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Our Philosophy

THINK STREET. TRAIN SPORT. PRACTICE ART. LIVE LIFE.

Make the rest of your life YOUR masterpiece. Do something that makes you feel joy, empowered, and strong, everyday.

 

TRAINING, REFINED

Bindner Academy is built for adults 35+, kids, and teens who value quality, structure, and purpose in how they spend their time.

Many of our members are professionals balancing demanding careers, families, and responsibilities. They’re not looking for chaos, ego, or injury—they’re looking for a disciplined, intelligent way to train.

A MORE THOUGHTFUL APPROACH

We teach martial arts through principles, not memorization.

From your first class, you’ll learn how to:

  • remain composed under pressure

  • move with efficiency rather than force

  • make clear, effective decisions in uncertain situations

Training is introduced in a controlled, cooperative setting and progresses carefully to resistance—so your skill develops with confidence, not guesswork.

DEPTH OVER VOLUME

Rather than chasing endless techniques, we focus on a smaller set of high-value skills—refined through repetition and understanding.

This approach leads to:

  • faster, more consistent progress

  • greater retention

  • reduced risk of injury

A PROFESSIONAL TRAINING ENVIRONMENT

Our classes are intentionally small. This allows for a higher level of coaching, attention, and accountability.

You can expect:

  • a structured, methodical curriculum

  • a calm, focused atmosphere

  • training partners who value safety and respect

NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Many of our members start with no background in martial arts—and often with some hesitation.

If you’ve ever felt that typical gyms are too intense, too unstructured, or simply not designed for you, you’re not alone.

We’ve built this program to be approachable, without lowering the standard.

THE LONG-TERM VALUE

The benefits of training extend beyond the mat: clearer thinking under pressure, improved physical awareness, and a steady sense of confidence.

This is not about short-term intensity. It’s about long-term capability.

START TRAINING

If this approach resonates, the next step is simple.

Join us for a class observation and experience what focused, deliberate training feels like.

Martial arts training is very powerful and life changing when the philosophy and the teacher align with the students’ values, goals, and expectations.

LET OUR PASSION INSPIRE YOU!

Derek Bindner with Dragan Konjevic Brazilian Jiu-jitsu seminar in London, Ontario
Derek Bindner with Mark Divine at SEALfit training in San Diego, California
Derek Bindner with Royler Gracie training in Woodbridge Ontario
Derek Bindner with Jacare Cavalcanti training in Kitchener
Derek Bindner with Jeff Joslin training at Krav Maga in Waterloo
Tae kwon do Olympic team tryouts in London, Ontario in 1987
Derek Bindner with Danny Moroney BJJ seminar in London, Ontario
Derek Bindner with Henry Akins training BJJ in Toronto
Derek Bindner with Jaques Payet training Aikido in London, Ontario
Japanese Ju-jitsu seminar in London, Ontario
Derek Bindner with Roy Harris training in London, Ontario
Bravado Brazilian Jiu-jitsu seminar in London, Ontario 2006
Derek Bindner with Henry Akins Brazilian Jiu-jitsu seminar in Toronto
Kamakura, Japan instructor course graduates
Derek Bindner Instructors course teaching in 2010
Self-protection training at Fanshawe College
Mugen Juku Kyoto dojo in Japan
Japanese instructors
1987 Tae Kwon Do school

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519-872-0992

© 2026 by Bindner Academy

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