We understand that choosing a martial arts school is an important decision for you and your family. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our programs, the Don Jitsu Ryu system, and what to expect when you join the Purple Dragon family.
About Don Jitsu Ryu
What is Don Jitsu Ryu?
Don Jitsu Ryu is one of the most practical and complete martial arts fighting systems in the world today. Developed over five decades ago by Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob, it is modern in concept yet ancient in origin. The system blends traditional martial arts styles including Karate, Kung Fu, TaeKwonDo, Judo, Jiu Jitsu, Shotokan, and Weaponry, establishing it as one of the world’s best fighting systems.
What makes Don Jitsu Ryu unique is its emphasis on more than just physical techniques. Students are taught the principles of success and the discipline required to conquer life’s many challenges. We believe that “Don Jitsu Ryu is not just a style, but a lifestyle.”
Who founded Don Jitsu Ryu?
Don Jitsu Ryu was founded in 1970 by Grandmaster Professor Don Anthony Jacob. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Grandmaster Jacob began his martial arts journey at a young age. Through relentless training, study, and innovation, he developed Don Jitsu Ryu — a unique and powerful martial arts discipline that emphasizes personal growth, confidence, and respect alongside physical skill.
Today, Grandmaster Jacob holds a 9th Degree Black Belt (Hanshi) and is one of the most well-known and respected martial artists in the world. He is also a published author, motivational speaker, and international ambassador for martial arts. His teachings have impacted hundreds of thousands of students across more than 50 countries.
What does “Don Jitsu Ryu” mean?
D – Determined to Win
O – Overcome All Challenges
N – No to Drugs and Crime
J – Justice as the end result
I – Integrity
T – Train Harder than Others
S – Service
U – Unlimited Talent
R – Remember where you came from and consciously know where you are going
Y – Your future depends on your Positive effort
U – Understanding of All things
About Purple Dragon
What is Purple Dragon?
Purple Dragon is an international martial arts organization and the official home of Don Jitsu Ryu. Founded by Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob in 1970, Purple Dragon has grown into a global network of over 50 dojos across the Caribbean, Canada, the United States, and Europe.
Purple Dragon is devoted to remaining among the top leaders in the martial arts industry by offering the best martial arts fitness system and services to our members. We pride ourselves in building a reputation of integrity in every community we serve worldwide.
What is Purple Dragon’s legacy?
Since opening its doors for the first time in 1970, Purple Dragon and Don Jitsu Ryu have spread rapidly across the globe. Our legacy includes:
55+ Years of Excellence — Over five decades of teaching martial arts and transforming lives
50+ Dojos Worldwide — Locations across the Caribbean, Canada, USA, and Europe
70+ Countries Visited — Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob has spread the art globally
6 Continents Reached — A truly international martial arts family
Thousands of Students — Lives transformed through Don Jitsu Ryu
Purple Dragon is undisputedly the single largest private martial arts organization in the Caribbean, having dominated the region in terms of membership and high standards for over 50 years.
What are Purple Dragon’s core values?
At Purple Dragon, we believe martial arts training extends far beyond physical techniques. Our eight core values guide everything we do:
Discipline — The foundation of all achievement
Respect — For ourselves, our instructors, and others
Integrity — Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching
Confidence — Believing in yourself and your abilities
Patience — Understanding that mastery takes time
Humility — Remaining teachable at every level
Self-Control — Managing emotions and actions
Self-Worth — Recognizing your inherent value
What makes Purple Dragon different from other martial arts schools?
Several things set Purple Dragon apart:
Character Development Focus — While many martial arts schools limit education to kicking and punching, we also teach the principles of success and discipline required to conquer life’s challenges.
International Recognition — Our belt ranks are recognized globally by Purple Dragon International, with gradings conducted by Professor Don Jacob himself.
Family Atmosphere — We’re more than a martial arts school — we’re a family. As we say, “The family that kicks together, sticks together.”
