Tomari Martial Arts is lead by Head Instructor & founder of Tomari, Sensei Don Arnott! He has a background in many Martial Arts including Free Style Wrestling, Shotokan Karate, Kenpo Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Boxing, and Okinawa weapons. In 1979 Don opened his own Dojo in the beautiful city of Nanaimo and called it Tomari, after the Okinawa city that historically allowed various fighting styles to train together. Right now, Don's Tomari Dojo has produced 4 Professional World Champions, 8 World, 10 North American and 12 National Amateur Champions in kickboxing!

Sensei Don is also an expert in High-Intensity Strength & Conditioning Training and teaches specialty classes at Vancouver Island University. His approach to 'street self-defense' is extremely effective and simple; two of the most crucial aspects of protecting oneself against a violent assault.

Most of Sensei Don's students do not compete in tournaments as they enjoy the benefits of simply getting into great shape and losing fat while strengthening muscle and becoming self-confident in self-protection under the guidance of a World Class Instructor. Those that do compete are taught how to reach their maximum potential. Sensei Don specializes in teaching Martial Arts to all ages and has had thousands of students train under him from 6 years old to 60 years old!

"I would recommend Tomari to anyone from beginners to fighters. Don is very passionate about what he does and that translates to his classes. Always a great atmosphere to be in. The man knows what he's talking about and if you listen, you'll leave each class having learned something new."
~ Brie M. (Google review)

"I have been training with Don at tomari for 8 years. He brought me from a person with zero experience to a provincial champion. His classes are great whether you've never stepped foot in a gym or your an experienced fighter. I highly recommend tomari for anyone."
~ Ross W. (Google review)

"Don is incredible! After only a couple sessions my husband and I feel like we have learned so much! We are so excited to continue working with Don and to develop our skills. We highly recommend him!"
~ Katie D. (Google review)

"Tomari IS the place to be if you want to simply learn and have fun, or compete in the ring.  I have had the opportunity to train under Mr. Arnott currently and I truly believe he is one of the BEST coaches internationally!
I hold several Pro card titles in other sports and have had World Class Coaches, and I have to say Don ranks to be the BEST i have ever had.  He is patient and very knowledgeable. It does not matter if you have experience or you have none.  I just wish I would have found him sooner!!!
I recommend this club to EVERYONE.  I even have my son enrolled in Tomari. It can be a fun-filled family fitness experience as well!"
~ Marian R. (Google review)