At Aikido of Modesto our philosophy is that Aikido is the study of energy, ego and balance. In Aikido, one learns how balance can be a source of great strength. Strength in this art flows from the student's ability to move with both physical and mental balance, enabling them to harmonize with their partner/attacker.

The martial goal in aikido is to bring peaceful conclusions to potentially chaotic situations.

The spiritual goal is to create, in ones self, a more centered and mindful individual. With a better understanding of themselves, the student will have a better understanding of others.

Aikido is not a study of combat. It is a study of energy, ego and balance. To study these things, especially in the early stages, aikido practice is very cooperative. In aikido practice, students take turns applying the techniques on each other. To help keep the practice safe and fun, students are taught ukemi. Ukemi involves attacking properly, and also how to deal with techniques as they are applied to you, so as not to get hurt. Proper ukemi makes the practice fun and rewarding for all students.

We feel one does not study aikido simply to learn how to physically defeat others. There are many martial arts with that goal. Aikido is unique. It is for the person looking for a deeper understanding of themselves, as well as an effective alternative to fighting.

******

Aikido of Modesto is a non-profit organization that teaches an ethical and non-violent style of aikido. We offer a friendly, non-competitive, environment where the focus is on self discovery and physical well being, rather then winning physical confrontations.

Aikido of Modesto is an ASU (Aikido Schools of Ueshiba) affiliate.

ASU (Aikido Schools of Ueshiba)



ASU is headed by Master teacher Mitsugi Saotome. Saotome sensei was apprentice to O-sensei for more then 15 years, and has been the head of ASU for several decades.

Rank achieved in ASU is recognized by ASU dojos all over the country, as well as at the Hombu Dojo (Home Dojo), in Tokyo, Japan.