I have always been interested in martial arts, but for many years, I never had the opportunity to begin. As I grew older, I wondered if Aikido might be something I could do, and a friend recommended Yoshinkan, saying, ""At Yoshinkan, the structured practice of basic movements provides a solid foundation, allowing even beginners to progress with confidence."" That encouragement led me to take my first step.

The instructors have been incredibly patient, teaching with great care, and my senior classmates have also offered words of encouragement, reassuring me that ""Athletic ability doesn't matter—if you keep going, you will surely gain something."" Those words kept me going. At first, I never imagined earning a black belt, thinking, ""It would be wonderful if I could achieve it in my lifetime."" But after four years of steady practice, I finally reached that milestone.

Aikido was appealing because it required no special equipment and didn’t rely on physical strength—it seemed like the most approachable martial art. When I first came for a trial class, I was amazed by how warmly I was welcomed. I even wondered, "Wait, is this a dojo or a relative’s home?"

The instructors and senior students don’t just say, "Watch and learn." They take the time to explain things thoroughly. Since starting Aikido, my posture has improved so much that my sister recently asked, "Did you get taller?" Saturday morning training sets the tone for a productive and refreshing weekend—I get my exercise in, and I don’t end up lazing around for the rest of the day.

Don’t feel intimidated by the word "dojo." It’s a friendly and welcoming space—come and give it a try!

I was drawn to Aikido by its philosophy of "Tai Sureba Ai Wazu"—harmony through encounter. This concept has become a guiding principle not only in my training but also in my work and personal life. I often find myself wondering, "Is there a way to communicate without confrontation, just as in Aikido techniques?"

Thanks to my training, I have learned to relax in critical moments, and I feel that my thoughts and intentions now reach others more effectively. Japanese culture is filled with wisdom, traditions, and knowledge worth exploring. Training in Aikido has not only enriched my life but even relieved my chronic shoulder stiffness. If you are even slightly interested, I encourage you to give it a try—you may discover something truly valuable.

My child became interested in Aikido after watching a practice session through the dojo’s glass window, and that’s how we started at the Yoshinkan Headquarters Dojo. Since beginning Aikido, my child’s legs have grown much stronger—now they can climb steep hills without stopping!

They’ve also said, "It’s fun to have so many different instructors." Aikido not only builds physical strength but also teaches manners and focus, making it a meaningful way to spend time after school. I’m especially hopeful that it will serve as a valuable self-defense skill for my daughter.