A family-run club built on passion, discipline and a genuine commitment to every student's growth.
Genjitsu Martial Arts was founded in 1990 by Grand Master Ed Dillon with a clear and ambitious vision: to create one of the most effective, practical defensive martial arts systems in the country.
What began as a single club in Darwen has grown into a thriving organisation with two locations across Lancashire, in Darwen and the Ribble Valley (Mellor). But despite that growth, Genjitsu remains exactly what it has always been: a family-run club where every member is treated with genuine care and respect.
The Genjitsu system is multi-style in its approach, drawing on the most effective defensive techniques from across the martial arts world. The result is a system that is both comprehensive and practical, one that genuinely works in real-world situations.
Everything we do at Genjitsu is guided by a set of core values instilled from day one.
Martial arts teaches self-discipline like nothing else. The focus and control developed in our classes extends far beyond the dojo.
Respect for instructors, fellow students and, crucially, for yourself. It is the foundation of everything we teach.
Progress in martial arts is earned, not given. We celebrate effort, resilience and the willingness to keep going when things are hard.
We train to defend, never to aggress. The skills taught at Genjitsu come with a responsibility to use them wisely and only when necessary.
We hold ourselves to the highest standards, in our instruction, our facilities and the way we welcome and develop every student.
Genjitsu is a family, not just because the Dillons run it, but because of the genuine bonds formed between students of all ages.
From a single club in Darwen to two locations across Lancashire, this is the Genjitsu story.
Grand Master Ed Dillon establishes Genjitsu Martial Arts in Darwen, introducing his unique multi-style defensive system to Lancashire.
Word spreads about the quality and effectiveness of Genjitsu's instruction. The club attracts students from across East Lancashire.
Growing demand sees Genjitsu expand its reach, bringing the club to more of the local community across East Lancashire.
A third location in Mellor, Ribble Valley, extends Genjitsu's reach into a new area of Lancashire.
Genjitsu continues to grow under the leadership of Grand Master Ed Dillon and Master David Dillon, with hundreds of active members across all three clubs.
Unlike clubs that teach a single martial art, Genjitsu's multi-style approach draws on the most effective elements from across the martial arts world.
Grand Master Ed Dillon spent decades studying and refining techniques before creating a cohesive system that prioritises practical self-defence above all else. The result is a system that is both comprehensive and accessible, effective for complete beginners and highly rewarding for experienced martial artists.
Every technique taught at Genjitsu has been tested and proven. We don't teach theory, we teach what works.
Drawing on the best techniques from across the martial arts world.
Every technique has a real-world application.
Clear belt system with meaningful milestones for all ages.
Complete beginners through to advanced black belts trained simultaneously.
Genjitsu Martial Arts is affiliated with the UK's leading martial arts governing bodies, ensuring the highest standards of instruction and safety.
British Martial Arts & Boxing Association, the UK's leading martial arts governing body.
Member of the UK Martial Artists Forum, connecting elite instructors and clubs across Britain.
The best way to understand Genjitsu is to experience it. Your first class is completely free.