HOW TO GET STARTED

We invite you to observe an Aikido practice session during any of the scheduled class times – See classes schedule »

Interested to learn more about Japanese swordsmanship?

TRY A FREE CLASS

You are welcome to try a free Aikido or Battojutsu (Japanese swordsmanship) class. Simply make an appointment »

WHAT TO EXPECT IN YOUR FIRST AIKIDO CLASS

BEGINNING OF AN AIKIDO CLASS
You will sit with other members in seiza (legs folded underneath thighs, buttocks on heels) or cross-legged in a lined formation. The class will officially begin when everyone bows towards the kamiza (place of honor, front of the dojo) and then to the instructor (Sensei). Bowing is a gesture rooted in Japanese culture and performed as an expression of respect for the art, the dojo, and to one another. It is proper etiquette that signifies an awareness of surroundings and readiness to begin practice. Learn more about the dojo etiquette »

AIKIDO WARM-UPS
After bowing in, there will be a gentle 10-minute warm-up consisting of breathing exercises and stretching. Afterward, you will learn how to do basic footwork and how to execute a forward and backward roll, an essential skill that we refer to as ukemi, the art of falling safely.

LEARNING UKEMI 
Falling gently and safely is one of the first skills you will learn. Half of the Aikido practice focuses on applying a technique, while the other involves receiving it, often by falling or rolling. Developing good ukemi skills allows one to receive an Aikido technique safely. It conditions and develops strong muscles and substantially contributes to the progression of understanding the art.

BASIC TECHNIQUES
You will then learn a couple of basic Aikido movements by practicing with a senior partner, taking turns safely applying and receiving the techniques. The class will last about 1 hour and end with everyone bowing out.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER
You can sign-up at any time during the year. Simply show up at the dojo when you are ready to start. Find out what membership package works best for you »

DOJO FACILITIES
• Bright, spacious studio.
• Separate changing rooms with private showers
• 2-minute walk from the Hartsdale Metro-North station
• Municipal parking lot behind the dojo. Free parking weekends »