Aikido for Beginners

Whether you are an adult or a child, man or woman, mature or young, whether you are looking for fun, fitness or for self-defense, you are welcome to come along and watch any of our Aikido classes. Better still, come along prepared to give Aikido a try.

Getting started with Aikido

Everyone you see training on the mat, including the expert teacher, was once a beginner just like you. They remember their own first Aikido session and understand how you feel and they will do their best to make sure you enjoy your first session.

Training Centers (Dojos) throughout New Zealand are listed on the right hand side of this page. To find out about class times and dojo addresses, just click on the location nearest you.

Is there a dedicated beginners class?

Yes there is, this class can be found at the Aikido Shinryukan Headquarters 16 Aberfoyle St Mt Eden Auckland.

Beginners Training Times:

WEDNESDAY /  SATURDAY
6:30-7:30pm / 10:00-11:00am

Is there a minimum age?

Junior classes welcome children between the ages of 7 to 12 years. To join an adult class you must be 13 years or older. Check with your local training centre to find out whether they also have combined adult and Children’s Classes.

What should I wear?

Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing if you would like to join in the Aikido session. A sweatshirt and training pants are fine. Or a track-suit.

It’s not necessary to have a martial arts uniform (dogi) at this stage. Later, when you have decided that Aikido is for you, your teacher will advise you about what dogi will be best for you.

What should I do when I arrive?

Try to arrive ten minutes before the class starts. Introduce yourself to the Aikido instructor. If you’re not sure which person is the instructor, ask any of the members who will be glad to introduce you.

Aikido members refer to their instructor as “Sensei” which is the Japanese word for “Teacher”.

What should I expect in a training session?

Your first class will start with light warm-ups gradually increasing in intensity.

After the warm-up you will be shown how to breakfall (ukemi). Then the instructor will demonstrate a self-defense technique or exercise.

You will be taught dojo etiquette and will begin to practise the techniques that you are shown with a partner.

The class finishes with light warm-downs. Lastly the members bow to each other and shake hands.

Where can I go to see Aikido in action?

There are Aikido Training Centres throughout Auckland and New Zealand.

If you click on any of the locations on the right hand side of this page, you will be able to see training centre locations and training times.

You are welcome to come along to watch a training session.