Way of the Orient Martial Arts Academy

WOTO is an amazing studio! As an adult, I started martial arts at WOTO less than a year ago. I feel much more confident and fit since starting at WOTO. The teachers are encouraging and do a great job with tailoring the class to the students present that day. For example, at adults-​only classes, the instructors often include more cardio work and practical applications of martial arts techniques. They are very aware of the fact that adults make an effort with both their time and money to train, and are very respectful of your effort even if you have never set foot in a dojang before. I have trained in all of the classes that WOTO offers for adults, including taekwondo, hapkido, weapons, (jo and bokken), and core-​strike conditioning. WOTO has a wide range of instructors, many of whom have achieved master level, to staff these classes.
The kid’s classes are also great. Although I do not have children, I have observed these classes and they are top-​notch. Kids get a great workout, learn martial arts, and have fun. They work on concentration, focus, and discipline within a fun and low-​pressure environment. There are many parent-​child «teams» at WOTO and it provides a wonderful bonding opportunity for them.
I highly recommend WOTO, whether you are a parent looking for a studio for your child, or an adult looking for a great workout.

As an adult who had never practiced martial arts I was a little nervous about starting. Was I too old? would I be able to do it? But the first time I walked in the door I was greeted by owner/​head instructor Thomas Ball and his wife, Jill, who did wonders to set me at my ease. WOTO is a family oriented, friendly school where they respect the fact that, as adults, we have already made an effort just to be there. They are accepting and encouraging. WOTO provides a structured workout that exercises the mind and body.
The classes are fun and challenging. From the first kick as a white belt you begin to develop new ways of thinking about the world and yourself. You also start to develop a good sweat. Through cardiovascular excursion and asking your body to move in new ways a sense of self develops that is otherwise impossible. Not to mention how gratifying it is to look back and remember how things that are easy now seemed impossible.
Great rates, wonderful people. If we hadn’t moved 2 hours away I’d still be there. (Indeed I am still trying to figure out a way to make that happen) It’s my plan to move back, keep training, and, when I have them, send my kids to master Ball as well!

«Never Say Can’t!» is the best lesson I learned from Master Ball and WOTO. I personally love a challenge, when structure, discipline and support go along with it.
Master Ball will never tell you to do something that he won’t do himself. The confidence to pursue anything after completing a training session at WOTO is inevitable.
Training with WOTO (from the age of 9 to my mid twenties) has been life changing, and I would not trade it for the world.
Take a class, take your kid (s) to a class, or just go watch. You will not be disappointed.

I like to be physically active, but in searching for a gym or fitness program I have often found myself disappointed in a lack of structure and support. I believe that in order to be successful in any physical pursuit, my mind has to be engaged as well as my body.
The instructors at Way of the Orient demonstrate mastery of the physical elements of their practice, but more importantly they inspire their students to excellence by demonstrating that their practice extends beyond the mat into their daily lives. They teach with strength and confidence, but not without humility and kindness.
I feel very fortunate to have Way of the Orient in Ventura County. The values and practices that they teach enrich our community. I highly suggest you (yup, you!) check them out.

I couldn’t be more happy with WOTO in Camarillo. Two of my little ones (ages 6 and 10) have taken lessons with Master Ball and his instructors for the last year, and I’ve been amazed at the change I’ve observed. The teachers are firm but still patient, and have an excellent ability to really reach kids. I about fell out of my chair the first time my previously ornery little boy snapped to attention and called me sir.
True and lasting self-​esteem, discipline, confidence and control is earned. Martial arts training is an excellent way to help kids earn this for themselves. And there is no better in Ventura county than WOTO.