FAQ
Some likely questions ...
How can I tell if the Jiseikan dojo would be right for me?
Have a look through this website
Drop in and watch some classes at the dojo
Talk to some of the students
Be sure to speak with our teacher
Participate in a couple of classes before deciding if to register
- You won’t need a uniform right away
- Loose, durable clothing like sweat pants/shirt would be fine
Does the dojo operate under some overall guiding principles?
Growth is needed for health and happiness
By participating in each other's experience we help each other to grow
Harmony and readiness bring peace to mind and body
Safety comes first
What sort of Aikido do you practice?
Our practice closely follows the martial arts system that Minoru Mochizuki O’Sensei developed in Japan and brought to North America and Europe in the 1950s through 1980s.
Our students learn to provide safe but sincere attacks including punches and kicks, so in turn they can properly practice defense techniques. Those techniques include many from traditional judo and ju jutsu, chosen for their safety and effectiveness, and applied with flexibility to overcome stiffness.
Traditional weapons, particularly the sword, are studied for extra insight.
We wear plain white judo uniforms.
Aikido is suited to ordinary people, and it promotes fitness.
As a new student, what could I expect to experience?
Beginner classes concentrate on
Acting with awareness of self and partnersFundamental movements and techniquesMutual respect, care and safety
Classes mix people of all ages
A new student practices one-on-one with a senior student at first
Each student progresses at their own pace
There is no competition or timetable for advancement
Practices reduce stress
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