Meet our dedicated instructors. Each has trained for more than a decade in the Bujinkan and have taken multiple trips to the Hombu dojo in Japan.
Shidoshi Joe Massimo
Rank: 8th Dan – Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu
Joe Massimo began his Bujinkan training in 2011 under the guidance of Daishihan Larry Hembel. He passed his Godan test in September 2021, demonstrating the awareness and presence required of a Bujinkan instructor. He has visited Japan two times to learn from the accomplished instructors at the Hombu dojo, which has helped broaden his understanding of taijutsu and weapon movement. As of 2024, he holds the rank of 8th Dan, reflecting continued commitment to training and growth within the art.
Joe emphasizes a historical understanding of the Bujinkan arts and how they relate to the modern day. His movement and teaching tends to focus on situational awareness, fluidity, and the authentic application of traditional skills.
Shidoshi Ronald Martin
Rank: 7th Dan – Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu
Ronald Martin brings a diverse and disciplined background to his teaching, with experience in Tae Kwon Do, Eishin Ryu Iaido, Karate, and various internal arts including Chi Kung and Yoga. He has also taught meditation, incorporating mental and physical balance into his martial journey.
Ronald began his Bujinkan training in 2009 under Daishihan Larry Hembel. Over the years, he has trained extensively with senior Bujinkan instructors who have spent significant time in Japan, including Phil Legare, Pete Reynolds, Andrew Young, Ed Martin, and Jack Hoban. He received his Shodan in 2014 and continued his training in Maryland under Shihan Steve Golden.
He has traveled to Japan three times, deepening his study with Shihan from around the world. In 2018, Ronald passed his Shidoshi (Godan) test under the supervision of Soke Masaaki Hatsumi, administered by Phil Legare. He earned his Nanadan (7th Dan) in 2025 with the recommendation of Daishihan Larry Hembel.
Ronald emphasizes traditional movement, practical self-defense, and the deeper philosophical aspects of Bujinkan training.
