The movements of Aikido focus on harmony between two people. The person who applies the control or throw studies balance and focus. The person thrown or pinned studies being off-balance and helping their partner to learn. Each person practices both parts. Together, the two strive harmoniously to create a beautiful technique. Benefits of Aikido include physical fitness, challenge without competition, and elements of self-defense. Beyond the physical components, students are also immersed in a study of mindfulness, philosophy, tradition, and self-discipline in an atmosphere that lifts students beyond exercise and technique, toward a life of greater harmony.
Our instructors are Eric Schlichting and Tina Syx; ranked Senior Jun Nidan (2nd degree black belt) and Jun Shodan (first degree black belt) respectively, under Aikido Yoshokai Association of North America (AYANA). All AYANA instructors have been certified with the Head Instructor of AYANA, Sensei Akira Kushida.
In addition to our weekly classes, we occasionally take trips to train at other dojos within our organization; including the Twin Cities, and our headquarters dojo in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
