WHAT IS ABK (ANDERSON BUSHI KAI)

Kin-Shinden Malcom Anderson has been training in the Martial Arts for over 50 years, starting in Melbourne in 1971 with Zen Do Kai, and obtaining his black belt in 1972.

After moving to Queensland in 1975 as a 3rd Dan he opened his own Dojo under Zen Do Kai (calling his clan Bloodaxe) and continued to teach and build Queensland Zen Do Kai to over 120 clubs.

However by 2001 Malcom realized that his vision of what the Martial Arts could be, was being limited by continuing to train under the Zen Do Kai banner and he made the tough decision to leave Zen Do Kai behind and, along with many of the high ranks that had been training with him for 30+ years, he moved away to develop his own style, Anderson Bushi-Kai (ABK).

Now while ABK is an Australian based Freestyle Martial Art its roots go all the way back to Okinawan Goju (developed by the Okinawan master Chogun Miayagi).

From the outset, ABK has been a dynamic and versatile Martial Art that combines all the aspects of traditional Goju (Kata’s, Weapons, strikes and blocks etc) along with techniques and principles from various other disciplines, allowing practitioners to develop a style that suits their individual strengths and preferences. 

Unlike traditional Martial Arts, which often follow a set curriculum and rigid techniques, Freestyle Martial Arts emphasize creativity and adaptability, encouraging practitioners to explore and experiment with different movements, strikes, and grappling techniques by incorporating elements of Karate, Kickboxing, Boxing, MMA, Judo, Jiu-jitsu, and more.

This approach to Martial Arts training allows for a greater degree of self-expression and innovation, as well as the ability to respond effectively to a wider range of situations and opponents. ABK is not only an excellent form of exercise and self-defence, but helps practitioners build strength, agility, and confidence while also developing practical skills for real-world situations. Whether you are a novice, or looking to develop self-confidence or learn Self Defence, or a seasoned Martial Artist, ABK offers a unique and exciting approach to training that is sure to challenge and inspire you.

Malcom’s innovative thinking and ways of teaching have influenced hundreds of people throughout Queensland creating some of the strongest higher ranks in any system. He has continued to expand and refine ABK by establishing higher rank gradings (6th, 7th& 8th Dan) and delving into the more spiritual side of the martial arts, including studying shamanism, runic language, mindset and mental projection.

In today’s challenging world it is becoming more and more important to nurture our mental health and embarking on a Martial Arts journey with ABK will not only enhance physical fitness and teach Self Defence but will also cultivate these essential life skills. 

These attributes will not only empower you to face challenges head-on but also make a lasting impression on others. Through dedicated practice and perseverance, you will develop a strong sense of self-assurance that radiates in your actions and interactions, earning the respect and appreciation of those around you while also enhancing your ability to protect both yourself and your loved ones.

This exploration of mindset and mindfulness, sets ABK Martial Arts apart from other forms of self-improvement through fitness, as its capacity to be a lifelong journey is revealed to you. At whatever age you start practicing, young or old, ABK Martial Arts can be a constant companion throughout your life. The discipline and techniques learned continue to evolve and deepen as you progress, ensuring that the journey remains engaging and fulfilling throughout the whole of your life.