Frequently Asked Questions

How is aikido different from other martial arts?

All martial arts have something to offer, and aikido is unique in that the intended outcome of any conflict is for both people, the attacker and person being attacked, to walk away unharmed. In this way, we maintain respect for the dignity of ourselves and others, and neutralize aggression rather than perpetuating conflict by choosing to do harm.

We typically practice techniques in pairs, with one person taking the role of uke, the attacker, and nage, the person being attacked. Some of the attacks we practice responding to include strikes, grabs and attacks with the wooden practice weapons of sword, staff and knife. Whereas many arts would respond to an attack by blocking and striking, in a typical aikido technique nage blends with the partner's attack redirecting his energy, safely finishing by controlling the attacker with a throw or pin.

What are the benefits of aikido training?

Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of the art, said that "Aikido is medicine for a sick world." For practitioners, it is a path for refining the body (balance, flexibility and coordination), mind (self-confidence, concentration and responding to conflict proactively) and spirit (centering, positivity and peace). On top of that, it's fun and a great way to release the stress and tension of our hectic lives.

Is aikido an effective form of self-defense?

Yes. That said, to become effective in a real-life physical conflict requires years of focused training. If you're looking for immediate, practical skills, a self-defense course may better serve your purposes.

Aikido has many practice benefits. Learning how to roll and fall safely dramatically reduces the chances of being injured as we age. Aikido training also helps to increase situational awareness and build self-confidence, reducing the likelihood of being targeted by those intending to do harm.

I'm older and a little out of shape—is aikido right for me?

Aikido requires a minimal degree of physical fitness. Because we don't rely on brute force or extreme speed or flexibility, most people are able to train. In simplest terms, if you are able to get yourself down to the ground and back up again (which we do A LOT in aikido), you'll be fine. If you can do this much, aikido is a great way to get back in shape or improve overall fitness.

I'm new to aikido and have no experience in martial arts—how do I get started?

Aikido is a cooperative martial art, and as such part of our practice is to help less-experienced students learn while improving our own skills. Because we practice in this way, beginners are welcome in all classes. If you're totally new to the martial arts and want to see if aikido is a good fit, you can start by trying a class for free.

As a new student in a class, you’ll join the group for warm-ups and basic techniques. When things get more advanced, you'll be paired with an experienced student to help guide you. To support new students, the dojo also offers a mentor system, pairing you with a senior student who can answer questions and help you feel comfortable as you learn.

What should I wear?

If you're trying your first free class to see if aikido is right for you, loose-fitting athletic wear like sweatpants and a t-shirt is appropriate. Whether you get started with our one-month introductory offer or join as a member, you automatically receive a free training uniform (don't worry—we'll help you tie your belt!). Contact us now to get started!