Leo Byrd is currently a fourth degree black belt in Ju Jitsu and has been training since the age of nine. At 18 years old, he received his first black belt in Ju Jitsu from the California Branch of Ju-Jitsu under founder Professor Jack Seki. In 1990, he broadened his knowledge of the martial arts by studying karate at The International Karate Association in Pasadena, CA. Under the tutelage of Shihan Tom Serrano, he received his second degree black belt. Byrd's curriculum is a combination of the two Japanese disciplines. He brings to his students a personal and individualized program, constantly developing unique challenges from his experience on the streets. Outside of school, he is a professional bounty hunter. He motivates his students with his unique ablility of positive reinforcement and constructive correction. Students are encouraged to realize their full potential in a comfortable training environment. His shomen represents his philosophy of Gonosen...drawing out the attacker. Strength comes from the ground. Fire represents the intensity of focus and concentration. Wind reminds us that speed and accuracy come with practice. Water signifies flowing with your opponent so you can adapt to his movements. Void...empty the mind, so your body can react.

Shomen Japanese Characters (Kanjii) Explained:

• top left: Wind
• top right: Fire
• bottom right: Water
• bottom left: Ground
• middle: Void