Business Details
8 Years
experience
Master Traditional Iwama-Ryu Aikido in Colorado Springs
Traditional Aikido of Colorado Springs is a dedicated martial arts dojo specializing in Iwama-Ryu Aikido, a traditional Japanese discipline emphasizing martial effectiveness, self-defense, and personal development. Established in 2018, our dojo focuses on preserving the teachings of Morihei Ueshiba O-Sensei as passed down by Morihiro Saito Shihan, with a curriculum rooted in foundational techniques, weapons training (Aiki-Ken and Aiki-Jo), and cooperative practice. Our instructors, certified by the Aikikai Foundation, bring decades of combined experience and direct lineage to Iwama-Ryu traditions.We prioritize accessibility, offering flexible membership options, free trial periods, and over 40 hours of monthly mat time. Our mission is to cultivate a sustainable Aikido community in Colorado through technical excellence, ethical practice, and lifelong learning. With affiliations to the California Aikido Association and global Aikikai network, we ensure our students receive internationally recognized training and rank. Our facility includes a 30-tatami mat space and outdoor practice areas, supporting both beginners and advanced practitioners in a non-competitive environment.
Services
Aikido Classes
Weapons Training
Workshops
Outdoor Practice
Family Membership
Details
- Year established: 2018
Highlights and features
- Instructors with 40+ years combined experience and direct lineage to Iwama-Ryu founders
- Structured curriculum emphasizing technical precision and weapons training
- Only Colorado Springs dojo offering certified Iwama-Ryu weapons curriculum
- Flexible membership with 40+ hours monthly mat time and free trial week
- Affiliated with global Aikido community through Aikikai and CAA networks
Associations and certifications
- Aikikai Foundation
- California Aikido Association
What people say
Expert instructors
Authentic tradition
Community focus
Technical depth
Flexible membership
Services
Aikido Classes
Traditional Iwama-Ryu Aikido classes focus on joint locks, throws, and self-defense techniques. Our curriculum builds foundational skills, balance, and coordination through cooperative practice. Students train in taijutsu (empty-hand techniques) and develop martial awareness applicable to real-world scenarios.
Weapons Training
Certified Iwama-Ryu weapons curriculum includes Aiki-Ken (sword) and Aiki-Jo (staff) training. Techniques emphasize precision, timing, and integration with empty-hand movements. This practice preserves Morihei Ueshiba's original teachings while developing focus and technical mastery.
Workshops
Monthly Aikido Lab classes provide intensive 3-4 hour sessions on specific techniques or principles. These workshops allow deeper exploration of complex movements, partner drills, and philosophical aspects in a supportive learning environment.
Outdoor Practice
Regular outdoor weapons sessions at Roy Wasson Park maintain Iwama-style traditions. Participants practice in natural settings, enhancing adaptability and connection to historical training methods while welcoming community members and visiting practitioners.
Family Membership
Discounted rates for multiple family members practicing together. This option promotes shared growth in Aikido principles while maintaining accessibility for households seeking affordable martial arts education and community engagement.
People
John Wiley
Chief Instructor
3rd Degree Black Belt with 30 years Aikido experience, specializing in Iwama-Ryu since 1999. Direct student of Patricia Hendricks Shihan, teaching since 2018 in Colorado Springs after decades of practice in Washington DC area.
Elizabeth Hartman
Assistant Instructor
2nd Degree Black Belt with 18 years Aikido experience, studying Iwama-Ryu since 2007. Certified in weapons techniques by Patricia Hendricks Shihan, assisting instruction since joining Colorado Springs dojo in 2015.
Questions
What style of Aikido do you teach?
We teach Traditional Iwama-Ryu Aikido, preserving techniques directly from Morihei Ueshiba through Morihiro Saito's lineage.
Are classes suitable for beginners?
Yes, all classes welcome beginners with free trial week and gradual progression through foundational techniques.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, additional family members receive discounted monthly dues for shared training.
How often are classes held?
Five days weekly with two-hour sessions, plus monthly outdoor practice and workshops.
What qualifications do instructors have?
Instructors hold Aikikai-certified ranks and weapons certifications from Patricia Hendricks Shihan.
Is there a contract requirement?
No contracts required - flexible month-to-month membership with optional introductory packages.
