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Hanshi Tony Annesi
- A Martial Artist Since 1964
- 10th Dan, Takeshin Aiki
- 10th Dan, Takeshin Karate
- 6th Dan, Shotokan Karate
- 2nd Dan, Judo
Affiliations
- Member of the Advisory Council of Nippon Kobudo Renmei (NKR)
- Member of the Steering Committee and Hanshi of the International Society of Okinawan/Japanese Karate-do
- Member of Three Martial Arts Halls of Fame
Takeshin Sogo Budo
Takeshin Sogo Budo (Bamboo Spirit Integrated Martial Ways) is a comprehensive martial arts system blending traditional Japanese practices with modern innovations, specifically tailored for Western practitioners. Described as kakushin na densetsu no budo or innovative traditional martial arts, Takeshin divides its training into three key areas.
Goken Budo (Hard-Fist Arts)
Rooted in Shotokan, Goju, Uechi, Shito, and Kamishin karate, this discipline emphasizes powerful, linear strikes and strong stances.
Juken Budo (Soft-Fist Arts)
Drawing from Daito-ryu, various aikido styles, Kamishin, and Kodokan judo, this practice focuses on fluid, circular motion and redirection of force.
Seiken Budo (Combined-Fist Arts)
A synthesis of the first two styles, it also includes weapons training (like the bo staff) and techniques from grappling and self-defense, offering a flexible system adaptable to various combat ranges.
Takeshin Sogo Budo is taught through Bushido-kai Kenkyukai, a research-oriented martial arts organization.
About Us
Founded in 1970, Bushido-kai originally focused on traditional Japanese arts such as judo, ju-jutsu, and karate. One of its prominent early members, Sensei Tony Annesi, eventually became the head instructor. He trained in multiple disciplines and holds advanced black belts in several martial arts, including Kamishin aiki-ju-jutsu and Shotokan karate.
In 1984, Annesi was named Soke-dai (inheritor designate) of Kamishin-ryu and received the title of Shihan Renshi (master instructor). Under his leadership, Bushido-kai became the Hombu Dojo (central school) for the style. After a divergence in vision from the federation’s leadership following the death of its founder, Shihan Albert C. Church Jr., Annesi chose to step away to avoid conflict.
At the request of former students, Annesi later formed Bushido-kai Kenkyukai and established Takeshin Sogo Budo, a new martial arts system that reflected his evolving philosophy. Unlike a shinkokai (focused solely on preservation), the kenkyukai is a research and development body, allowing for growth and adaptation within martial traditions.
Takeshin is considered a garyu, or personal style, based on Annesi’s interpretations of arts like Kamishin-ryu and Shotokan. It does not claim an unbroken historical lineage but instead honors its roots while welcoming innovation. Although open to incorporating effective methods from outside traditions, Takeshin remains grounded in traditional principles and structure.
The name Takeshin, meaning bamboo spirit, was chosen for its symbolic richness. In Japanese, “Take” can mean both “bamboo” and “martial,” while “Shin” means “spirit.” The imagery of bamboo evokes strength, flexibility, resilience, and beauty—qualities essential to martial practice. The term also pays tribute to the legacy of Sokaku Takeda of Daito-ryu and Sensei Annesi’s teacher, Albert Church, whose Japanese name was Takashi.
Ultimately, Takeshin Sogo Budo represents a balanced martial philosophy that bridges tradition and evolution, embodying both the hardness and pliancy of bamboo.
ENDORSEMENTS
Each time I train with Hanshi Annesi, I consistently underestimate him. His skill level exceeds anyone I have ever worked with, and more importantly, he has the ability of a master teacher to transmit those skills. –Steve Baroody, 03/04/12.
Kudos to Annesi Shihan. I have found him to be a superior teacher. He is always dedicated to imparting his knowledge and experience to those who wish to benefit. Shihan constantly strives to be a better and better teacher. I have reached the Master level in taekwondo and hapkido. I feel that the information and teaching provided through his varied DVD series has assisted me in understanding and performing martial arts. Yes. I put my money where my mouth is. I estimate that I have purchased at least $1,000.00 worth of his DVDs. Worth every single penny expended. Kudos to Annesi Shihan. –John Fennessey, 05/20/2012 via Facebook
…you are truly an American treasure of Martial Arts…. –-Prof. Wes Brown 7/29/12
I congratulate Tony Annesi for his character, dedication, and skill. I strongly encourage our black belt members to have an open mind and participate in his clinics, where you will get a different perspective and insights that may help you to advance your karate to a higher level. ––Masami Tsuruoka (founder of Canadian Karate)
I can barely express how great the master class was. [We] enjoyed it immensely. It was a great pleasure to work with so many dedicated and talented Martial Artists. I plan to be back as often as schedules allow. –Steve D’Orio, nanadan, Uechi karate-do, 2020
Annesi Sensei combines the softness of Aiki with the hardness of Karate to produce effortless power. His principles and teachings, like those of Tsuruoka Sensei, transcend martial styles so everyone can benefit. If you want to know how to raise your karate to a new standard look no further. Caution: For serious practitioners only. ––Jim Joe, Tsuruoka Hombu Dojo