Children's Classes

Aikido:

Aikido is a non-competitive traditional Japanese martial art. Aikido uses relaxed, natural, flowing movements that redirect and neutralize an attacker's force without harm. Aikido students apply basic principles to resolve conflicts in non-destructive ways.

Most aikido techniques involve partners, an attacker (uke) who is pinned or thrown and a defender (nage) who performs the technique. Attacks are generally holds or strikes and may involve wooden weapons. When techniques are applied to them, aikidoka learn to fall and roll without hitting their heads or hurting themselves, skills which prevent injuries throughout their lives.

Aikido practice trains student to be aware of themselves and their surroundings, to react to conflict with balance, focus, agility, stamina and compassion. Aikido training involves cooperation and mutual respect.

Aikido uses basic principles that have a variety of practical applications. Students may be instructed to: Be aware. Avoid the attack. Get out of the way. Go with the flow. Don't force it, go around it. Let your partner in. Blend.Stay centered. Relax. Breathe. Move from center. Be neither too soft nor too hard. Choose the right time. Keep the right distance. Don't fight. Feel and respond to changes in the situation. Don't think, just do. Extend ki. Focus.

The aikido dojo is a place to train one's self.

Aikido Classes:

Children's aikido classes provide an opportunity for students to become more agile, self-aware, focused and relaxed while learning to fall, roll and perform a variety of techniques in a friendly, non-competitive environment. Aikido classes involve warm-ups, basic bodywork and conditioning, partner techniques and a variety of fun games! In addition, basic weapons work involving wooden sword, staff and knife training are integrated into the curriculum.

Joining the dojo:

Student memberships are $75/month. AikiPlay classes only are $60/month. Siblings half off. Parents may participate in the classes if they wear a gi ($50, white judo type).

Students are required to wear a gi(uniform) which may be purchased at the dojo ($40, judo type for 8+ yrs, $30 karate type for younger kids) or from a martial arts store (unadorned white judo type). (T-shirts are also available, $15 for kids, $20 for adults).

Useful handouts are listed below:

• Registration Form
• Contract & Waiver
• Etiquette
• Vocabulary

Please email us for a visit or for more information.