokuju.
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Our Instructors
The spine’s gentle flow,
Healed by hands in quiet grace
Like a passing breeze.
Bren Mahoney, Instructor
Developed a passion for the martial arts while in the United States Marine Corps. He began his training in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu in 2015. He is currently a Nidan or second degree Blackbelt and is proud to have been chosen to lead classes under the auspices of his teacher Victor Acevedo.
Look for us on Facebook and Instagram.
Our administrative team
In the blade’s shadow,
The heart casts its reflection
The wind comes to rest.
This haiku captures the moment of tension just before or after a decisive clash when both combatants understand that the battle isn't only physical, but deeply spiritual.
Tyler Donaway - Dojo Administrator
6th Kyu - Bujinkan Taijutsu
Grey Belt MCMAP
My name is Tyler Donaway. I’m a Honorably Discharged Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps and a combat veteran who served in Garmsir, Afghanistan, with the 1st Battalion, 6th Marines in 2008. My roles included Infantry Mortarman and Armored Humvee driver.
I’ve had the honor of teaching armored combat and sharing my passion for history through a Viking reenactment group focused on full-contact fighting and cultural education.
My love for Japanese tradition runs deep. I run a small kimono business and enjoy learning through hands-on crafts like sushi making, gardening, and woodworking.
Joining Florida Budo Dojo has been a humbling and inspiring step on my martial arts path. I’m here to train hard, stay curious, and walk the path of budo with respect for those who came before me.
Look for me on Facebook and Instagram.
Shugyosha - the Dedicated Martial Arts Practitioner
Calendar
Shugyōsha Victor Acebo
Biography
Biography
Shugyōsha (修行者) – The Dedicated Martial Arts Practitioner
The term Shugyōsha (修行者) refers to a dedicated martial arts practitioner who is deeply committed to rigorous training, self-discipline, and personal refinement. Unlike casual students, a Shugyōsha approaches martial arts as a lifelong journey of self-improvement, often engaging in intense and immersive training known as Shugyō (修行).
Victor Acebo is the Chief Instructor and guiding force behind Florida Budo. With decades of experience in traditional Japanese martial arts, Victor has dedicated his life to teaching and preserving the authentic techniques and philosophy of the Bujinkan Dojo. His expertise spans disciplines such as Kenjutsu (swordsmanship), Bojutsu (staff techniques), and Taijutsu (unarmed combat), offering students a comprehensive martial arts education.
Victor founded Florida Budo with a vision to create a supportive and non-competitive environment where individuals of all skill levels can develop their martial abilities and grow personally. Florida Budo emphasizes resilience, balance, and the cultivation of inner strength, reflecting the rich traditions of Japanese martial arts. Victor’s instruction is rooted in both the physical and spiritual aspects of martial training, fostering discipline, focus, and adaptability among his students.
In addition to his hands-on teaching, Victor is an Electric Utility Design & Safety Manager with over 35 years of experience in the electric utility sector. His expertise includes Engineering Support during the 9/11 World Trade Center.
Schedule your Free Trial Class
Fun & Stress-Free
Non-Competitive Training
Only $20 per class
No Contracts / No Obligation