Aikido training is joyful, and multifaceted.

What is Aikido?

Aikido (合気道) is a modern Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei/Great Teacher). The throwing techniques and joint locks of aikido are a synthesis drawn from jiu-jitsu, sword, and staff. Utilizing the principle of harmonizing energy the aikidoist absorbs, and redirects the energy of an attacker, safely resolving the conflict by throwing the attacker away, or restraining with a pin.

But learning technique is not the ultimate goal of aikido.  Practicing diligently, mastering form, movement, and timing sets the aikidoist on a path of mind and body unification, allowing them to move naturally, without fear, in harmony with self and with the universe.

Why do we train?

People begin aikido training for many reasons.

Regular aikido training benefits physical health: aerobic fitness, core strength, flexibility, posture, balance, and stability.

Regular aikido training develops martial skills and martial awareness: falling safely, connection, peaceful conflict resolution; patience, calm, mindfulness.

Regular aikido training is fun! Once the aikidoist learns to safely take falls and roll there is nothing more fun and community building than throwing and being thrown, always with mindfulness of a partner's rolling ability.

how do we train?

Aikido training is centered on partner practice. The teacher demonstrates a technique, students choose a partner, then they practice—taking turns in the roles of attacker and defender. Aikido training also includes group practice, one person defending against multiple attackers. Practice with bokken and jo—wooden sword and short staff—reinforces and gives insight into open hand training.

Class structure includes dynamic warm-up, partner practice with pace moving from slow to vigorous to allow the body time to warm and avoid injury, group practice with multiple attackers, then cool down activities including stretching, breathing exercises, and brief meditation. 

Every aikidoist is different, and their practice is a reflection of the diversity of aikido. The community of aikidoists spans race, gender, age, ability, body type, identity, religion, and nationality. This diversity is always respected on and off the mat. There is no competition in aikido.