Martial Arts Studio Finds New Roots in Dobbs Ferry

Attracted to Dobbs Ferry's "strong community vibe," Mushin-Kai Dojo has moved its Tarrytown studio to Ashford Avenue.

"...we absolutely fell in love with Dobbs Ferry and nearby Ardsley, so when we came upon the space at 212 Ashford, located in a quaint and historic building in a quiet neighborhood, we couldn't resist!" said Gabrielle Vazquez, Sempai and manager of the dojo. "We were particularly thrilled by the entrepreneurial spirit that is leading Dobbs Ferry in what some have described as a small business renaissance of sorts—something we really want to be a part of!"


Shihan Cruz and Vazquez first brought the studio to Tarrytown last year after Cruz taught in Queens for more than 20 years.

"We first started teaching at the Tarrytown Community Opportunity Center, then moved the classes to the nearby Hudson Harbor Clubhouse in Tarrytown and finally to our new location at 212 Ashford Avenue in Dobbs Ferry," Vazquez explained in an email to Patch.

In Dobbs Ferry, the duo hopes to "focus on teaching small classes to dedicated and promising students who are committed to the preservation and perpetuation of the traditional Japanese martial arts."

According to Vazquez, Mushin-Kai Dojo offerings a unique mix of classes.

In addition to three traditional Japanese martial arts styles taught at the studio—Shorei-Ryu Kenpo-Karate, Kosen Judo inspired Jujutsu 5.0 and Yoshinsenkan Aikido—there are also fitness classes and offerings for students ages four through 80+.

And all classes are taught by Cruz, who is a three-time 7th dan black belt in all three Japanese styles and are kept to a maximum of 10 students.

Vazquez and Cruz said they want locals to "fall in love with the traditional Japanese martial arts" and participate in the "community of other martial artists" the space offers.

Said Vazquez, "We look forward to welcoming like-minded martial artists and their families, to indulge in the tradition, safety and health benefits of the traditional Japanese martial arts.  We've been absolutely blown away by the welcoming nature of the Dobbs Ferry community and the many outstanding martial artists in the area who have already decided to join our ranks."

To learn more about Mushin-Kai Dojo visit its website (www.mushinkaidojo.com) or say hello at Ferry Festa on October 5.