Aikido of Austin offers a four-week Beginners’ Program that begins on the first Tuesday of each month. Beginners receive instruction in falling and basic techniques, as well as the philosophy and history of aikido.

Before becoming a member of Aikido of Austin, you must attend all 12 Beginners’ Program classes. (If you need to make other arrangements, please discuss them in advance with Sensei or the Beginners’ Program instructor.)

• Beginners’ Program classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. or 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. The program also includes two Saturday morning classes (dates to be announced). Please be on time to class.
• If you can’t make it to all the classes, you can customize your schedule. Please talk to one of our senior students or Sensei if you need to make up a beginners’ class during another class time.
• Beginners’ Program fees are due before the first class. Your non-refundable fee includes:
• 12 hours of instruction
• one practice uniform (gi)
• You must wear a clean gi to all classes. We recommend that your sign up for the program in advance and wash your new gi before attending the first class. New gi are fairly rough and uncomfortable before they have been washed.
• Don’t leave sandals, gi or other items in the dojo overnight.
• Observe all rules of the dojo at all times.

If you choose to join Aikido of Austin when you complete the program, you will need to sign up at the last program class. As a member, you will pay regular adult dues and you may attend as many classes during the month as you wish. Many beginners choose to continue taking beginners’ classes (for the regular adult dues) for several months after completing the program.

To get the most out of your aikido practice, it’s important to practice regularly. Many students find 10 to 12 hours of practice per month (about three classes a week) to be a good level. With 20 regular and beginners’ classes to choose from each week, you should be able to find classes that suit your schedule.

We encourage people of all ages (age 5 through retirement) to practice with us. If you have special needs -- such as physical limitations or schedule conflicts -- please speak with Sensei or a senior student. While we can’t accommodate every condition, we have worked with people with a variety of physical challenges. We want your aikido experience to be full of personal and physical growth. We believe you will develop a feel for aikido techniques, philosophy and some spiritual aspects during the Beginners’ Program.

Everyone starts as a beginner, and we know beginners have many questions and concerns. Please feel free to ask anyone at the dojo for help at any time. We look forward to practicing with you for many years to come.