Phoenix Quest Center for Martial Arts

I spent many years in traditional martial arts and I was getting burned out so I took a few years off to pursue other interests. After taking a few year off I wanted to get back into training. Every school I went to had forms (kata) high kicks and point fighting and if you were lucky the last 10mins of class you were shown a self-​defense technique I needed more, I was almost ready to give up and quit martial arts for good, it was then I found the Quest center, after talking to Mr. Stinson on the phone as he informed me that there was no forms or point fighting, I had to come in and take a class I couldn’t believe I was learning self defense the first day. After class Mrs. Stinson asked how I liked the class. I told her it was more than I expected. Reality-​based martial arts is what I always wanted to do, This system has so much to offer with an ever ending wealth of material. I have black belts in three other systems but this one is special.
As you get older it’s very important to keep your mind and body active and I find To– Shin Do does that for me. Not only physically but mentally as well, I learn something new every class and I think that’s great. To-​Shin Do gives me self awareness and confidence to deal with any situation that may arise. It’s a good feeling knowing you have the ability to protect yourself and your family if a situation came about.

I’ve been a student with the Phoenix Quest Center since 2011 and no matter what, I’m always left walking away from the Dojo feeling good, accomplished and most of all inspired. I’ve done some training in Muay Thai, I’ve gotten a few belts in Tae Kwon Do and even tried Aikido back in San Francisco when I use to live there. As much as I love and respect all forms of Martial Arts and feel each one is amazing and unique in their own right, for me the Phoenix Quest Center is my Dojo.
The PQC teaches To Shin-​Do Ninjutsu. A modernized version of Ninjutsu founded by Stephen K Hayes. I love it because it’s definitely a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The applications of the techniques are very practical, yet effective. Simple but complex, fun but challenging. Amazing yet deadly.
One of the key factors I found most interesting is the absolute psychological part of the training. From checking out other Dojos and styles and doing some from my past, the PQC definitely delivers a unique outlook when training in self defense and how it can be very beneficial in a real life situation. Understanding beyond an analyzed situation and truly emphasizing on being aware and mindful of your surroundings, is something I really love about the teachings and training here.
And everyone in PQC becomes your family and friends. From head instructor Michael Stinson to even a white belt who’s been there for 3 weeks. As soon as you get started in your training, everyone is willing to help and allow you to grow and give constant support.
I for one have grown a lot since I’ve started my quest here and I will continue to keep on growing and keep on training.
For anyone who wants to learn an amazing self defense system. Something that can help you be more confident with yourself and help you have a better understanding of being aware… come check it out. The Phoenix Quest Center might be what you’ve been looking for.

I have been a student of the Quest Center for quite some time, and I have had the pleasure of getting to know the owner and his wonderful family, as well as other instructors and longtime students.
This is no ordinary Dojo. This is home. This is where friendships are made, where respect is given and where tight bonds are formed. This is a place to learn and grow as a person, while developing skills to carry you through your every day life.
Instruction is friendly and effective, and given with the right mix of wisdom and relatability. Time-​honored techniques that have been adapted to fit into the world as is it today, are delivered in a way that is both efficient, and fun to learn. Students of every level can participate, knowing that there is always a way to improve.
As someone who has greatly benefited by the confidence I’ve gained while training at PQC, I highly recommend stopping in to check them out!