Russ Smith expressed an interest in martial arts as a young teenager, and began learning Karate basics with a family friend. It wasn't until Russ was on extended vacation in the Philippines over 25 years ago that he began his formal training in Japanese Goju-Ryu. Upon his return to the United States, Russ's interest in the origins of Goju-Ryu were piqued, which led to him seeking out instruction in Okinawan Goju-Ryu. Russ's desire to continue research on the origins and influences on Goju-Ryu has lead him to study Fujian and Hakka arts such as Five Ancestor (Ngo Cho Kun), White Eyebrow (Pak Mei), and White Crane Boxing styles. Russ is the head instructor at the Burinkan Dojo and makes periodic trips overseas to train Goju-Ryu and Kobudo in Okinawa, and Kung-fu in Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and across the USA.