Business Details
Traditional Aikido Training for Adults and Children in Pagosa Springs
Aikido of the San Juans has dedicated itself to traditional martial arts training since its founding, offering programs for adults and children in Pagosa Springs. Our practice integrates mind, body, and spirit through techniques rooted in the teachings of Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, and Morihiro Saito, who studied directly with O Sensei for over 30 years. With over 30 combined years of experience, our certified instructorsLisa Jensen (4th dan) and Bill Trimarco (4th dan)guide students in developing physical fitness, mental clarity, and cooperative confidence. We emphasize safe, non-competitive training that teaches balance, awareness, and effective responses to physical challenges. Our lineage traces directly to Aikido headquarters at Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, ensuring internationally recognized rank progression for dedicated students.Classes incorporate warm-up exercises, aiki-ken (sword), and aiki-jo (staff) practice, fostering discipline and focus. We welcome beginners of all ages and offer tailored programs for workplaces and organizations. Our instructors trained as uchi deshi (live-in students) at the founder's dojo in Iwama, Japan, deepening their expertise. We prioritize creating a supportive environment where students learn to move with intention and harmony. Our approach combines rigorous physical training with philosophical principles that promote personal growth and community connection.
Services
Adult Classes
Children's Classes
Beginner Programs
Special Classes
Workplace/Organization Classes
Highlights and features
- Certified instructors with direct lineage to Aikido's founder
- Non-competitive training environment for all ages and abilities
- Focus on safe falling techniques and balance improvement
- Internationally recognized rank progression opportunities
- Specialized programs for workplaces and community organizations
Associations and certifications
- Takemusu Aikido Association
- Hombu Dojo
Services
Adult Classes
Traditional Aikido training for adults combines physical conditioning with philosophical principles. Classes include warm-up exercises, technique practice, and weapon work with aiki-ken and aiki-jo. This practice develops body awareness, stress management, and self-defense skills while fostering mental discipline and personal growth through structured partner work.
Children's Classes
Aikido instruction for ages 6-12 focuses on foundational movement patterns and cooperative learning. Through games and structured exercises, children develop spatial awareness, respect for others, and confidence in physical interactions. The curriculum emphasizes safe falling techniques and body control while promoting social skills and non-competitive problem-solving approaches.
Beginner Programs
Structured onboarding for new students includes fundamental movement principles and basic techniques. Participants learn ukemi (falling safely) and partner interaction protocols while building comfort with physical contact. The program emphasizes proper form and gradual progression, preparing beginners for integration into regular classes through a supportive, step-by-step approach.
Special Classes
Tailored Aikido instruction for organizations and special groups adapts core principles to specific needs. These sessions focus on practical applications like balance improvement and fall prevention for seniors, or stress management techniques for professionals. The adaptable framework maintains traditional integrity while addressing unique group requirements through modified movement patterns and scenario-based training.
Weapon Training
Traditional weapon practice with wooden sword (aiki-ken) and staff (aiki-jo) develops spatial awareness and movement precision. Students learn to apply Aikido principles through weapon-based forms that enhance understanding of distance, timing, and energy projection. This training improves coordination and provides physical metaphors for conflict resolution applicable to everyday situations.
People
Lisa Jensen
4th dan Instructor
Lisa Jensen began Aikido training in 1988 under Yas Inaba Sensei. Certified by Takemusu Aikido Association, she trained as uchi deshi in Iwama, Japan. She teaches foundational techniques and weapon forms with emphasis on proper movement principles.
Bill Trimarco
4th dan Instructor
Bill Trimarco started Aikido practice in 1987 with Gaku Homma Sensei. Holding Shidoin certification, he trained at Iwama dojo and specializes in connecting basic principles to advanced techniques for student development.
Questions
What age groups can participate in Aikido classes?
We offer classes for children aged 6-12 and adults of all ages. Our programs adapt techniques to suit different physical abilities.
Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Beginners train alongside experienced students, and we offer specific beginner classes when four new students register.
What should I wear for my first Aikido class?
Wear comfortable workout clothing. We recommend clothing that allows free movement and has some durability for floor exercises.
How does Aikido differ from other martial arts?
Aikido focuses on harmonizing with an attacker's energy rather than meeting force with force. It emphasizes circular movements and joint techniques.
Are there opportunities for rank advancement?
Yes, through our affiliation with Takemusu Aikido Association, students can achieve internationally recognized ranks from qualified instructors.
What physical benefits does Aikido training provide?
Regular practice improves balance, coordination, flexibility, and core strength while teaching safe falling techniques applicable to daily life.
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