About Us

Mission

Aikido at The Center is an organization formed to share the teaching and principles of Aikido, in the lineage of Morihei Ueshiba O’Sensei and Morihiro Saito Shihan.

Our Dojo

Aikido at the Center is a not-for-profit dojo founded in 1993 by Judith Robinson.  Robinson Sensei is a 6th degree black belt with over 30 years of experience.  We are an Iwama style dojo associated with the Takemusu Aikido Association. The TAA is an association of schools dedicated to following O’ Sensei’s Aikido as learned by his long time student Morhiro Saito Shihan.

Teaching style

Our teaching style is friendly and relaxed. Since Aikido stresses harmony and non-violence, there are no competition tournaments or full-contact sparring. Students marks their progress by passing formal tests in which they demonstrate Aikido techniques. They must exhibit skill in technique, as well as calmness under pressure, seriousness and diligence, and an open attitude to learning. 

Dojo principles

In accordance with O’Sensei’s directive, Aikido at the Center does not discriminate based on race, gender expression, sexual orientation, creed, national origin, political beliefs, or age. All are welcome in our dojo.

Dojo values

Respect

Consistently display courtesy and good manners to others and lead through inspiration and example and act with modesty.

 

 

Integrity

 

Accept personal responsibility for the highest ethical standards of behaviour including honesty and fairness in all we do. Recognise that each of us is responsible for what we do.

 

 

Safety

 

Demonstrate self-control and good judgment in interactions with others and display considered responses to provocation.

 

 

Support

Support everyone to take good care of themselves. Not feel guilty for not being able to participate or contribute.

 

 

Inclusion

Everyone who shares our vision and goals and upholds these values is welcome to join us.

 

 

Commitment

Show sincerity and effort in all undertakings.

 

 

Learning

 

Continuously improve both in our aikido and other activities.

 

 

Cooperation

Encourage collaboration, sharing and helpfulness.

 

 

Courage

Do the right thing even if when it’s uncomfortable or scary.