Welcome to Aikido Yoshokai Vermont

Aikido is a form of Japanese Budo, based largely on movements and techniques of the Samurai.  While the movements in Aikido are closely related to fighting techniques, we use these techniques to study harmony and balanced relationships.  We primarily study with one partner in a class, and alternate between studying balanced, clear, guiding movements and off-balance, following movements.  These two participants work together to create one technique.  We emphasize safety and care for our partner so that both people can enjoy the study.

Aikido Yoshokai Association of Vermont, Inc. is a registered 501(c)3 educational organization and a part of the Aikido Yoshokai Association of North America (AYANA).  For more information on AYANA, please click here.  

COVID-19 Update:  In-person Classes Resume June 10

Summer 2021 Schedule:        June 10-Aug 28       (No Classes July 1, 15, or 22)

Thursdays:     5:30-6PM Open Class (All Levels, All Ages, No Contact)

6-7PM Full contact Aikido Classes for fully vaccinated individuals.

Saturdays: 9:30-10:30AM       No-contact Youth Class      July 24-Aug 28

 (Email Dojo@AikidoYoshokaiVermont.org for More Information)

We work with with Brandon Rec to offer Aikido classes in Brandon, VT. 

Outdoor, no-contact classes are ongoing.
Classes are held outside on Thursdays behind the Brandon Inn.

Brandon Rec Adult Registration
Brandon Rec Youth Registration

2021 Class Schedule listed in left sidebar

Typical class & fee schedule:
Youth I - $90 / quarterly  (Saturday 9:00-9:45 AM)
Youth II - $110 / quarterly  (Saturday 10:00-11:00 AM)

Adult Beginner - $110 / quarterly  (Monday 6:30-7:10 PM)
Adult Continuing - $120 / quarterly  (Monday 7:15-8:00 PM)

(Sponsorships are available for those who would like to study, but cannot afford the full fee.  Email Dojo@AikidoYoshokaiVermont.org for more information.)

Adult Beginner Class     (ages 14 & up)

Beginner's class is for students who have never studied Yoshokai-style Aikido before, or are still very new to the study.  Class tends to focus on Basic Movements, Breakfalls, and relatively simple techniques.  Basic Movements are stylized forms that focus on one or two principles, which we then put together in different ways to create techniques.  

In Beginner's class, we tend to focus only on one or two types of Breakfalls: ways to fall down safely and stand up again. Once we have those pieces in place, they are put together into a technique to study with a partner.

Continuing Class     (ages 14 & up)

Continuing class is for students who have either taken the AYV Beginner's class or studied Yoshokai-style Aikido at another dojo for some period of time.  Classes tend to be more complex, faster paced, and include study of Buki, or wooden practice weapons (sword, staff, and knife) as well as more advanced breakfalls.

Youth I Class    (ages 6-14; for Beginners)

Youth II Class  (ages 7-14; green belt and above)

Youth class focuses less on the technical aspects of Aikido and more on having fun working with others in a safe environment.  It is a study involving discipline and etiquette, so students learn to remain focused and attentive throughout class, but games and stories are often included.