About Forge Dojo in Gaithersburg, MD

Bob  Buchanan, Sensei

Sensei Bob Buchanan holds the rank of godan (5th degree black belt) and is the Maryland Branch Chief for Kyokushin-kan.


Sensei has also been a school teacher for the last 23 years and has worked with a wide range of ages and giftings. His early (fresh out of University)work in the Autism Program at the acclaimed Ivymount School help Sensei to see the practicality in breaking down even the smallest tasks into manageable parts; thereby making learning accessible to everyone.


Throughout his training, Bob has had the privilege to compete in various tournament (see below) and has met other karateka from all over the world!

I want to train with Sensei Bob!

Bob  Buchanan, Sensei

Sensei Bob Buchanan holds the rank of godan (5th degree black belt) and is the Maryland Branch Chief for Kyokushin-kan.


Sensei has also been a school teacher for the last 23 years and has worked with a wide range of ages and giftings. His early (fresh out of University)work in the Autism Program at the acclaimed Ivymount School help Sensei to see the practicality in breaking down even the smallest tasks into manageable parts; thereby making learning accessible to everyone.


Throughout his training, Bob has had the privilege to compete in various tournament (see below) and has met other karateka from all over the world!

I want to Train with Sensei Bob!

- 2006, 2007, 2008 US Capital Sabaki Challenge Champion (Semi Contact)

- 2009 US Capital Sabaki Challenge- 3rd Place (Full Contact)

- 2009, 2011 Muteki Kyokushin Ring Wars Heavyweight Champion (Full Contact)

- 2010 US Capital Sabaki Challenge- 2nd Place (Full Contact)

- 2010 American International Karate Championship- 2nd Place (Full Contact)

- 2011 US Capital Sabaki Challenge- Heavyweight Champion (Full Contact)

- 2011 World Sabaki Challenge- Quarter finalist

- 2011 American International Karate Championship- 1st Place (Full Contact)

- 2013 (April) USKA Kickboxing winner (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)

- 2013 (October) USKA Kickboxing winner (30-27, 30-26, 30-27)

- 2014 (January) USKA Kickboxing winner (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

- 2014 (July) USKA Muay Thai Championship (39-36, 38-37, 39-36)

- 2015 (January) USKA Muay Thai winner (TKO 1:44 1st Round)

- 2015 (July) USKA Pro Muay Thai debut

- 2016 (July) Successfully completed the 50 Man Kumite

- 2019 (July) Named Branch Chief for Kyokushin-kan

- 2020 Muteki Kyokushin Ring Wars Heavyweight Champion (Full Contact)

- 2024 IFK United States Heavyweight Champion (Full Contact)

Ready to learn more? Call (240) 899-3517 to connect with our team today!