In our adult classes, we practice the art of Aikido in a traditional and earnest manner. Our Chief Instructor and Senior Instructors have trained with many of O Sensei's direct students and are committed to teaching their students an effective and authentic martial art.

Aikido is more than a collection of techniques. It is a strategic way of approaching combat and conflict that utilizes movement, centering, and energy for self-defense and self growth. Whether we are practicing on the ground or standing, with weapons or with open hands, with more or less advanced partners, we are learning to be centered and calm in mind, body, and spirit even in the midst of adversity and conflict.

Basics Classes

Basics Classes are designed to develop the fundamental skills needed to progress in the art: stance, foot and hand work, leading and following, and throwing and falling to the ground safely.

Every class includes stretching and deep breathing, ukemi (falling) and tai-sabaki (body management) exercises, and partner practice focusing on the basic details of one or two techniques.

Basic weapons practice is introduced through the practice of simple kata.

Repetition of basic exercises and techniques help students learn to react naturally and instinctively as they progress towards more dynamic practice.

Practice is done slowly while the instructor offers corrections on posture and technique to individual students.

Throughout the class the instructor will also explain the underlying technical and philosophical concepts that guide a student's practice.

Basics classes are offered 5 days a week and are open to all students.

Mixed Classes

Mixed Classes offer students a chance to get a more general Aikido workout and focus on the application of skills learned in basics classes.

Students practice with more energy and speed as they develop a strong sense of distance, timing, and balance.

Instruction moves more quickly than in basics classes and the class may cover ten to fifteen techniques, incorporating technical variations, multiple attackers, partnered weapons kata, and freestyle practice.

Spontaneity of movement arises out of this practice and students become more centered, fluid, and connected to their partners.

Mixed Classes are offered every day of the week. All students are welcome to attend mixed classes, but beginners should speak to the instructor before joining their first mixed class.

Ranking

Florida Aikikai testing and rankings follow the guidelines of the United States Aikido Federation. There are 5 kyu (grade) ranks before shodan (first degree black belt) and testing continues through sandan (third degree black belt).