Business Details
50 Years
experience
Aikido Training in Corte Madera, CA
Established in 1976, Aikido of Tamalpais has been a dedicated center for studying the Japanese martial art of aikido. Our dojo, affiliated with the world headquarters in Tokyo, offers training that emphasizes non-violent conflict resolution, physical well-being, and philosophical growth. We provide foundational and advanced classes tailored to all skill levels, fostering balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Our experienced instructors, including direct students of renowned aikido masters, guide practitioners in mastering techniques that blend with attackers' energy rather than opposing it.We cultivate a community that values harmony, stress reduction, and practical applications of aikido principles in daily life. Our curriculum includes weapons practice with bokken and jo, which enhances understanding of empty-handed techniques. We welcome observers and offer free introductory classes to engage new students in our practice. Located in Corte Madera, California, we serve Marin County and surrounding areas with structured training programs. Our commitment to preserving aikido's traditions while adapting to modern needs ensures a meaningful experience for all participants.
Services
Aikido Classes
Leadership Embodiment
Seminars
Movie Nights
Kids' Classes
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We offer aikido training rooted in decades of direct lineage from Japanese masters.
- Our instructors emphasize safe, injury-free techniques for all skill levels.
- We integrate physical fitness, stress reduction, and philosophical growth into every class.
- Our community fosters lifelong learning and practical applications of aikido principles.
- We provide free introductory classes to help new students experience our practice.
Services
Aikido Classes
Our aikido classes teach non-violent conflict resolution through techniques that redirect attackers' energy. Students learn safe falling methods, improve physical fitness, and apply philosophical principles to daily life. Classes accommodate all skill levels with personalized instruction.
Leadership Embodiment
This program uses aikido-based practices to enhance leadership skills through body awareness and mindfulness. Participants explore power dynamics, communication, and stress management in a supportive environment. No prior martial arts experience is required for these transformative sessions.
Seminars
Annual seminars feature guest instructors demonstrating advanced techniques and philosophies. Sessions include bokken cuts, jo practice, and thematic discussions on aikido's applications. Events combine rigorous training with community-building through shared meals and collaborative learning experiences.
Movie Nights
Monthly film screenings foster community connections while showcasing martial arts themes. Events include casual socializing with popcorn and pizza after regular training sessions. These gatherings provide informal opportunities to engage with fellow practitioners and instructors.
Kids' Classes
Specialized instruction introduces children to aikido's core principles of respect and non-violence. Classes focus on age-appropriate techniques, coordination development, and conflict resolution skills. The program emphasizes fun, safety, and building confidence through structured physical activity.
People
Wendy Palmer
Shichidan - Seventh Degree Black Belt
Founder of Aikido of Tamalpais and creator of Leadership Embodiment, Wendy trained since 1971. She authored three books on aikido philosophy and mentored countless students until her passing in 2022.
Greg Owens
Godan - Fifth Degree Black Belt
Training since 1991 under George Leonard and Wendy Palmer, Greg combines patient instruction with EO network leadership experience. He emphasizes applying aikido principles beyond the mat in business and personal relationships.
Kirk Scott
Godan - Fifth Degree Black Belt
Started aikido in 1991 under Jongoon Kim and trained with Wendy Palmer for 27 years. Combines martial arts expertise with prior karate background to develop well-rounded practitioners through personalized instruction.
Michael McCormick
Godan - Fifth Degree Black Belt
Practicing since 1993, Michael integrates influences from multiple international instructors. His creative classes explore technical depth while maintaining accessibility for both beginners and advanced students through continuous global training exchanges.
Yayoi Nagano
Nidan - Second Degree Black Belt
Certified Feldenkrais practitioner combining movement principles with aikido. Focuses on holistic well-being through inclusive teaching that emphasizes mind-body connections and lifelong learning in a supportive environment.
Questions
What should I wear for my first aikido class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes. We provide uniforms for trial classes, and you can purchase official attire after deciding to continue training.
Are there age requirements for aikido training?
We offer kids' classes starting at age 5 and adult programs for all ages. Techniques adapt to individual physical capabilities regardless of age or fitness level.
How do aikido techniques differ from other martial arts?
Aikido focuses on redirecting attackers' energy rather than direct confrontation. Our non-violent approach emphasizes joint locks, throws, and harmonizing movements over striking techniques.
Can I observe a class before participating?
Yes, we welcome observers. Contact us to schedule a visit and watch any class to experience our training environment before joining.
What are Leadership Embodiment classes?
These sessions apply aikido principles to personal and professional development. They focus on body awareness, communication skills, and stress management techniques for leaders in various fields.
Do you offer special events for community building?
Yes, we host monthly movie nights, annual seminars with guest instructors, and community dinners to strengthen connections among practitioners outside regular training sessions.
