Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts And Fitness

Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts And Fitness Tatsu Dojo is an authentic martial arts school and personal training studio for adults located in Loveland, Ohio. Wellness programs are for adults only, (18+).

Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness

We specialize in the following classes and services:

Aikido - Emphasizes evasion and blending techniques leading to joint locks, throws and ground fighting (grappling) to control an aggressive person. Our aikido classes are intended for self-defense, fitness and general body conditioning. Karate - We include principals from Japanese as well as Okianawan Karate D

o. True Karate is focused on self-defense and close-quarter combat. Karate training involves calisthenics, strength training and conditioning. Adults Only, Ages 18 and Up

Fitness
- Medical and Corrective Exercise
- Post Injury Rehabilitation
- Assisted Stretching
- Personal Training

Our personal training clients enjoy one-on-one sessions with a qualified, seasoned professional. We encourage you to visit us at www.tatsudojo.com or email us at [email protected] and start your journey today.

06/19/2026

Is Bone Conditioning A Waste Of Time?

Bone conditioning has been a staple of traditional martial arts like Kung Fu and Karate for many years. The "makiwara" or striking post, is usually nothing more than a piece of wood with rope or thin pad. I built the one I'm using here because I wanted the extra forearm training, similar what you might see on a Wing Chun dummy (Mook Yan Jong).

But isn't it dangerous? Won't you develop arthritis? Can't you get the same benefits by hitting a punching bag. Yes, all of these things are potentially true. A makiwara is nothing more than a tool, just like a punching bag. Without the proper instruction, you can hurt yourself pounding on a bag or board.

But striking dense objects is really the only way to condition your hands, forearms, shoulders, pelvis, hips, shins and feet to make your appendages weapons. Bones, muscles, tendons and nerves make adaptations over time (a long time) that vastly improve bone density. Keep in mind, the operational theory behind arts like Karate is to make every punch or kick count.

My personal goal has alway been to develop the ability to stop aggression with one strike or kick to either incapacitate an aggressor or at least make him think. Believe me, I'm still working on that.

If you live in our local area and you are looking for an adult martial arts dojo that offers training in Karate, Aikido and Jujutsu, give us a call at 513-600-2260 or visit us at
https://www.tatsudojo.com/martialarts

06/18/2026

Sit-Ups: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

Remember doing “curl-ups” during gym class in the 70s and 80s? Like the majority of “exercise science” back then, the information was a bit skewed.

In the first part of this video, I’m demonstrating the way a lot of people still do a sit-up and they wonder why their abs still feel weak and their neck hurts. Can you see how I’m yanking my head into flexion, pulling on my neck? How I’m rounding my lower back? Here’s what’s going on…I’m not using my abs, but my hip flexors and a little bit of my lats along with momentum...no stabilization, no adequate muscle work. But I bet you can pull 30 of these off right now.

In the second part of the video, my head is straight and supported only by my neck muscles. My back is arched and I’m moving slowly, placing the majority of the tension on my lower abdominals. Bet you can’t do more than 10 or 15 this way if you're not used to it. Like most types of functional exercise, it’s not fast or sexy, but it works and it’s safe.

I’m Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness in Loveland, Ohio. I specialize in helping adults in their 40s, 50s, and beyond to overcome chronic injury, increase strength and stamina in order to live their best lives. Call me at 513-600-2260 or visit us at https://www.tatsudojo.com/personal-training Free 15 minute phone consultations.

Do We Really Need Martial Arts Ranks?The ranking system used by most martial arts schools these days originated with the...
06/17/2026

Do We Really Need Martial Arts Ranks?

The ranking system used by most martial arts schools these days originated with the founder of judo, Jigoro Kano as a means to differentiate his numerous students. The idea of belt ranks became popular with other styles very quickly and obviously it's still used today.

Unfortunately, it has turned into something that Kano probably never anticipated: an overblown, money-making, misrepresentation of marital skills and ability. For many, it is the achievement of rank rather than the training that keeps them motivated and once the "square is filled," they either move on or stagnate.

Admittedly, back in the 80s I was also intrigued by martial arts rank, as though a black belt would give me some sort of super power. It wasn't until I lived and trained in Japan where the only belt colors were white, brown and black did I understand what it was really about; marking progress.

Yes, there are titles like "sensei" and "shihan," but these are honorary, not a symbol of lethality or greatness. And anyone who introduces themselves as "sensei" or "master,"...most definitely is not. Real masters never have the need to announce it.

However, I do believe that rank as a place. It's good for people to have goals and a system for marking progress. I believe it is equally important for students in a dojo to be recognized for their dedication and consistency. But you can always tell this by a person's attitude and external skills; not necessarily by a piece of cloth around their waist.

