Question 1

Is aikido practical for self defense?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if one trains with realistic application in mind.

Understanding the different purposes for different types of training is necessary. Often, practitioners - or those watching - mistake a drill for an application, but this should be differentiated.

Drills create neural pathways, muscle memory... essentially they build artificial reflexes so that if done with the correct form, consistency, and focus, eventually they can be the basis for legitimate self defense movements.

All kata (form) has this potential, but often the middle of the effort (still in the learning phase) can be mistaken for the last step, which means that when pressure tested the movements aren't always effective. Although beginners have plenty of success stories to share!

Question 2

Do I need to be in shape before I start?

Accepted Answer

No, you don't need to be in shape to start training with us. Our classes are designed to accommodate all fitness levels, and we can adjust the intensity and movements to match your current physical abilities.

Training with us is a fantastic way to improve your health and fitness as you go along. If you have any existing health concerns, we do recommend checking in with your doctor before starting, to ensure you're training safely.

Question 3

What should I wear to class?

Accepted Answer

Until you have a gi (a training uniform), simply wear loose comfortable clothes that allow for movement - no tank tops or muscle shirts please. If possible cover the knees and elbows.

You can purchase your gi through us - cost is $55 and up depending on the size and quality of gi you choose - or you can purchase through your own source.

Please have washed feet, trimmed finger nails and toe nails. 
Deodorants are fine, but no strong perfumes. 
Foundation makeup/lipstick that will soil another's gi is also discouraged.

Question 4

Do I have to be big and strong to be effective in aikido?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. There are some very powerful practitioners that have a small, slight frame.

Aikido uses body positioning and timing to control or defeat bigger opponents very effectively, so male or female, big or small, learning position and leverage means technique will work and the aggressor will run into their own energy coming back at them when they try to offer violence or dominate.

Size and strength do matter, but neither matter more than training and understanding.
- Position beats strength
- Timing beats speed
- Knowing how to use your position and your mass is key, not the size.

Most of us are over a 100lbs, and yet would struggle to easily move a 100lb anvil.
If that anvil was pressing on us somewhere we would definitely notice and be impacted - so learning to use the different parts of the body together as a unit is the key element.

When Mo Davis was a 13 year old girl, she threw a 70 mph fastball! 
Despite her small and slight body (still manifestly very strong), she could throw faster than 99.9 percent of the world could do by far, because of excellent technique. The only people who could/can throw faster are people approaching her level of whole body technique, who are bigger and stronger.

Question 5

Is aikido just pretending to make technique work?

Accepted Answer

Not at all, although it might seem like it to people who don't train.

During training, especially when first learning, there is a vital element of cooperation as the goal of training is not to actually break arms or necks or punch eyeballs, but to learn about mechanics and positioning - so a strike will be pulled, or minorly shifted to a different target, partners will tap out rather than get a broken wrist. This is similar to training in boxing, which does not involve raw full power punches to the face with no protection.

Aikido comes from the violent history of feudal japan and was developed with the sole purpose of effective military combat and self defense movement. It was not called aikido at that time, and the movements have been softened for modern times and purposes, but the core movements of aikido are inherently designed for effective response to violence. A key feature of aikido is the ability to turn up or down the effective control or level of damage of a certain technique to meet the necessity of circumstance.

Question 6

Is there a best time to start class?

Accepted Answer

Any time you can make it is the best time!

We practice year around and classes include all levels of training together. We tend to get more new students at the start of the new year, and at the end of summer, but new students are welcome any time.

Many of us procrastinate the start of things - aikido takes years to refine and develop; this is cumulative. It is better to come once a month for a year than to wait that year to start coming more often.

"The best time to plant a seed is twenty years ago.
The next best time is today"

It matters when you get on the path, and many of us have intentions to go in many directions and yet somehow end up on the couch, so the best time to start is right now. We're here to welcome you and walk you through each step of the way.

Call or text to check times and come to the very next class!

Question 7

How long does it take to earn a black belt?

Accepted Answer

The time it takes to earn a black belt varies. 
Some students may achieve their first-level black belt in as little as five years, while for others it may take longer, depending on the focus, dedication, and consistency they bring to their training.

There’s a story in martial arts tradition that says a new student starts with a white belt and never washes it. Over the years, as the belt accumulates dirt and wear, it gradually darkens, symbolizing the student’s growing knowledge and experience. When the belt finally turns black, it represents the mastery of the art through time and effort.

This story holds some truth. Earning a black belt is not about the color itself, but the understanding and discipline gained along the way. While some students choose to train with the goal of testing for rank, others may train for personal growth or fitness without the desire for formal testing. We encourage students to aim for benchmarks like belt testing, as it pushes them to strive harder and experience valuable pressure testing. However, it's important to remember that each person’s journey in martial arts is unique, and success isn’t measured solely by the color of their belt.

For our juniors, we follow a colored belt system. Adults retain their white belt until they reach their first dan (first-degree black belt).

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