Complete System — Don Jitsu Ryu incorporates multiple martial arts styles, giving students a well-rounded education.
Merit-Based Advancement — Belts are earned through skill and dedication, not purchased. Every rank represents genuine achievement.
About Purple Dragon TORONTO
Where is Purple Dragon Toronto located?
We operate from two convenient locations in Toronto:
Purple Dragon Main Dojo (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday)
2758 Victoria Park Avenue, North York, ON
Parkway Forest Community Center (Tuesday, Thursday)
55 Forest Manor Road, North York, ON
What are the class schedules?
Tiny Dragons (Ages 5-8): Mon/Wed/Fri at 5PM & 6PM (Main Dojo) | Tue/Thu at 6PM (Parkway Forest Community Center)
Youth (Ages 9-14): Mon/Wed/Fri at 6PM | Saturday at 10AM (Main Dojo) | Tue/Thu at 6PM (Parkway Forest Community Center)
Adults (Ages 15+): Mon/Wed/Fri at 7PM | Saturday at 10AM (Main Dojo) | Tue/Thu at 7PM (Parkway Forest Community Center)
KeepFit Kickboxing: Monday & Wednesday at 8PM (Main Dojo)
Who are the instructors?
All Purple Dragon instructors are certified Black Belts in Don Jitsu Ryu, trained directly under the guidance of Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob. Our instructors are not only skilled martial artists but also dedicated mentors committed to helping each student grow — not just as a martial artist, but as a person.
Our instructors encourage students to live up to the ideals of Don Jitsu Ryu by embracing a holistic standard of living, promoting health and wellness, and the appropriate application of the system.
Programs & Training
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for all ages starting at 5 years old:
Tiny Dragons (Ages 5-8): Fun, engaging introduction to martial arts focusing on motor skills, balance, social skills, and the basics of Don Jitsu Ryu.
Youth Warriors (Ages 9-14): More advanced training with emphasis on self-defense, leadership development, and traditional Samurai values.
Older Youth & Adults (Ages 15+): Complete Don Jitsu Ryu training including self-defense, mind-body integration, and weapons training.
KeepFit Kickboxing (Adults): Non-contact fitness program combining Western Boxing, ThaiKickboxing, and French Savate.
Do I need any prior martial arts experience?
No! We welcome complete beginners of all ages. Our programs are designed to meet students where they are and guide them through progressive skill development. Whether you’re 5 or 55, have never thrown a punch or have trained in other styles, you’ll find a place at Purple Dragon.
Do you need to be physically fit to start?
Not at all! Our programs are scalable and personalized. We meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace. Many of our adult members join specifically to get in shape, not because they already are. Our instructors will work with you to build strength, flexibility, and endurance gradually.
Can families train together?
Absolutely! We encourage family participation. Martial arts with Purple Dragon is an excellent activity that you and your child can enjoy together, fostering a special bond that will last a lifetime. As we say, “The family that kicks together, sticks together.”
Many families find that training together strengthens their relationships and gives them a shared activity to enjoy. Parents often report that supporting their child’s martial arts journey has positive effects on the whole family.
Will martial arts make my child aggressive?
Absolutely not. Martial arts teaches children the opposite — how to be respectful, polite, and to use their words when frustrated. Students learn self-control, discipline, and when it is (and isn’t) appropriate to use physical techniques.
In fact, many parents report that their children become calmer and more focused after starting martial arts training. The discipline learned in class translates to better behavior at home and improved focus in school.
Is sparring required?
Sparring is part of our curriculum as students advance, but it is introduced gradually and conducted in a safe, controlled environment. Students learn proper technique and how to hit — and more importantly, how not to get hit — in a supervised setting.
Even the most timid students eventually come to understand and appreciate martial arts sparring as part of their development. Safety is always our top priority.
Belt System & Advancement
How does the belt ranking system work?
