- If you are centered, you can move freely. -
- To control aggression without inflicting injury is the art of peace. -
Morihei Ueshiba, Founder of Aikido
AI - Harmony
Ki - Energy
DO - The Way
WHAT IS AIKIDO? HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER MARTIAL ARTS?
Aikido is a Japanese martial art that was invented by Morihei Ueshiba in the 1920s, after he had served in the military and trained in other martial arts including judo and jujutsu. Disillusioned with destructive nature of violence and war, he invented a practice emphasizing harmony over aggression as a solution to conflict. In his book about aikido, The Art of Peace, he wrote: In our techniques we enter completely into, blend totally with, and control firmly an attack. The way of the warrior is based on humanity, love and sincerity.
WHAT DO YOUNG STUDENTS LEARN FROM AIKIDO?
Aikido teaches inner calm, focus and awareness through physical and mental training. Students learn how to play, rough-house, throw, fall, stand their ground, move, and meet high-energy situations in a way that fosters empowerment and respect for themselves and others.
Aikido is a practical martial art applicable to real-life situations. Students develop healthy body mechanics, become more physically fit, and practice techniques that are effective in a fight. They learn how to precisely deliver the powerful strikes of an attacker and how to effectively respond with aikido throws, joint locks and pins. They also learn how to roll, flip and fall out of techniques in ways that protect the body from harm.
Aikido is empowering. Students advance internally and externally, over time learning what it means to be a responsible member of a community in which formality, discipline, challenge, aggression, sharing and experimentation are all being mindfully explored.
WHAT HAPPENS IN A TYPICAL CHILDRENS AIKIDO CLASS?
Arrival: Fifteen minutes before class, students arrive, change into their uniforms, bow and walk onto the mat. This is an important time for informal play, socializing and individual preparation for tests.
Warm-Up: Students bow in with the instructors, transitioning to more formal training. The instructor guides students in group stretches, breathing exercises, rolling and falling practice, striking drills, and basic stance maneuvers.
Training (Keiko): Students observe aikido techniques demonstrated by the instructor, pair off and practice with one another. One plays the role of attacker (uke) and the other (nage) responds with an aikido technique. Then, they switch.
Tests and Games: These do not occur in every class, but are part of overall training. For tests, students demonstrate techniques and are awarded colored belts. Attendance, mat etiquette, behavior and technical skill all factors in putting up students for promotion. Students may also play one of several games designed to develop aikido-related skills while having fun.
Closure: Students meditate, bow with the instructor, bow to one another and thank one another for practice. Review, discussion and announcements may also be shared. Afterwards, students change and are picked up by their parents.
HOW DO I SIGN UP?
Email kids@sfaikido.com or leave a message at 415.777.2833. Please include your name, the name and age of your child/children, which days you wish to attend, and your phone number. Or, drop by fifteen minutes before class begins (calling ahead is helpful to insure class is in session). Parents and children are also welcome to observe classes. For more information, contact Sensei Jim Friedman or Program Manager Daisy Colchie at the above email and phone with your questions.
CLASS SCHEDULE:
(Please arrive 15 minutes early so that your child has time to get ready.)
Thursdays 4:00pm-5:00pm, ages 8 and up
Mondays 4:00pm-5:00pm, ages 6 and up
Monthly fee is $80 (training once a week) or $110 (training twice a week).
INSTRUCTORS:
Daisy Colchie: 4th Degree Black Belt
Kimo White: 4th Degree Black Belt
Cielo Oreste: 2nd Degree Black Belt
Kelsey Walsh: Children's Class Assistant, 4th Kyu
(see instructor page for bios)
We look forward to seeing you on the mat!
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