Looking for a dojo that has a realistic view of martial arts rank? Visit us at https://www.tatsudojo.com/martialarts

How To Get Stronger In Your 50s, 60s And Beyond I work with a lot of older clients who realize they need to get stronger...
06/15/2026

How To Get Stronger In Your 50s, 60s And Beyond

I work with a lot of older clients who realize they need to get stronger and healthier for longevity. But there are several reasons why some do not start a program or see progress with their current routine:

1) Fear. Nobody wants to get hurt trying to get healthy. Fear of resistance training mainly comes from either not knowing how to train or having had a bad experience with a trainer in the past.

2) Consistency. Building tangible strength takes time. As we age, losing muscle is a lot easier than putting it back on. If you do not stick with a progressive training program, you will not see results.

3) Motivation. The first two factors boil down to this one. Some times, the best way to address all three of these issues is to find a qualified and seasoned coach who understands safe and effective progression and who will take the time to explain your program.

I'm Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness. I am a Medical Exercise Specialist with over 35 years of physical therapy, rehabilitation, and strength training experience. I specialize in helping adults in their 40s, 50s and beyond to overcome chronic injury, build strength, balance and stamina in a safe environment. Our private one-on-one sessions are designed to address your specific needs and goals.

Call me at 513-600-2260 to book your Strength and Mobility Assessment. Or visit us at https://www.tatsudojo.com/personal-training to find out more.

Should Little Kids Learn Marital Arts?This is a picture from 1999 or so when my family and I lived in Georgia during a f...
06/10/2026

Should Little Kids Learn Marital Arts?

This is a picture from 1999 or so when my family and I lived in Georgia during a four-year military assignment. My oldest son, now in his mid-late 30s, nailed me with a knee shot to my thigh as he and his younger brother, also pictured here, were taught to do.

My kids had a choice growing up; you do sports or you train in martial arts but if it was the latter, they had to train with me. Why? Because I would have them train in all kinds of weather. They would do endless push-ups, sit-ups, jog with me, etc. They sparred with and without pads, learned how to throw, grapple and everything else I could throw at them. And they did it without too much complaining.

Here’s what they didn’t do…break boards, win trophies, wear patches or have multi colored belts. Their dojo was our backyard, the garage or the woods. Later, it would be the base gym where they trained with adults and had to keep up. Their training was harsh but it helped to make them into the formidable men they are today.

If you want your child to be involved in martial arts training, take your time in selecting the right teacher. Someone who speaks to your kids - - not you - - about training. Personally, I would be leery about contracts, multiple belt levels and frequent promotions. And remember, there is far more to discipline and respect than your child calling their sensei “sir” or “ma’am.”

If it’s fun and engaging all the time…it’s not martial arts. It should be mentally, emotionally and physically challenging.

Doesn’t sound like much fun for kids, right? I totally admit, the way I brought my kids up in martial arts is not the norm. But I honestly cannot think of a more loving way to raise boys into men.
https://www.tatsudojo.com/martialarts

Boxing And Nueroplasticity In Older AdultsNeuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to “rewire” itself by developing neural...
06/09/2026

Boxing And Nueroplasticity In Older Adults

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to “rewire” itself by developing neural pathways, which is an essential element in mental and physical health as we age.

During my time working in a nursing home in physical therapy, I frequently had patients do seated and standing boxing drills with me and it was a big hit…so the speak. This included people who had suffered a stroke, patients with Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders, even people who had suffered a TBI (traumatic brain injury).

Here’s the simple reason it works so well for people; patterns. Hitting mitts, punching bags, doing footwork and learning how to “bob and weave” are all exercises in developing patterns. That’s why boxing is great for nueroplasticitiy, cardiovascular fitness and conditioning. I use boxing routines with many of our strength and conditioning clients as well as folks who are here for balance issues.

I’m Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness in Loveland. I specialize in helping adults in the 40s, 50s and beyond with building strength, overcoming chronic injury and improving balance and stamina for daily living. Give me a call at 513-600-2260, DM me or visit us at https://www.tatsudojo.com/personal-training and book a strength and mobility assessment today.

Three Reasons To Do Farmer's Carrys I typically work farmer's carrys into strength routines, especially for clients with...
06/05/2026

Three Reasons To Do Farmer's Carrys

I typically work farmer's carrys into strength routines, especially for clients with chronic shoulder issues. If you have been dealing with shoulder arthritis or tendonitis, chances are you have lost strength and stability which ultimately contributes to more pain and discomfort. So, here are three reasons to try this exercise:

1. Stabilization. Farmer's Carrys strengthens the entire shoulder complex, including the shoulder blade (scapular) muscles, especially if they are performed correctly.

