Welcome

Aikido

Aikido is a martial art dedicated to resolving conflict in a peaceful and safe way. We believe that responding to violence with violence only serves to perpetuate violence. It is our right as individuals to do what we must to be safe, but it is our responsibility to do so without causing harm to others.

More Than Self Defense

Because Aikido emphasizes peaceful resolution of conflict, it has applications outside of self-defense or martial situations. The confidence gained in learning to control ourselves and to respect the safety of others gives us tools we can use in all personal interactions. Learning to assert ourselves without fighting makes it possible to maintain peaceful relationships without simply giving in.

Friendly and helpful training partners

Because of the ideas that are pervasive in Aikido training, it encourages a friendly environment. Students are encouraged to help each other. The encouragement seems to work, because helping each other is very much a part of the culture. Senior students are often excited to help newer students over the rough spots of getting started. It's not uncommon for deep and lasting friendships to form between training partners in Aikido.

Training is for everyone

Of course there are health issues which may preclude training, but the great majority of people can train in Aikido. Because of it's gentle attitude and respect for the way the body works, it's possible to train in a meaningful way without creating painful or dangerous situations for yourself. At the same time, Aikido can be as athletic as you'd like it to be. You will work with a variety of partners and find those whose goals in Aikido are compatible with yours.

You can actually have some fun at this

The relaxed way that training proceeds allows students to enjoy the sheer joy of accomplishment and the fun inherent in Aikido training. At New School Aikido we are fond of pointing out that tiger cubs learn to hunt by playing. We believe that a similar philosophy applies to mastering Aikido.