The Don Jitsu Ryu belt ranking system reflects a student’s progress in skill, discipline, and knowledge. The journey starts from the novice White Belt (Mukyu) and progresses through various colored belts, each representing a significant milestone in the student’s development.
Unlike some martial arts schools where financial incentives can overshadow true skill development, Purple Dragon maintains a strict standard. Belts are earned through merit and ability, not purchased. Grandmaster Jacob emphasizes that ranks in Don Jitsu Ryu are attained only after careful assessment and examination.
How often are gradings held?
Members under Black Belt are graded every 6 months by our Founder, Professor Don Jacob. Students must be recommended by their Sensei after having demonstrated the grading requirements and the required training hours. Discipline and effort are of the utmost importance.
This ensures that every promotion is meaningful and that students truly embody the skills and knowledge required at their level.
How long does it take to earn a Black Belt?
The journey to Black Belt typically takes several years of dedicated training — usually 4-6 years depending on the student’s commitment, training frequency, and natural ability. This is not a program where belts are given away; each rank must be earned through demonstrated skill and character development.
Remember: “The competition is between You and Yourself.” We focus on personal growth, not racing through ranks.
Are Purple Dragon ranks recognized internationally?
Yes! The ranking system is overseen by Purple Dragon International, with grading examinations conducted by Grandmaster Jacob. This means your ranks are recognized at any Purple Dragon dojo worldwide — across the Caribbean, Canada, USA, and Europe.
Getting Started
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes! We offer trial classes so you can experience Purple Dragon before committing. This gives you the opportunity to meet our instructors, see our facilities, and get a feel for the training environment. Contact us to schedule your trial class.
What should I wear to my first class?
For your first class, wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely — such as a t-shirt and sweatpants or athletic shorts. Train barefoot (no shoes on the mats).
Once you enroll, you’ll receive an official Purple Dragon uniform (Gi) with belt and patches. The uniform represents your initiation into our Purple Dragon International family and should be worn with pride.
What is included in the membership?
All memberships include access to regular classes, sparring, weapons training, self-defense instruction, and in-dojo training. We have a set monthly price for your membership and a grading fee twice per year if you choose to grade for your next level.
Unlike some martial arts schools that charge for extra uniforms per belt level, tournament fees, or each stripe, Purple Dragon keeps things simple with no hidden fees and no surprise charges.
How often should I train?
We recommend training 2-3 times per week for optimal progress. Consistent training ensures that students are continuously developing their skills and building the discipline that is central to Don Jitsu Ryu.
That said, we understand life is busy. Our schedule offers multiple class times throughout the week so you can find times that work for you and your family.
Is the facility clean and safe?
Absolutely. We maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. Our facilities undergo routine cleaning and deep cleaning to keep the dojo clean and odor-free. Safety is always our top priority, and all training is conducted in a supervised, controlled environment.
Competition & Events
Are there competition opportunities?
Yes! Students interested in competition have opportunities to participate in internal and international tournaments. Competition is optional but provides an excellent opportunity for students to test their skills, build confidence, and experience the global Purple Dragon community.
What other events does Purple Dragon offer?
Beyond regular classes, Purple Dragon offers a variety of events and activities that strengthen our community:
Grading Ceremonies — Bi-annual belt promotions with Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob
Tournaments — Local and international competition opportunities
Summer Camp — Daily martial arts training combined with fun activities
Talent Nights — Showcase events celebrating student achievements
International Trips — Opportunities to train with the global Purple Dragon family
Boot Camps — Intensive training experiences
Community Events — Building bonds beyond the dojo
Will I have the opportunity to meet Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob?
Yes! One of the unique privileges of training with Purple Dragon is the opportunity to train with and be graded by our Founder, Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob. He conducts grading examinations and visits dojos worldwide, giving students the rare opportunity to receive personal instruction from the founder of the system.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help! Contact us and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about our programs, schedule a tour of our facilities, or set up a trial class for you or your child.
“Hard work works!”