2. Safety. This is an isometric contraction of the upper traps, rotator cuff and scapular muscles. So, for someone suffering from tendonitis, an isometric (static) contraction presents far less risk of further inflammation while still building tone and strength.

3. Balance. For some of our older clients with balance and gait issues, this exercise not only requires functional posture, but also proprioception -- basically, how your brain guides your body through movement. Even light weights effect balance which in turn, increases neuromuscular demands.

I'm Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness. I specialize in helping people in their 40s, 50s and beyond in building strength, stamina and over coming chronic injuries. I see one person at a time and develop programs to fit each individuals who comes through the door.

Give me a call at 513-600-2260, DM me, or visit us at
https://www.tatsudojo.com/personal-training

The Dojo House I recently had my annual eye exam and the optometrist saw my shirt with our Tatsu Dojo logo and asked whe...
06/04/2026

The Dojo House

I recently had my annual eye exam and the optometrist saw my shirt with our Tatsu Dojo logo and asked where I trained. When I told him that our dojo is right here in Loveland, he said, “Oh, you’re the dojo house.” And the fact is, this is not the first time I’ve taught martial arts classes out of a garage. Our first garage dojo was out of our home in Milford. Three days a week my neighbors saw people training in our two-car garage, the driveway and the backyard. I am surprised and relieved no one ever complained about the occasional yelling or the cars lined up in front of our house.

You know, before beautiful facilities with lots of space and showers, many teachers like myself trained people out of their homes or in parks. During my Air Force career, I taught classes in the base gym, usually out of a racquet ball court or a small room.

Ours is a “budo” dojo: A place (Jo) to study warrior principles (Bu) for the sake of physical and mental discipline (Do). And, we’re an adult only school offering instruction in Aikido and Karate. It is actually a very unique place to study martial arts.

If you live in our local area and you are interested in returning to martial arts or you’d like to begin training, call me at 513-600-2260, DM me or visit us at
https://www.tatsudojo.com/martialarts

06/02/2026

Three Ways To Improve Triceps Kickbacks

Kickbacks are a great exercise for isolating and developing the triceps and I frequently have our strength training clients work them into routines. But some folks have told me they stopped using this exercise because they didn’t really feel it working. Well, as usual, there’s a reason for that.

One is the amount of resistance. If you are not slightly struggling on the last two-three reps to extend your elbow all the way…you’re not using enough weight. On the other hand, if you can hardly extend your elbow during one set, you’re using too much weight. “Balance, Daniel-san.”

Second is positioning. You want to ensure your chest is parallel to the ground and that the opposite leg and arm are supported on a standard weight training bench.

Third and most important is mechanics. I usually have new clients demonstrate how they are performing this exercise and more often than not, they “swing” the dumbbell rather than use slow, methodical motion like you see me doing here. As you can see, my elbow stays in line with my torso and I’m contracting my posterior shoulder/scapular muscles to stabilize the dumbbell.

Try a triceps kickback the next time you’re at the gym and see if you don’t feel the difference.

I’m Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness in Loveland, Ohio. I specialize in helping adults in their 40s, 50s and beyond regain or maintain strength, overcome chronic joint and muscle pain and increase their activity. If you are looking for a unique training experience, call me at 513-600-2260, DM me, or visit us at
https://www.tatsudojo.com/personal-training

Why Would You Go To A "Dojo" For Corrective Exercise And Strength Training?Well, normally you wouldn't. When people hea...
05/29/2026

Why Would You Go To A "Dojo" For Corrective Exercise And Strength Training?

Well, normally you wouldn't. When people hear the word "dojo," they tend to think of little kids in white pajamas breaking boards or perhaps people fighting and practicing self-defense.

But it might interest you to know that not too long ago, many martial arts teachers were also purveyors of health and healing arts. For example, Professor Henry Seishiro Okazaki, founder of Danan Ryu Jujutsu also saw people on a regular basis for massage and healing arts known as "kapo." In fact, kapo is still a part of the Danzan Ryu curriculum. I know this because I trained in a derivative of this art many years ago.

Traditional Japanese martial arts like karate and aikido, the arts we teach here at our dojo, are predicated on posture, strength training, and a holistic approach to life.

Most of our training clients are referred to me for chronic issues like arthritis, loss of strength, balance and other issues. When I train people, I not only do it from a clinical background, but I also draw from over 40 years of martial arts training. I cannot think of a better combination.

Looking for Corrective Exercise or Martial Arts in the Loveland area? I am Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness. Call me at 513-600-2260, DM me or visit us at
https://www.tatsudojo.com

Address

6669 Branch Hill Guinea Pike
Loveland, OH
45140

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 8:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 8:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 8:30pm
Thursday 8am - 8pm
Friday 8am - 2pm
Saturday 8am - 12pm

Telephone

+15136002260

Website

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