Southside Aikido

Our History

The Southside Aikido Club was founded in August 2006 by Tim Antrim, driven by a passion for sharing this unique martial art with the Newnan community. Prior to establishing the Newnan club, Antrim Sensei had already been immersed in the world of Aikido for years. He began his journey in July 1988, training at the Aikido Center of Atlanta under the watchful eye of Rodney Grantham. Upon Grantham Sensei's retirement, Kennedy Sensei took the reins as Chief Instructor, continuing Antrim Sensei's aikido education.

In 1992, Antrim Sensei founded the Southside Aikido Club in Fayetteville, Georgia, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for Aikido while continuing his training at the Aikido Center of Atlanta. A career shift sent Antrim Sensei abroad in 1996, but his dedication to Aikido remained steadfast. He had the remarkable opportunity to train with Kurita Sensei's organization in Mexico, one of the direct students of Aikido's founder, Morihei Ueshiba. His Aikido journey took him to diverse corners of the globe, including Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Miami, where he practiced and taught Aikido throughout.

Returning to the Atlanta area in 2006, Antrim Sensei rekindled the Southside Aikido Club, bringing his wealth of experience and refined techniques to the Newnan community.

About Aikido

Aikido, a modern form of this traditional Japanese martial art, was developed in the early 20th century by Ueshiba Morihei O'Sensei. Its techniques, rooted in centuries-old Samurai warrior tactics, form the foundation of this unique and powerful art. Unlike most martial arts, Aikido is purely defensive. Instead of meeting force with force, Aikido practitioners learn to evade and redirect their attacker's energy.

This principle of "active non-resistance" allows Aikidoists to neutralize opponents effectively, even those who are larger or stronger. By harmonizing with the attacker's momentum, Aikido practitioners can either project (throw) or immobilize them, turning aggression into balance. This unique approach makes Aikido a safe and effective self-defense system for people of all ages and sizes.

Aikido Beyond Self-Defense

The practice of Aikido transcends the realm of self-defense. It is a journey of personal growth and development, promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Aikido cultivates balance, discipline, and a deep sense of respect for oneself and others.

The high moral code inherent in Aikido emphasizes protecting the attacker while simultaneously neutralizing their threat. This philosophy fosters a sense of harmony and understanding, making Aikido a truly holistic practice.

Our Philosophy

At Southside Aikido Club, we strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals of all backgrounds and levels of experience can learn and grow. We believe in the transformative power of Aikido and are committed to sharing its benefits with our community.