About Us
What is Okuko Ryu Jujutsu?
奥光流柔術
Okuko Ryu Jujutsu is a modern evolution of traditional Hakko Ryu principles, enriched with philosophies that promote not only physical strength but also mental resilience and personal growth.
Our curriculum incorporates both unarmed techniques and training with traditional Japanese weapons and objects such as the tambo, jo, katana, tanto, sensu (fan), kasa (umbrella), walking cane, paper scroll and many more. These tools symbolize the adaptability and grace inherent in Okuko Ryu.
At the heart of our practice are the principles of datsuryoku (effortless power) and kuzushi (balance breaking). We use pain as a tool of distraction, blending it seamlessly with techniques that emphasize humility and harmony.
Okuko Ryu is a practice that goes beyond the dojo. It is a philosophy that guides decision-making, supports mental well-being, and enriches social interactions. We aim to empower our students, cultivating not just skilled practitioners but confident, humble individuals who embody respect and tradition in all areas of life.
Founder
開祖
Gust Bertels began his journey in Hakko Ryu Jujutsu in 1990 in Westerlo, Belgium. His dedication and passion led him to become uchi-deshi (personal student) of Soke Antonio Garcia in 1998. Over the years, Gust not only mastered the techniques but also delved deeply into the philosophies and mysteries of general Koryu, Hakko Ryu, Sin Ryu (Japan) and Hakko Denshin Ryu.
As Hanshi, Menkyo Kaiden Shihan San Dai Kichu and the first to receive the title of Worldwide Technical Director, Gust has dedicated his life to preserving and advancing the art.
Now, as the Founder 開祖 and Dōshu 道主 of Okuko Ryu, he strives to inspire practitioners worldwide with a martial art that emphasizes inner strength, tradition, and lifelong growth.
GRADING SYSTEM
At Okuko Ryu, we focus on the essence of learning thru motivation. Our grading system reflects the purity of the journey:
Mudansha 無段者
(Beginner)
Yudansha 有段者
(Dan Grades)
Shihansha 師範者
(master levels)
Shoshin 初品 (beginner, white belt)
Shojin 精進 (character building level, green belt)
Shidō 志道 (devoted mind level, brown belt)
Shodan 初段
Nidan 弐段
Sandan 参段
Yondan 四段
Koshi 光師 (master of the light)
Kageshi 影師 (master of the shadow)
Menkyo Kaiden 免許皆伝
(master of the concealed light)
certificate of full transmission
awarded from nidan level
after having received dojo licence
awarded by shihansha
awarded exclusively by Doshu Gust Bertels