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Aikido: The Art of Peace

  • Merced Multicultural Arts Center 645 W. Main Street Merced, CA 95340 United States (map)

Join teacher and 3rd Degree Black Belt Enrique Chimeyo for Akido classes at the MAC!

When: Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 5 PM to 6PM

Cost: $60 a month or $10 drop ins

Translated as “the way of harmony” or “the way of peace” Aikido (合気道) seeks to unite body, mind, and spirit with the universal forces of nature.  Aikido is a Japanese martial art that effectively utilizes joint locks, throws, strikes, and pins to neutralize an attacker. Through circular movement and advantageous position, techniques redirect the force of aggression to harmonize with the encounter.

Paradoxically, Aikido is a nonviolent martial art. We commit fully to each martial encounter, yet our practice seeks to neutralize conflict. In this way, Aikido promotes peace through us out into the world. Through Aikido, we can move beyond the duality of winning and losing. In doing so, we reach a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. 

 Aikido training is physically rigorous but does not rely on strength. During class, you will learn to properly and safely receive the techniques, which include, but are not limited to, projections, throws, and falls. This training develops endurance, flexibility, stability, situational awareness and responsiveness. As techniques rely on position and timing, strength is not necessarily an advantage in any encounter.

There are no competitions in Aikido. A student’s progress is measured only by their effort to develop themselves. In classes, we don’t spar to win a match, but work with partners to improve our techniques.

Aikido is an inclusive martial art.

In an Aikido class, everyone works together – all levels, all sizes, all strengths, all genders, all backgrounds, and all abilities are welcome. There is something to learn for every person, whether advanced or beginner, younger or older. Aikido is practiced around the world, across countries, cultures, languages, and religions.

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