What is aikido?   At its simplest, aikido is a modern Japanese martial art involving throws and locks rather than punches and kicks. For a more complete discussion, go here.

Why do it?  Mostly, it is a fun way to practice a defensive art, while exercising the body, mind, and spirit.

How do we practice? Typically, we do a warm up, including stretches, aikido exercises, and breakfalls. Then we practice defensive moves from a number of attacks. Sometimes we practice free-style movements with a number of attackers. We have a syllabus to ensure that as students progress through the ranks they understand the full range of aikido techniques from a wide range of attacks.

We mostly practice empty handed, but also use weapons, notably the tanto (knife), jo (short staff),  and boken (wooden sword).  Some videos of jo suburi are shown here.

For more information on ukemi, go here.

For more information on making techniques work, go here.

Class times

Current practice times for the dojo are listed below.  If you are new, please call 269-2394 or email to confirm that the times have not changed.

• Tuesday 6:30 – 8:30 pm general aikido
• Thursday 6:30 – 8:30 pm general aikido (call to verify)
• Saturday
  • 10 – 11 am adult beginning aikido
  • 11 – 12 general aikido