Children’s Aikido (8-12 years) 

During this class, the children stretch and do warm-up exercises, learn the art of ukemi

(falling & rolling), practice basic Aikido techniques, and we also play energetic games that reinforce the principles of aikido. The students are encouraged to help out in the younger class and learn to take leadership.  They help each other to learn.

Aikido Fun (5-7 years)

In this class, the children are encouraged to explore natural movements. We play a lot of games. They also learn to be still. The focus is less on techniques, and more on the underlying principals behind the techniques that they will learn when they move into the older class.

Gasshuku, Intensive Trainings:

Twice a year, a special one or two day intensive training, called a gasshuku, is scheduled. During these intensive seminars, the teachers will invite students who are ready to test. The students train hard. This is when we see the fruits of all their hard work and their spirit shines! All students begin with white belt. With training and practice, the students progress through the colors back to white. In our style the colors progress from white-yellow-orange-green-red-blue-purple-white. Then there are 5 ranks of white called kyu and then the black belt ranks, called dan.

Summer Aikido Camps for Children and Youth are offered from time to time. White Pines Dojo (AKI) in the Kootenays, offers children eco-friendly camps. AKI Canada offers International Summer Camps creating opportunities for cultural exchanges with children and youth coming from other AKI dojos around the world. In the future, Aikido Kenkyukai International (AKI) will offer summer camps in other countries as well.

Tuition:

Aikido Fun  $60/session

Children’s Aikido  $120/session

Family discounts are available for two or more siblings training.

Tuition is paid by session, by year, or by month by post-dated cheques. Additional fees are charged for the Intensive Training gasshuku and for the test.

Teens are encouraged to join the Introductory Adult classes. The teens are also invited to help out in the children’s classes to develop “aiki leadership”. The teens can enjoy playing the dynamic games and the children benefit from the youthful spirit and role-models. 

Teachers:

The teacher is Miryam Huchet with Philipp Gawthrop and Alix Flavelle assisting.  They all have trained extensively in Japan, USA, and Canada. They moved to Victoria BC in the fall of 2007 and established Pacific Shizen Aikido Kenkyukai, a non-profit society.

In all the classes, basic Japanese language, culture and etiquette are introduced.  The wooden swords, a favorite among the children, are used to show the lines and space present in the techniques. Kids have fun and are motivated by both the cooperative and competitive games while being encouraged to maintain their centre.

Schedule:

There are no children’s classes on statuary holidays, and during Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays. Classes are scheduled as usual during the school spring breaks.

Students can join the classes at anytime of the year. The first class is free. The children can invite their friends to come and try a class (please call the teacher prior to the class).

The dogi (uniform) can be purchased new or used. The club coordinates group orders.  Or you may search used clothing shops. Choose a white judo or karate dogi without any emblem, badge or writing on them.

My son had an AMAZING day!  He loved the class!  He was thrilled to be with the older children.  He always seems so fulfilled after class...so centered. Thank you again!  It was great.    Jacqueline