Business Details
Aikido Classes in San Rafael, CA
Bay Marin Aikido has been dedicated to the practice and teaching of Aikido since its founding. Our dojo emphasizes the philosophical principles of harmony and non-resistance, offering instruction rooted in traditional Japanese martial arts. With over 50 years of combined experience, our instructors guide students through empty-handed techniques and weapons training, fostering physical development, mental discipline, and spiritual growth.We prioritize safe, collaborative learning environments for all ages and skill levels, focusing on practical self-defense applications while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity and community building. Our lineage traces back to the Iwama style under Morihiro Saito Shihan, ensuring authentic technical instruction grounded in decades of rigorous practice.
Services
Adult Aikido Classes
Kids Aikido Classes
Taijutsu Training
Aiki-ken Instruction
Aiki-jo Training
Weapons Practice
Self-defense Techniques
Rolling & Falling Skills
Martial Arts Philosophy
Beginner Orientation
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of combined experience in Aikido instruction
- World-class instruction from certified instructors
- Non-competitive learning environment for all skill levels
- Focus on safe falling techniques and injury prevention
- Integration of traditional Iwama style principles
What people say
World class instruction
Amazing human beings
Top notch students
Ideal learning environment
Lucky to have this
Services
Adult Aikido Classes
Our adult Aikido classes develop physical coordination, self-defense skills, and mental discipline through traditional techniques. Students practice empty-handed movements and weapon-based forms while learning conflict resolution principles. The curriculum emphasizes safe partner work, progressive skill development, and philosophical understanding of Aikido's harmonious approach to self-defense.
Kids Aikido Classes
Designed for ages 6-12, our children's Aikido program builds coordination, confidence, and social-emotional skills through non-competitive training. Students learn safe falling techniques, body awareness, and conflict de-escalation principles while developing physical fitness and mental focus in a supportive environment.
Taijutsu Training
This core Aikido practice focuses on empty-handed techniques involving throws, pins, and joint locks. Training develops spatial awareness, balance, and fluid movement patterns while emphasizing harmonious resolution of physical conflict through controlled partner exercises and progressive technical drills.
Aiki-ken Instruction
Aiki-ken training uses wooden swords to develop proper body mechanics, spatial awareness, and timing. Practitioners learn traditional sword movements that mirror empty-hand techniques, enhancing understanding of Aikido principles while improving coordination and mental focus through structured forms practice.
Aiki-jo Training
Aiki-jo instruction employs wooden staffs to teach circular movements, distance management, and energy projection. This practice develops spatial awareness and timing while reinforcing fundamental Aikido principles through weapon-based forms that parallel empty-handed techniques.
People
Hans Goto
Head Instructor & Founder
7th Dan Aikido master with over 50 years experience, trained under Morihiro Saito Shihan in Iwama, Japan. First non-Japanese citizen to complete traditional Iwama style training. Leads Bay Marin Aikido and directs 75+ affiliated dojos worldwide.
Ron Wada
6th Degree Black Belt
30+ years Aikido experience, trained under Steve Sasaki and Hiroshi Ikeda Sensei. Specializes in safe falling techniques and core structural development. Teaches at Bay Marin Aikido since 1998, emphasizing joyful training experiences.
Lichen Brown
4th Degree Black Belt
25+ years Aikido practice, focuses on Diamond-Willow-Water-Air framework from Saito Sensei's teachings. Emphasizes experiential learning of core principles and integration of Kototama purification practices into daily training routines.
Bob Bates
4th Degree Black Belt
20+ years teaching experience, combines Aikido principles with embodied leadership training. Specializes in practical self-defense applications while maintaining focus on O'Sensei's vision of peaceful conflict resolution.
Micheline A. Ct
2nd Degree Black Belt
20+ years Aikido practice with emphasis on Kototama and purification principles. Integrates TaiChi practice into Aikido training, focusing on awareness cultivation and spiritual connection during techniques.
Questions
What can I expect in my first Aikido class?
You'll receive guided instruction in basic techniques, practice safe falling methods, and learn fundamental movement patterns in a non-competitive environment.
Do I need prior martial arts experience?
No prior experience is required. Our instructors welcome complete beginners and provide progressive training suitable for all skill levels.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothing. No special uniform is required for initial classes - just clothing that allows free movement.
How often should I attend classes?
Most students attend 2-3 times weekly for optimal progress. Consistent practice helps develop muscle memory and technical proficiency.
Is Aikido effective for self-defense?
Yes, Aikido teaches practical self-defense techniques focusing on redirecting energy rather than direct confrontation, emphasizing conflict resolution.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
With regular practice (3x weekly), students typically achieve Shodan (1st degree black belt) in 5-7 years through progressive testing.
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