There are many different reasons to try something new. In the case of Aikido or Kenjutsu, it may be the interest in martial arts, self-defense, philosophy or just the recommendation of friends. Or it’s just the desire to move again or learn something new and unusual. Most of the time it’s not a lac of motivation, but the hesitation to put ideas into action wich stops us from doing something.

However, no matter what conception was in the first place, after the first step is done, everything else falls into place. The reason why you started will usually soon be forgotten. After 3, 10 or 20 years you will have discovered so many things for yourself, that there are a thousand reasons to continue or you no longer need a reason.

You can join Aikido or Kenjutsu  any time. Previous knowledge or a special physical fitness is not required. The necessary skills will be acquired in regular training and are achievable for everyone. The only requirement is the will to deal with oneself and to accept that it takes time to internalize the movements and technics. Once you have gotten involved with it, you will notice that this is exactly the attraction.

The fundamentals in the basic classes

The focus in basic classes is on the fundamental techniques of Aikido, breathing exercises, gymnastics and body awareness. Additional you have the way of falling in Aikido and in Kenjutsu the basic handling of the sword.

The principles and modes of action of the exercises are explained in detail. Newcomers can participate in the basic lessons at any time without prior knowledge of a trial.

The first class

All classes marked as “basic” in the schedule are particularly well-suited for absolute beginners. You are most welcome to drop in for a trial session without previous registration. Two trial sessions are free.

For you first class please bring along clean and comfortable sportswear with long pants. Please don`t wear the same clothes you wear outside. The class will begin on time as scheduled, please make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of class. That will give us enough time to introduce ourself’s and give you a short introduction to the Dojo.

English trial class

All teachers and most of the students speak English. Therefore there is no problem if you are not fluent in German or don’t speak German at all. However, we also offer a beginner class taught in English every Friday.

Body consciousness and psychological development

Anyone who has children or is dealing with children, knows that the physical, mental and spiritual development goes hand in hand. Each learning process on a physical level also entails a mental and psychological growth process in itself. In Aikido, the children can experiment with their movement spectrum, try new movements and incorporate into their repertoire. In this way, body consciousness is positively influenced and strengthened. However, the practice has not only an impact on fitness and health, but also promotes mental and psychological development.

The movements of Aikido transcend social and linguistic barriers

The Aikido Training offers children the opportunity to make a variety of movement experiences. Thus, the perception of children is improved in general. In addition, the basic movements of Aikido transcend all social and linguistic barriers and thereby have an integrative effect. The social competence is enhanced by the cooperative partnership during practice. The movements of Aikido are smooth and dynamic, encourage attention and concentration and create a new body awareness. By emphasizing the partnership practicing, in which there is no competition, aggressions are reduced.

Classes for children from age 4 to 12 years

In children classes from age 4 to 6, we focus on general moving experience and body consciousness. The kids get to experience moving and rolling on the big open space of the Aikido mat and to interact with other children. From age 7, we begin with first simple but more formalized Aikido techniques and the basic methods of falling down. The emphasis is on the development of flexibility and coordination ability. In according to age we move on to more complex Aikido techniques and physical exercises.

schedule for children

Monday: 4.30 – 5.30 pm, age 6-9
Tuesday: 4.15 – 5.15 pm, age 4-6
Wednesday: 5.00 – 6.00 pm, age 9-12
Thursday: 4.30 – 5.30 pm, age 8-12

New children are always welcome. Please call in advance or email us.

Created from the martial arts of the samurai

Aikido is originated from the traditional fighting techniques of the samurai and has developed into a modern form of self-defense. The principle of Aikido is to use the energy of the attack and redirect in a different direction, without injuring the opponent. The attitude that comes in Aikido expression is thus not aggressive combative but actively peaceful. You learn to deal with aggression and to respond appropriately to an attack. The Aikido techniques are dynamic and if properly handled very effectively. It is therefore important to thoroughly deal with the techniques (katas), to make progress. Also, the attacker must be able to fall safely from any situation without getting hurt. Therefore, the case school and strengthening exercises are an important prerequisite to practice Aikido in its dynamic form. In addition to the techniques without weapons, dealing with stick and sword is also a regular part of Aikido. Training with the traditional weapons of the samurai makes for good posture, trains the attention and the timing.

Classe for adolescent

On Friday from 4.45 – 5.45 pm, we have a class for teenager from age 12-16.

If you are interested, please call or e-mail.

Teacher

Helmut Seiler Beginners are always welcome. Please call in advance! mobil: 0177 5544216 or 030 2614546

The grading system in Aikido is divided into kyu and dan grades. It starts by the 5th Kyu and ends withe 8th Dan. From 2nd Kyu you wear the hakama (trad . Jap. Culottes) and, from 1st Dan black belt in addition. As often assumed, the 1st Dan is not a sign mastery in Aikido. It simply means that the student has completed the stage of pure learning the techniques and can more concentrate on the excess principles of Aikido. In Aikido, there is no obligation to take examinations. Who, however, decides to document its development through testing will experience that this intensive discussion of the basic techniques and their similarity will help to understand the learning system of Aikido much better. The seemingly endless and confusing variarity of techniques will get structured and the relation between movement and principles become more clear. The Aikido Dojo am Gleisdreieck is a member of the Aikido Federation Germany. The Federation is officially recognized by the Aikikai Hombu Dojo and is allowed to test up to 4th Dan Aikikai. Download test requirements