Youth Class

Classes are on Saturdays, 1:30-2:30 pm.  

·         Anyone under 18 is welcome to attend.  

·         As is our tradition, we will adjust each class to the students present, taking into account age, skill, and experience.  All are welcome.  

·         New students will start with the basic techniques of the entry level (6^th kyu), and will advance as far as their efforts take them.

Youth Class Dues

$35.00 per month. Additional members of the family may attend the Youth class at no additional charge.

Background

The Nashville Aikikai youth program started in 2012, as a way for kids to have fun and get a healthy workout, in the context of learning a martial art and training in a dojo.

Aikido goals and principles

1.       Non-violence.  We teach students how to promote peace, both within themselves and in their interactions with others.  We are explicit in teaching the power of nonviolent thinking, communicating, and acting.

2.       Self-defense.  Aikido is a system of self-defense developed by one of Japan’s leading martial artists, Morihei Uyeshiba (‘O Sensei’, the founder and principal architect of aikido).  Our school is aligned with Honbu Dojo, in Tokyo, and we strive to teach aikido as it is practiced there.

3.       Personal responsibility.  Each student is responsible for training safely and following dojo etiquette in an environment of mutual respect.

4.       From a training point of view, we emphasize posture, balance, breathing, footwork, conditioning, “mai” (safe distance) and entering/blending techniques.  Students will learn to roll and fall gently and without fear.   They will also learn fundamental strikes and use wooden weapons in a controlled environment.

Dojo Goals and Principles

There are several principles that Tom Sensei and Mary Sensei emphasize for our dojo:

·         We place safety above all else, at all times.  Aikido can be strenuous, challenging, even confusing.  But there is always a safe way to train.

·         We meet people where they are, and support each member’s personal training goals.

·         Tests are rigorous and aligned with Honbu Dojo standards.

·         We enjoy each other’s company and keep a supportive, friendly atmosphere.

·         We are a club.  Dojo instructors are volunteers.  All dojo income goes to the cost of running the dojo.

Safety

In response to the continued threat of the COVID virus:

1.       Mask will be optional. 

2.       Weather permitting, we will train with the retractable front doors open.

3.       Please contact instructor Jay Barnet with any questions about the youth class (nashvillejay@gmail.com).

Interested?

If you are interested in the youth class, please stop by and observe a class.  You will have a chance to participate if you would like… we will keep it simple and safe for newcomers.

Please contact instructor Jay Barnet with any questions about the youth class (nashvillejay@gmail.com)