Aikido, the Way of Harmony, is a unique martial art. Aikido can be practiced by people of all ages and levels of physical fitness, as a recreational activity or as serious study. Benefits include discipline, concentration and increased physical fitness.Aikido is excellent aerobic exercise as well as self-defense skills. The atmosphere of an Aikido class is formal but friendly and non-competitive.
All classes are open to everyone of all levels. Our instructors have many years of experience tailoring classes to people of varying ability and experience.
Chukyusha (Beginners’ Class)
Fundamentals of basic movements and techniques will be covered. Basic aikido principles and etiquette will also be introduced. The basics class is geared towards newer students, but is open to students of all levels.
Ippansha (Regular Class)
This class is open to students of all levels. Empty-handed techniques, as well as techniques involving the bokken (wooden sword), tanto (wooden knife) and jo (staff) will be covered. Students will be taught how to perform all basic breakfalls (back breakfalls, backward and forward rolls, jumping breakfalls, etc.).
Buki Sojitsu (Weapons Class)
The weapons class (Buki Sojitsu) focuses on training with wooden weapons: tanto (knife), bokken (sword), jo (staff). Practice advances through various stages: learning the stances (kamae); learning solo basic forms (tandoku); paired training (kumi). Aikido derives its martial ancestry from Japanese samurai society where these weapons were a critical part of life. Learning weapons movements also enhances our empty handed training.
Temple University (Accredited Introductory and Intermediate Courses)
Open to all Temple University students, faculty, and staff regardless of previous martial arts experience or fitness level. The introductory course follows the 9th and 8th kyu Doshinkan Aikido curriculum, focusing on fundamental footwork, basic movements, breakfalls, open-hand techniques, and weapons forms. When offered, the intermediate course introduces more advanced open-hand techniques and weapons forms following the 7 th and 6 th kyu Doshinkan Aikido curriculum. As part of the Temple University Kinesiology Physical Activity Program (KPAP), students enrolled in the course are introduced to the history, cultural concerns, and philosophical underpinnings of Aikido. Information on current and upcoming course offerings can be found on the Temple University Class Schedule.
Gakushu (Immersive Course)
Gakushu is a series of immersive weekly sessions that cover fundamental principles of Aikido, philosophy, and advanced weapons technique, with the intent to develop a deeper connection between student and teacher as well as a more intense commitment to the art of Aikido. Gakushu is taught in a very traditional format and is a unique offering of Doshinkan Aikido. Eligibility is restricted to students who have trained at least one year.
Shonen Shojyo (Childrens’ Class)
Instructors’ Seminars
Instructors’ Seminars are intended for those who are or will be certified instructors. They will cover teaching philosophy, methods, and techniques. The workshops will vary in length according to topic.
Workshops
Currently scheduled bimonthly, our workshops will provide an opportunity to go deeper into specified topics, including empty-handed technique and/or weapons. The emphasis will vary, and could include topics such as basic technique, empty hand versus weapon, weapons solo and paired with partner, correct form, self defense/practical application, origin of one or more techniques (e.g. Daito Ryu Aikijujutsu) and/or underlying concepts. Topics will be announced in advance of the workshops.