Class Schedule

Adults - Beginners: The basics classes focus on the essential skills required for the safe and correct practice of Aikido. Techniques and principals are presented at a slow pace thus allowing new and beginning students the opportunity to learn Aikido basics including etiquette, footwork, body movement, positioning, falling (ukemi), the use of momentum and the development of a strong and stable center. Although these classes focuses on the needs of students with less than six months experience, they are open to members of all ranks, and beginners benefit from the opportunity to practice with more experienced students.

Adults: These classes focus on the fundamental and applied techniques at the intermediate to advanced level, reinforcing knnowledge of basic techniques and further developing the student's knowledge of practical application of aikido techniques, including ukemi, and develop flexibility and stamina. Attendance is open to all adult members, regardless of rank.

Adults - Advanced: These classes focus on intermediate and advanced techniques and maximum benefit from the class requires some comfort level with ukemi technhiques . The class is structured to provide the more advanced students the opportunity to polish techniques and practice a wider variety of applications. Attendence is open to all dojo members but these classes are targeted at students with more than two years experience.

Adults Weapons classes: Weapons training is an integral part of the Aikido curriculum. Aikido is designed to respond to attacks with weapons as well as empty handed attacks. Also, some of the baisc movements of Aikido are derived from traditional Japanese weaons arts. Weapons practice helps in development of balance, posture, movement, hand to eye coordination and concentration. Aikido weapons include Jo (wooden staff), Bokken (wooden sword) and Tanto (wooden knife). Attendance is open to all adult dojo members.

Free Practice: All members are encouraged to practice on their own before, between and after the scheduled classes. In particular, the Sunday noon time free practice can be used to prepare for tests, to train on specific areas of interest, to consult with senior members, or for personal development. These classes are open to all dojo members who have been practicing for at least a month; however, the student must obtain permission from the Chief Instructor in order to begin attending free practice.

Iaido: Iaido is the traditional art of drawing, cutting and re-sheathing the Japanese sword. It is a practice separate from, but complementary to Aikido. The classes consist of warm-ups, the practice of basic movements and practice of several forms of kata. Iaido is a separate study from Aikido. Permission of the Chief Instructor is required.

Youth classes: These classes are open to children starting at age 6 and their parents. Youth Classes focus on safety, cooperation and basic Aikido. Classes are taught in a disciplined but fun environment that includes stretching, rolling and basic techniques. Children can progress through several levels of grading tests and eventually may join the adult classes.

The Youth Classes develop benefits in the following areas: Personal Skills (discipline, focus, concentration, self confidence and self awareness); Social Skills (cooperation, tolerance, relating to others, good manners); Physical Skills (flexibility, agility, balance, stamina and strength); Cultural Skills (etiquette, Japanese customs, tradition and language).

Development of these skills will help children improve in school and in sports. They will learn at an early age that a regular regimen of exercise will reduce stress and anxiety in their lives as well as encourage them to learn how to work and play with others in a fun yet disciplined environment.

Questions about starting Aikido? Click to view our Aikido FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)