Sensei Brian Donaldson began his Martial Arts journey with Shotokan Karate-Do in 1974 in England. When he came to Australia, he felt that he should continue his venture, so began training again here. While training in Australia, he was taught by several high profile instructors including Sensei Tom Haliday, Sensei Kanazawa, Sensei Sumi and Sensei Takahashi.
In 1994, Sensei Brian Donaldson decided that he would begin training in arts other than Shotokan Karate-Do. He believed it was important to become an exceptional all-round Martial Artist rather than just have a background in one facet of Martial Arts. To date, some of Sensei Brian Donaldson's achievements in cross training include a 2nd Dan in Combat Hapkido, a 1st Dan in Jiu Jitsu, and a brown belt in Judo. In addition to this, he holds ranks in two other styles of Jiu Jitsu, two styles of weapons including walking stick, Kenpo and Hapkido. As well as this, Sensei Brian Donaldson has trained in Kali/Escrima and Brazillian Jiu Jitsu.
Sensei Brian Donaldson has trained under some of the best instructors in the world. As well as the afore mentioned instructors, these include Patrick McCarthy, Jeff Speakman, Dan Inosanto, John Pellegrini, Cacoy Cannette, Royce Gracey, Tino Cebrano, John Will, Kancho Tony Jackson and more.
Over the years Sensei Brian Donaldson has devoted his life to his Martial Arts. Whilst teaching does take up much of his time, he ensures that he trains regularly to keep his own standard up to scratch. It is this very fact that led him to his recent grading where he was presented a 4th Dan by Kancho Tony Jackson (10th Dan) and Sensei Graham Slater (5th Dan) of the International Martial Arts Association.
As well as his Martial Arts training, sensei is trained as a fitness instructor, sports trainer, masseur, and a qualified coach. Along with his vast teaching experience both in the fitness industry and Martial Arts, Sensei Brian Donaldson has extensive training in first aid including Occupation First Aid certification and 30 years experience in the subject.