Business Details
20 Years
experience
Aikido Classes in Newnan, GA for All Ages
Founded in 2006, Southside Aikido has been dedicated to teaching the traditional Japanese martial art of Aikido under the guidance of Chief Instructor Tim Antrim, a fourth-degree black belt with over 30 years of experience. Our practice emphasizes defensive techniques derived from samurai tactics, focusing on redirecting an attacker's energy rather than meeting force with force. We serve students of all ages in Newnan, Georgia, offering structured classes for adults, teens, and children while maintaining affiliations with the United States Aikido Federation and the Aikido Center of Atlanta.Our curriculum promotes physical fitness, mental discipline, and conflict resolution skills, with a non-competitive environment that fosters mutual respect and personal growth. We provide flexible training schedules, including access to additional practice hours at the Aikido Center of Atlanta, and maintain rigorous standards for rank advancement through the USAF's certified ranking system.
Services
Adult Aikido Classes
Children's Aikido
Teen Aikido
Private Instruction
Rank Advancement Training
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Chief Instructor with 30+ years of Aikido experience and direct lineage from Yoshimitsu Yamada
- Non-competitive environment emphasizing safety and mutual respect
- Structured USAF-certified ranking system with clear progression milestones
- Flexible training options including access to Atlanta's Aikido Center
- Family-friendly classes for children, teens, and adults
Associations and certifications
- United States Aikido Federation
- Aikido Center of Atlanta
What people say
Experienced instructors
Family-friendly
Non-violent approach
Structured curriculum
Effective self-defense
Services
Adult Aikido Classes
Structured Aikido training for adults focusing on defensive techniques, energy redirection, and traditional Japanese martial arts principles. Classes emphasize physical fitness, mental discipline, and conflict resolution through partner-based practice. Students progress through a certified ranking system with requirements for each belt level.
Children's Aikido
Specialized Aikido instruction for children promoting self-discipline, confidence, and non-violent conflict resolution. Curriculum develops mind-body coordination and energy control while maintaining a fun, structured environment without competitive elements.
Teen Aikido
Technique-focused Aikido classes for teens emphasizing energy blending, proper falling techniques, and weapon-based training with bokken and jo. Develops physical coordination, focus, and understanding of traditional martial arts principles through partner drills.
Private Instruction
Individualized Aikido sessions pairing new students with senior members for personalized guidance. Focuses on foundational techniques, terminology, and cultural practices to accelerate integration into group classes while addressing specific learning needs.
Rank Advancement Training
Structured programs preparing students for official rank examinations through the United States Aikido Federation. Includes specific technical requirements, practice day tracking, and preparation for demonstrations against multiple attackers at advanced levels.
People
Tim Antrim
Chief Instructor
Fourth-degree black belt with 30+ years of Aikido experience, trained under Yoshimitsu Yamada and Rodney Grantham. Founded Southside Aikido in 2006 after teaching in multiple countries, bringing international expertise to local students.
Questions
How is Aikido different from other martial arts?
Aikido focuses purely on defense without tournaments, using evasive techniques to redirect attackers' energy through joint locks and throws.
Is strength required for Aikido?
No - techniques rely on proper form and energy redirection rather than physical strength, making it accessible to all sizes.
What are the health benefits?
Improves flexibility, stamina, and mental focus while teaching stress management through controlled energy (ki) cultivation.
How do students track progress?
Structured USAF ranking system with specific technical requirements and practice day milestones for each belt level.
Are there beginner classes?
New students train individually with senior members before joining regular classes, ensuring personalized integration into practice.
Can families train together?
Yes - family members can attend classes together and participate in group practice sessions during scheduled hours.
