Welcome to Grand River Aikido
We offer a unique Japanese martial art, derived from the combat techniques of the Samurai, that is compatible with the whole family. Our dojo is located at the School of Martial Arts, Guelph, Ontario, and we service Guelph, Centre Wellington and the surrounding area. Anyone is welcome to come and train with us.
Our adult classes offer a traditional martial arts class with a friendly, supportive and non-militaristic atmosphere. Classes are focused, however, and each student is expected to give their best effort. Through the continued practice of basic movements and Aikido techniques, adults can expect to learn strong self defense skills that will benefit them on a physical and psychological level.
Children can expect to have fun while they learn the basic priciples of Yoshinkan Aikido. This will result in the development of self-respect, self-confidence, and personal discipline that will carry through to all aspects of their daily lives. Through Aikido, they will acquire a group of responsible peers that will have a positive impact on not only their own lives, but also the community at large.
Our Kids classes are a comprehensive mix of Yoshinkan Aikido skills and games for kids. The games are focused to use the skills of movement and evasion, the kids learn subtley while engaged in these activities.
At Grand River Aikido, we don't teach fighting or aggression as this prevents students from obtaining an understanding of the subtlety of balance taking, and the strength gained from a relaxed body and correct posture. Emphasis is placed on paired or group training, where partners work together to learn the skills of Yoshinkan Aikido.
Our martial art is unique in that if offers the practitioner the ability to control and circumvent aggressive behaviour regardless of the size or strength of the aggressor. Due to this fact, Yoshinkan Aikido is a great martial art for women, children and older adults. As we get older we loose our strength, but not our Aikido skill: a skilled Aikido practitioner can control a larger and stronger person, with a minimum of effort.
Due to the efficacy of Yoshinkan Aikido, it is used by police forces all over the globe. It is recognized by the Tokyo Riot Police and is mandatory training. The RCMP incorporate Yoshinkan Aikido into their training programs, and many correctional facilities have Aikido based training.
Finding the right style of martial art to practice can be a daunting task. Like any product, one must shop around and find the right fit. Some of our students have previous martial arts experience and some have no previous experience what-so-ever. We hope that you will find Yoshinkan Aikido beneficial, and a viable alternative to your current martial art or as a concurrent practice.
Please browse the site and feel free to call 519 843 5568 or email any questions you might have to Dojocho. We will be happy to answer them.