Classes: Adult, Children, Advanced
Adult Classes (13+)
We practice a holistic approach to traditional Yoshinkan Aikido training, stressing strong posture, mastery of basic movements (kihon dosa), and skillful techniques specifically designed for effective self defense.
The methods are intended to help you develop perfect balance and obtain your body center line. You’ll experience body awareness exercises to help you develop focus and breath power (kokyu ryoku), accuracy, and speed.
Classes usually include warm-up activities and basic movement exercises. These exercises provide the foundation on which Aikido techniques are achieved.
A core part of Aikido is ukemi training (the art of falling safely). Knowing how to fall and roll safely keeps your body strong and protected. These techniques might look intimidating at first, but, don't worry, the movements are taught in steps and feel natural over time.
The training includes practicing Aikido techniques for self defense. The sensei (instructor) usually demonstrates the technique several times before inviting students to practice the technique with each other. As students practice, the sensei provides personalized support and critiques.
Weapons training is also included in the curriculum. Students are introduced to the following weapons to help further body and ki awareness (circulating energy): bokken (sword), jo (staff), tanto (knife).
CLASS TIMES FOR ADULTS: Mon 6 am, 7 pm | Tues 6 am, 7 pm (open mat), 7:30 pm (black belt) | Wed 6 am | Thur 6 am, 7 pm (open mat), 7:30 pm | Fri 6 am | Sat 9 am | Sun 8 am, 4 pm (open mat, by appointment)
Children’s Classes
The Children’s program is currently serving students 6-12 years old. The classes are specifically designed to engage young students in a fun and interactive way, while prioritizing student well-being and safety. The program includes a belt-rank system based on Yoshinkan Aikido International Standards which is recognized by partner dojos around the world.
Our head instructor of the children’s program is Josh Sensei. He is a credentialed classroom teacher with a Masters degree in education from UC Davis. In addition, he received his International Aikido Instructor Certification while studying and teaching in Kyoto, Japan. His extensive experience and passion for cooperative learning and team building are immediately apparent when you meet him.
In addition to Josh Sensei, teaching assistants are also present to answer questions and help guide students through the lessons and activities. Newer students are given ample individual support from the instructors to help them get acquainted with class activities and to make new friends with the existing students.
Why is Aikido and cooperative learning good for children?
Aikido is a non-competitive martial art. There are no competitive matches, or bouts in which one student prevails over another student’s loss. Therefore, children of all ages and athletic abilities can benefit from Aikido. Success in the program is individually defined by personal growth and development of skill mastery. This allows students to progress at their own pace, while simultaneously providing endless challenges.
The emphasis of cooperative learning in a team environment encourages students to do their best while helping others to do the same. One immediate benefit of a cooperative environment is the framing of both technical and interpersonal mistakes or offenses as learning opportunities for improvement rather than discouraging or embarrassing episodes which often result in a sense of personal failure, fear, and shut-down.
CLASS TIMES FOR CHILDREN: Tues 6 pm | Thur 6 pm | Sat 11 am -12 pm
Advanced Yudansha (black belt) - By invitation only
This advanced training class is intended for brown belt and black belt students. In this class, we continue to cultivate a strong spirit to allow the vital energy of ki to flow in our body freely.
This class allows students higher-level training and a chance to explore the depth of the Art of Peace. Students deepen their understanding of the mind/body/spirit integration as the founder of Aikido intended.
Students gain a deeper understanding of techniques and how they work. This process requires students to give up old habits, including the habit of using muscle strength to force a technique. Speed and agility are practiced and emphasized. We explore the joy and freedom experienced when techniques are done in the true spirit of aiki, free from egoic energy and forceful actions.
This level of training is a doorway for individuals seeking enlightenment.
Expert-level classes meet weekly on Tuesdays, 7:30-9pm.
Fee Schedule
Adult Class: $145/month unlimited
Children’s Class: $145/month unlimited
Women’s Class: $80/month, once a week on Tuesdays
Drop-in: $15, for visiting Aikido students
Private lessons: $35, for test-prep and continued education. We offer private or semi-private sessions in 30 minute increments.
Test fee: $30, up to 4th Kyu. Fees may vary for higher belts.
New students: There is a one-time registration fee of $50, which includes the uniform and the Aikido Del Mar booklet for beginners.
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