Aikido ~ Adults & Kids 10+ Welcome

Rather than fostering competition, Aikido asks us to find a harmonious way through conflict, not only in our practice, but in our daily lives. Thus, it transforms the stresses of our business, academic and family lives into opportunities for self-development.

Aikido is good for for children too. It helps children develop discipline, concentration and self-confidence. The classes emphasize safety and cooperation in basic techniques. It provides alternatives to the "flight" or "fright" response that is natural to all of us, and which can lead to violent outcomes.

FAQ:

What is Aikido?

Aikido is a modern, non-violent, non-aggressive Japanese martial art, which was developed early in this century by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). "Aiki" means "blending body-mind to the movements of energy." "Do" means "a way or path chosen towards self-realization." Aikido is a system of self-defense employing techniques based upon circular motions that blend with the attack and energy of your opponent. Aikido's movements are generally smooth and fluid. Circles and spirals predominate in the techniques. Rather than meeting the force of an attack head on, the defender moves his or her body out of range, taking the attacker's balance and culminating the technique in either a throw or hold-down. In the rhythm of practice, partners change roles allowing each to feel both aspects (attack and defense) of the technique. The general atmosphere of training is one of mutual cooperation and respect.

Is Aikido similar to karate or taekwondo?

Not really. Aikido is based on jujitsu, the martial form learned by Samurai. Rather than kicking and punching, Aikido is based on controlling, throwing and pinning through a series of coordinated body movements. Aikido is also different in that there are no sports-style competitions or tournaments. There are no trophies, no winning/losing, and especially no school bullies. Aikido is a path to self-refinement through martial discipline. Aikido practitioners learn to neutralize conflict without causing injury to the aggressor. For this reason Aikido is becoming very popular among law enforcement officers as well as citizens with an enlightened view on violence in society. For example, as part of their training for the street, members of Tokyo police learn techniques from the Yoshinkan school of aikido.

I don't like to fight, so why learn Aikido?

It is precisely because one doesn't like to fight that Aikido might be good for them. The "Do" in Aikido means "Way". Way means more than just "step-by-step how to." Self-defense technique is only a part of what learning Aikido is about. It's the tool for delivering the knowledge. In the end, martial arts should be practiced with the aim of becoming a better person: one who is more disciplined and confident is ultimately more peaceful.

What is a class like?

Aikido, like most martial arts, has its etiquette and traditions, such as bowing to the shomen (front of dojo, or practice hall) and bowing to teachers and partners. Typically, classes begin with a warm-up period of stretching and flexing exercises to limber up all muscles and joints. Breathing exercises improve the coordination of breath and motion for more efficient action. Quiet sitting to calm the mind is also followed before and after the class in some schools. Basic exercises teach footwork patterns and hand motion fundamentals for all techniques. Regular practice in rolling and falling decreases the possibility of injury during execution of actual techniques. Vigorous exercises increase strength and endurance. Most of the class time is spent practicing techniques with partners, under the supervision of the instructor.

What is practice like for a beginner?

Beginning students are typically paired with senior students. Virtually any technique can be practiced quickly and powerfully or slowly and gently. The instructor gears the class to be stimulating and challenging to each student. The teaching approach is developmental and individualized allowing students to develop to his/her full potential. It is through regular practice of the techniques that students, over time, embody and express their potential.

Do you practice with weapons?

Aikido is primarily an empty-handed art. However, as a student progresses, he/she studies the principles of Aikido through the use of the wooden sword (bokken), wooden staff (jo), and wooden knife (tanto). Weapons work reveals the importance of proper distance, timing, and precision of body movement. It also develops a student's breathing and concentration. Techniques for responding to multiple assailants are also studied.

Am I too short, tall, weak, out-of-shape, old?

Probably not. If you're of modest health you can begin benefiting from Aikido. There's no such thing as too short, tall, thick, thin, etc. Men and women of any body type can effectively learn aikido. Practiced correctly, Aikido does not rely on physical strength and so is accessible to anyone. Aikido's founder was 4'11" and practiced until he was in his 80's. Its not uncommon to see people in their fities, and some even in sixties, take black belt tests.