Adult Classes

Sections: About Training |  Dues Policy |  How To Get Started

Aikido

Aikido is a modern Japanese Budo (warriors way). Judo, kendo (swordsmanship), Karate - do, Kyudo (archery) are examples of Budo. Properly understood, all are disciplines that use martial training as a means of character development. Ai Ki Do translates as Ai- universal love, joining, unifying, Ki- life-force energy, Do - path or way. Literally, Budo is “ The martial way of life”.

Training

Aikido is a non-competitive martial art. It utilizes partner practice to nurture a spirit of harmony and mutual assistance. Its techniques are based on the principle of blending ones movement with breath and one’s energy with that of his or her partner. Aikido movements are martially effective and at the same time lead to a peaceful resolution of conflict. Aikido offers a rigorous physical practice, and is well suited for men and women of different ages as well as children.

At Aikido of Maine we offer a traditional approach to the martial art, open-handed partner practice (taijutsu), sword practice (aikiken), and short staff (jo) work are part of the training at Aikido of Maine. Classes are offered daily and students are welcomed to all of them. As a member you may attend all classes once you are able to move safely. Our dojo is affiliated with Aikido Schools of Ueshiba under the direction of Mitsugi Saotome Shihan. We also maintain a connection with Shobu Aikido of Boston and William Gleason Sensei 6th Dan. WWW.Shobu.org

We are open to all and visitors are always welcome. We host seminars during the year, which will be announced on this web site and our mailing list. Testing for rank will take place during basic seminars and a list of requirements will be given out in a handbook upon registration. We use a third party billing service to keep bookkeeping easy for everyone. We also have a waiver form that must be signed so please come 15 to 30 minutes early to cover the paper work.

Womens Aikido program.
Aikido for women (pdf)

Membership Dues Policy

Our dojo uses a third party billing service AAC. We do this to simplify the flow of funds and to separate the student teacher relationship from the financial arrangement. This allows us to deal with dues in a more effective way. It is our experience that this company’s system is easy and convenient for our members. Joining our dojo works as follows, the first month should be paid with a check along with our annual fee and any uniform costs. A completed continuing membership form should be filled out at this time. There are no long term contracts required.

Month to month agreement:

• 25% discount for full time college students and couples

There is annual membership of $60 for non black belt adult students.

We have the option of yearly pre paid dues, if you prefer.

How to Get Started

• Watch a Class

  You can always watch any of our regular classes. Some of our classes might be more appropriate than others to observe, please call and we can guide you to one that will suit you, or if you prefer just come in.

• Take a Free Introductory Class

  You may also take a free class to get a feel for what it is like. Call (207) 879-9207 or email to schedule a free introductory class.

• Take a Six-Week Introductory Course

  We also have 6-week introductory courses every few months. This allows you to get a better feel for training than one class can provide. You can find when the next intro course starts by checking the Home Page or via email.

• Just Sign up

  Come in, sign up and start training regularly. This is what most people do and it is what we recommend. For most it takes time to get a good feel of the practice and getting on the mat multiple times per week is the best way!