The Dojo

The dojo is a warm and friendly place to train. Safety is always our priority and no students will be forced into techniques or falls that they simply can not handle. The foundation of our training philosophy can be divided into two portions. The first is based on the founder's belief that Aikido should be practiced with joy and enthusiasm. If you do not enjoy what you are doing, then you will not be doing it for very long. The second part of our philosophy is Shugyo. Shugyo very simply means growth through sweat and hard work. When you visit the dojo you will find the students to be friendly and open. Everybody is quick to remember their first days in class. All people are welcome and you will soon find that the dojo can be a place where life long friends can be made.

Classes are taught in a traditional fashion and proper etiquette will be taught to each new student. The most common aspect of etiquette is bowing. Bowing is done as a sign of respect. All the bowing done in class is done for this reason. As you come to class, simply remove your shoes and bow onto the mat to prepare for class. If class is already in session, simply stand at the side of the mat and wait for the instructor to bow you into class. The traditional uniform is called a GI GIs are not required until a student has been with us for a month. This amount of time will help the student decide if Aikido is for them. The only other equipment needed is a JO, bokken and tanto. Each of these pieces can be picked up at a later date, and you will always find other students willing to share. The dojo is a very special place and it is up to the students to maintain it. You would be responsible for setting up and taking down the mats, making certain the dojo is clean, as well as seeing to visitors in the dojo. It is a very true statement that the dojo is a reflection of the students that train there.

We train in a fashion that allows you to truly push yourself. Aikido is more than a powerful martial art - it is a great form of exercise. In that we have no snapping of joints or harsh motions, it provides a great low-impact aerobic and anaerobic workout. We ask that you visit with your doctor prior to beginning classes to make certain that you do not have any conditions that may be aggravated by Aikido. A very important part of what we do is the adaptation of technique and practice to fit people with special needs. If you have a bad back or knees for example, we can modify your studies without sacrificing anything. Always discuss any limitations you may have prior to taking part in classes.

See Also:
General Aikido Information
Instructors
Class Schedules