1. What is Aikido?
On a purely physical level Aikido is a Japanese martial art that includes techniques for bare-handed wrestling, using weapons, and dealing with an armed enemy. It does not focus on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own energy to gain control of them or to throw them away from you. It is not a static art, but places great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement.
Philosophically speaking, it is a way of life and of being in harmony with others. Although the idea of a martial discipline striving for harmony may seem paradoxical, it is the most basic tenet of the art.
At its core there are at least two fundamental teachings: a commitment to peaceful resolution of conflict whenever possible and a commitment to self-improvement.
2. What is the history of Aikido?Briefly, Aikido is a martial art awash in tradition and culture with aiki, the core concept of Aikido, being traced to the Edo period (1603 – 1868) of Japanese history. It was derived from techniques used by the samurai, and developed into a modern art by Morihei Ueshiba or ‘O Sensei’ in the 1930s.
3. What style of Aikido do we practice?
We practice the Aikikai style because it is the traditional Aikido developed and taught by O Sensei. The Aikikai Foundation was officially recognized by the Japanese government in 1940.
4. How is Aikido different from other martial arts?
While other martial arts focus on offense and competitions, Aikido teaches you how to defend yourself in the event of a conflict. The fundamental principal of Aikido is to avoid conflict, but be ready to use it if there is no other option.
5. What are the benefits of Aikido?
There are many benefits to Aikido including physical and spiritual. Aikido is an aerobic exercise that gives a person better balance, a stress relief, strength, confidence, and the ability to defend oneself in a conflict. It can also be spiritual, and it teaches respect and harmony with others and your surroundings.
6. How is the Shindokan different from other Orange County Aikido dojos?There are two major differences between our dojo and others in OC. The first is that the Chief Instructor, Sensei, is 2nd generation disciple of the founder of Aikido – O Sensei. We are fortunate to have Sugano Sensei, a 1st generation disciple of O Sensei, conduct an annual seminar at our dojo. Our Sensei is the 1st generation disciple of Sugano Sensei.
The second is that we are a full-time dojo – meaning that Sensei has dedicated his life to Aikido. Sensei’s profession is Aikido! Our dojo is open for morning, lunch, evening, and weekend classes.
7. Are there any age limits to starting Aikido?
There is no age limit when it comes to starting Aikido.
8. Is Aikido safe for children?
Absolutely, Aikido is not violent. There is no hitting or kicking, and great care is taken to teach new students the proper way to roll out of a technique.
9. How old does a child need to be to start Aikido?
A child can start as young as 4 years old.
10. Do you offer classes to teenagers?
It is our experience that teenagers benefit the most by attending the adult classes, and we have many teenagers at the dojo.
11. How fit do I need to be to start Aikido?
You do not need to be fit to start Aikido, but you will become fit if you do Aikido. Virtually anyone can start Aikido.
12. Can I observe a class?
Yes. We encourage observing a class before making a decision to start Aikido.
13. Why are etiquette and bowing part of the training?
Etiquette is part of Aikido training as it is part of any social setting. New students need to know proper etiquette to maintain the traditions of Aikido.
Bowing in Aikido reflects the Japanese culture, and it is a form of respect for the dojo, sensei, and other students. We believe retaining these cultural influences enriches the experience of learning Aikido. There is no religious implication to bowing in Aikido.
14. With what organizations are the dojo affiliated?
We are affiliated with the United States Aikido Federation (USAF) and the Hombu Dojo in Japan (Aikido Federation).
15. Who is the instructor?
The Chief Instructor is Pennewaert Sensei, and he is a 5th dan, Shidoin meaning 5th degree black belt and instructor. He has been studying Aikido for 27 years.
16. What is the lineage of your dojo?
Pennewaert Sensei, the Chief Instructor, is a 2nd generation student of ‘O Sensei’, the founder, and a disciple of a 1st generation disciple of ‘O Sensei’.
Morihei Ueshiba, ‘O Sensei’ – Aikido Founder
Sugano Sensei – 1st generation disciple of ‘O Sensei’ (8th dan)
Pennewaert Sensei – 1st generation disciple of Sugano Sensei (5th dan)
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