Aikido provides realistic and practical self-defense against most types of attacks. Students encounter and defend against grabbing attacks, barehanded striking attacks, and a variety of kicking attacks. Weapons training includes paired and solo jo kata, paired bokken kata, and barehanded defenses against sword, stick, and knife attacks. Students also train to competently handle grappling situations such as headlocks and the guard and mount positions. 

                Beginning students receive individual instruction in falling safely, in basic footwork and movement, and in static techniques. Intermediate level students add more movement to the techniques and learn fundamental joint locks and submission techniques. More advanced students add to their repertoire of techniques and learn defenses against weapon attacks. These students also practice defending against multiple attackers. 

                   Group instruction for men, women, and children takes place in a non-competitive environment. The method of teaching is safe and non-injurious to the student.  Classes are entertaining and conducted in a friendly atmosphere of trust, relaxation, and non-violence. People of all ages are welcome to attend, including senior citizens. We take a realistic view of age, and the physical limitations and psychological factors, which play an important role in students’ abilities to practice and learn the art successfully. Each student determines how often and how vigorously he or she can practice. Any healthy person can practice Aikido. It requires no special academic background. All barriers to accomplishments are in the mind.      

                 The benefits of Aikido training reach far beyond proficiency in self defense. Regular training offers the health benefits of stress reduction, improved fitness, and more energy. Psychologically, the student benefits from greater self confidence and self esteem, self discipline, and positive thinking. The development of ki is essential for physical and mental health. Aiki implies healing. Proper and regular training improves the body’s restorative functions. The student should feel revitalized, having more energy than when he or she began. 

                  More than the acquisition of superficial physical skills and talents, Aikido leads a student on a pathway toward transforming consciousness. Coordinating body, mind, and spirit prepares the student for inner exploration. Unifying body, mind, and spirit enables the student to act in an efficient and effective manner; allowing him or her to overcome size, age, and strength limitations. During such times, the student passes beyond the feeling of “doing a technique” and flows in the ever present “now.”

                 Society also benefits from students practicing Aikido. There is a sustaining sense of community and cooperation that pervades Aikido philosophy and practice. This philosophy teaches effective non-aggressive ways to interact with others while fostering the student’s own emotional and psychological development.