Who can practice Aikido?
Aikido is available to almost anyone who wants to learn it. Aikido practitioners range from 5 years old to eighty. Like most Aikido dojos, we have childrens classes for younger students to get them started. The adults program includes everyone else. No previous martial arts experience is necessary, nor does one have to be in top physical condition. Aikido practice will gradually increase ones strength and flexibility. If you have particular physical problems, you should first talk to your doctor, and then with the Chief Instructor. In general, since a beginner practices at a slow and easy pace, it is usually possible for you to determine for yourself, in the process of Aikido practice, if the problem is manageable or not, without risking any serious injury.
Aikido can be performed by people of many different levels of physical ability. When first beginning their training, students are taught to throw and fall safely. As they progress, students are encouraged to increase their level of training at the pace that is appropriate to them. This method strikes a balance between individual progress and group safety. Aikido can be practiced by men and women of all body types and ages.
