If you are solely looking for learning how to protect yourself then
you may first want to focus on taking a self-defense workshop or course. However, to truly learn self-
defense, you will need to commit to a martial art which will teach you techniques to respond to from a
variety of attacks. Aikido is effective because it emphasizes blending with an attack, not blocking. You
become comfortable training with a variety of partners (male, female, large, tall, etc.). It teaches you
how to fall safely and control your breathing and to relax in a stressful situation. Aikido techniques are
frequently included in training military and tactical training due to the efficiency of the movements.

You can try a free class (applies for children or adults) or watch a class. You should
complete the pre-registration form on our website. You can wear comfortable clothing such as
athletic/sweatpants and a long sleeve shirt. Once you decide to become a member, you can wear a gi
(training uniform) which we sell at the dojo. If you already own a gi, you can wear that as well.

We encourage teenagers to attend the adult classes. We will have a
senior student help you throughout the class so that you’ll be supported and your questions will be
answered.

Aikido classes include learning how
to take a fall (ukemi) safely. We will show you how to fall slowly with a simple backward fall and at your
own pace. You will gradually become more comfortable and work towards forward rolls. After several
months, falling will become natural and is an enjoyable part of aikido practice. Falling is also very useful
outside of the dojo, such as in participating in other sports and preventing an injury when slipping on
snow or ice.

We have students as young as 4 years old and others who are
nearly 70. Aikido incorporates stretching and conditioning with an emphasis on safety. At Green River
Aikido, our instructors have been practicing aikido for over 40 years and are dedicated and
knowledgeable teachers that can help you begin at any age. If you have a specific health problem, you
should first speak to your doctor before beginning aikido. On your pre-registration form, please include
any health concerns or physical challenges or speak directly to the Chief Instructor.

Our dojo has many women practitioner and Kathy Stier Sensei
teaches how a woman can apply a powerful technique without relying on strength. Women often are
attracted to aikido because it is easier to learn and emphasizes joint immobilization over brut strength.
Many women find aikido easier to learn because they can learn to fall easier due to their smaller size
and greater flexibility.