Aikido Workshop in Cincinnati
Experience Aikidō — a peaceful Japanese martial art focused on balance, energy, and non-resistance.
Audience
Ages 8+ (teens and adults recommended)
Duration
60–90 minutes
Fee
Starts at $500
Aikido Workshop
What Is Aikido?
Aikido (合気道) is a modern Japanese martial art that focuses on harmony, redirection, and control—not combat or aggression. The term combines 合 (ai, “harmony”), 気 (ki, “energy”), and 道 (dō, “path”), meaning “the way of harmonizing energy.”
Rather than overpowering an opponent, Aikido teaches how to blend with movement and redirect force. Techniques involve joint locks, balance shifts, and gentle throws. Aikido is practiced with a partner and often includes wooden weapons training to reinforce timing, distance, and posture.
It’s both a physical and philosophical discipline, promoting awareness, calm, and mutual respect.
What You Get from This Workshop
This introductory workshop blends demonstration and guided participation. It’s a great fit for students, educators, or anyone curious about Japanese martial arts.
You’ll Experience:
- A live demonstration of Aikido techniques and movements
- Hands-on practice with guided, safe interaction
- Insight into the cultural and philosophical roots of Aikido
No experience is necessary. The focus is on presence, balance, and respect—rather than strength or sparring.
NOTE: Everyone participating in the demo will need to sign a waiver. Those under the age of 18 will need parents to sign permission slips.
Workshop Details
Audience
Youth (8+), teens, adults
Duration
60–90 minutes
Format
Demonstration plus beginner-level guided movement
Fee
Starts at $500
Materials Included
Mats provided if needed
Setting
Aikido of Cincinnati (Dojo)
6620 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45213
About the Instructor
Charlie McGinnis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this like karate or judo?
Do I need to be in shape?
Will I be thrown?
For those interested, part of the training will be to learn how to do a safety fall.