Kokikai Aikido
Kokikai Aikido is a self-defense art that uses throws and pins to defend against striking and grabbing attacks. One moves out of the way of an attack and simultaneously uses the attack momentum to unbalance and redirect the attacker into a throw or pin. In other words, Kokikai Aikido uses timing, evasion, and redirection, not great physical strength.
Kokikai Aikido has a minimalist aesthetic expressed as "minimum effort for maximum effect": in Kokikai, the ideal technique is the most natural and comfortable one, requiring the least movement and the least energy. Kokikai is also a modern school of Aikido: our techniques continually evolve and become more effective against realistic attacks.
In Kokikai Aikido, we want to be so in control of ourselves and the attacker that we can throw or pin without causing injury. But when the mind is agitated or upset, it's difficult to concentrate or think clearly; when the body is tense or awkwardly positioned, it's difficult to move easily and gracefully. Therefore, Kokikai Aikido emphasizes mind-body coordination (also known as ki) and aims to develop each person's best state of mind and body: calm with a positive mind and relaxed with good posture. Since Kokikai Aikido improves one's ability to remain calm and relaxed under stress, it is as beneficial for everyday life as for self-defense.
The Kokikai Basic Principles are the cornerstone of our training in mind-body coordination:
- Keep One Point (to develop calmness)
- Relax (progressively)
- Correct Posture (in everything)
- Positive Mind (develop your positive mind)
The Kokikai School of Aikido was founded by Master Shuji Maruyama, who began teaching Aikido in the United States over 35 years ago. His students have spread Kokikai Aikido across North America and around the world.
Practice
Kokikai Aikido has no competitions, matches, or weight classes. Men and women of different ages, sizes, and levels of experience can practice together comfortably. Practice is at the student's pace, so that everyone can enjoy Kokikai Aikido, not only the young and physically fit.
In addition to self-defense techniques, students learn to roll safely and comfortably. Students also learn movement exercises that improve balance, coordination, gracefulness, and posture, as well as deep breathing and meditation exercises that improve calmness, relaxation, and concentration. Practice also includes training with bokken (wooden sword) and jo (wooden staff).
Classes are an enjoyable form of exercise in a relaxed atmosphere. A typical class begins with warm-ups, followed by Ki Development Exercises; the remainder of the class concentrates on self-defense techniques. Each technique is demonstrated by the instructor and practiced by the class in partners or groups.
New members may join at any time; no previous experience is necessary. Members may attend as many classes as they wish, although we recommend attending at least twice a week for good progress. See class information for details about joining.
Visitors are welcome to watch class, whether or not considering joining.
