Aikido of East Alabama
An ASU affiliated Dojo


Monday & Wednesday, 6.30-8.30pm Central Time

Dues are $40/quarter

Opelika Rec Center
1152 Denson Ave
Opelika, AL 36801
(334) 663-6861

Developed in Japan by Morihei Ueshiba in the 1930s, Aikido focuses not on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own energy to gain control of them or to guide them away from you (often resulting in a throw). Because of the need for energy from the opponent, techniques depend upon movement and often appear to flow with the attack looking more like a dance than a defense. This is perhaps why Aikido is often described as "the art of stepping out of the way, gracefully". Learning to blend with an opponent's dynamic attack is what makes Aikido so challenging. It generally takes about 8 years of regular practice to reach Shodan (1st black belt rank).

Aikido practice is not about competition. We practice to improve our understanding of principles and our ability to carry them out. Thus the attacks that are given are appropriate (e.g., slower) to the level of the defender. As the defender (Nage) increases in proficiency, the attacks made by the opponent (Uke) become increasingly realistic. In this way, the safety of practice is maintained and students are able to progress at the rate appropriate to them.

We are a small but dedicated group with approximately 8 active members. Classes mix beginners with advanced students so that everyone practices together. Non-segregated classes are not only of tremendous benefit to new students, but also help to keep advanced students honest since we are always in danger of becoming trained Ukes (attackers), suspecting what is coming and moving as we expect to rather than reacting to what Nage (defender) is doing.