Classes at the Prospect Lake Community Centre, Sparton Rd, Saanich. (Map)
Have you been curious about Aikido? Come and try a class. We are a friendly, welcoming group. Our Dojo space in rural Saanich is just a 15-20 minute drive from most parts of Victoria, and easily accessible by bike via the Interurban Rail Trail. Join anytime.
A comprehensive martial art, our classes focus on mind-body connections in a safe and non-competitive format. They help provide a more coordinated body and discipline mind. Practised with partners, our classes are a fun way to maintain health and a balanced outlook together with self-defense, and are taught by world class instructors.
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NEW!! Option to sign up through the Saanich Recreation activity program.
Map to our Dojo
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What is Aikido?
General information about Aikido
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Happenings at our Dojo
The circular movements of Aikido redirect the energy of attacks. Aikido training involves cooperation rather than competition.
Timing is more important than speed; sensitivity is more important than strength, making Aikido ideal for youth, women and men of all ages.
Aikido training helps mind-body connectedness, relieves stress, helps physical fitness, and promotes mental health, leading to a more positive outlook.
We practise the Gozo Shioda Yoshinkan Aikido style. Our dojo name "Shinbukan" was provided by Gozo Shioda on his visit to Canada in 1991.
Our instructors give freely of their time as volunteers and we are registered in BC as a non-profit society. Training fees cover overheads such as rent, insurance, mats, equipment, etc.
We also welcome visits by high-ranked guest instructors from Japan and elsewhere.
Instructor Biographies & Black-belt StudentsIsland Aikido provides ranking through a colour belt system leading to black belt levels. Individual progress is achieved through a steady, organized teaching structure. Our instructors are registered in Japan. A focus at the club is helping students grow their experience, with encouragement to perhaps become new instructors.
Aikido involves circular movements and techniques to redirect the energy and body of an attacker. It is a defensive, non-aggressive art. The emphasis in training is on cooperation rather than competition. The circular movements of Aikido typically end in a pin or a throw. Students learn to look after each other and themselves so that throws and pins can be practised safely.
The observation of personal safety and security in training permit very powerful techniques to be developed and practised. Flowing (harmony) with your partner is more important than aggression.
Experienced students learn to defend themselves against multiple unarmed and armed attacks. Many Aikido techniques are derived from the circular sword movements of the Samurai and weapons training is a part of Aikido.
Our dojo name "Shinbukan" derives from Japanese terms meaning place of martial spirit.