Aikido uses throws, joint locks, and pins to counter the force of aggressors. The techniques of Aikido seek to blend and harmonize with the force of an attack and use dynamic movements and positioning to establish control. These classes constitute the heart of Aikido training through the study of paired forms.

Through partner practice, students learn to both apply and receive techniques correctly. Over time, each student will develop the ability to respond more dynamically, deal with more forceful attacks, and develop better overall body and situational awareness.

These classes have the fundamentals of the art as their focus, including stance, footwork, striking, and how to safely receive the techniques (ukemi.) These classes allow beginning students to get a more specialized focus on basic concepts, as well as allowing more experienced students refine and develop their skills.

Basics classes provide an introduction to the art and are recommended as a part of new students’ training schedule.

Training in Aikido also involves the use of wooden training weapons (sword, staff, and knife.) Students are able to see the origin of Aikido body movements through the practice of weapons, as well as sharpen their awareness with partnered forms. While practiced separately, ultimately weapons practice seeks to integrate all the aspects from body art practice and drive the student toward a deeper understanding of both themselves and the art. Weapons classes are part of the overall aikido curriculum and not offered as a separate course of training.

The conditioning classes feature a more dynamic workout to help get and keep the body in shape to practice Aikido. While a portion of every Aikido class will be devoted to practice-specific exercises, the conditioning classes focus on strength and movement to help build a strong and flexible body. These classes are meant to challenge the student at their current level of ability and are important for beginners and experienced students alike.

Ne-waza (ground techniques) condition the body to maneuver on the ground and help develop spatial & technical awareness on the horizontal plane. These classes are not meant as sport-style groundfighting but rather to familiarize the student with basic technical concepts that allow the student to manage the serious disadvantage of being on the ground.

Zazen (seated meditation) is seated, silent meditation. Students are taught the correct posture and method of breath counting. Zazen is practiced as a way to cut through distractions and delusions and see our original nature. With continued effort, meditation can help to bring focus, concentration, and relaxation into our daily lives.