Boulder Japanese Martial Arts: Aikido, Iaido, Yoga + Taiko

We are proud to be part of One Dojo in Boulder Colorado. One Dojo offers different types of martial arts, yoga, and taiko.

Go here to see our current martial arts schedule.

Aikido

Classes for Adults, Teens, Tweens, Children & Families.

Choose from three distinct styles of Aikido.

Practice the art of peace and learn to deal with confrontations, diffuse attacks, and subdue your opponent by applying locks, throws, and immobilization.

Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, Aikikai Aikido, and Aikikai Tanshinjuku are three different approaches to the practice of Aikido, a Japanese martial art.

Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, often referred to as Ki Aikido, is a style of Aikido that emphasizes the concept of ‘ki,’ or life force. It was founded by Koichi Tohei, a former chief instructor of the Aikikai Hombu Dojo. Ki Aikido focuses on harmony of mind and body and incorporates techniques to enhance the practitioner’s understanding of ‘ki’ to improve their Aikido techniques.

Aikikai Aikido is the style of Aikido that is directly affiliated with the Aikikai Foundation in Japan, the organization founded by Morihei Ueshiba, the creator of Aikido. This style is often considered as ‘mainstream’ Aikido and is practiced worldwide. It emphasizes flowing, circular movements and techniques that use the opponent’s energy against them.

Aikikai Tanshinjuku was founded in 2000 by Kei Izawa sensei. Izawa Sensei, chief instructor of Aikikai Tanshinjuku, began his practice of Aikido in Tokyo, Japan, at Aikikai Hombu Dojo in 1969, under the later Doshu Kisshomaru Ueshiba, a week after O Sensei passed away.

Iaido

Start Japanese Swordsmanship with Iaido Tanshinjuku

Iaido is a traditional Japanese martial art that places significant emphasis on the aesthetic and spiritual aspects of swordsmanship. It is often described as a form of “moving Zen” due to its meditative qualities.

The art form primarily focuses on the process of drawing the sword, the killing blow, the shaking off of blood, and the placement of the sword back into the scabbard. Iaido aims to cultivate self-discipline, focus, and a sense of calm readiness. Unlike other martial arts, iaido is typically practiced solo and not against an adversary.

The practitioner performs a series of kata (predetermined forms) against an imaginary opponent, allowing them to perfect their technique while also cultivating an inner calm and mental discipline. Each movement in iaido is precise and deliberate, reflecting the high level of skill and concentration required.

Japanese Taiko Drumming

“The essence of learning taiko is not only the skillful playing of percussion instruments, but also the discipline of mind and body, in the spirit of complete respect and unity among the drummers.”

Four Major Elements of Japanese Taiko Drumming

Karada – The discipline of body strength, power, stamina
Kokoro – The discipline of mind, self-control & spirit
Waza – Musical skills, physical expression, rhythm
Rei – Communication manner, harmony, language, unit of spirit between players & drum

Taiko drumming, known in Japan as “Wadaiko,” is a traditional form of percussion that has a history spanning centuries. These drums come in various sizes and are used in a range of settings, from religious ceremonies and theatre to festivals and modern performances. Taiko drumming is not just about creating rhythmic sounds; it also involves highly choreographed movements which make performances visually compelling. The art of Taiko is deeply intertwined with spirituality and community in Japan.

It’s a communal activity that brings people together, fostering a sense of unity through rhythm and movement. Modern Taiko ensembles, such as the renowned Kodo, have taken the traditional elements of Taiko and infused them with contemporary music styles, expanding the audience and appreciation for this dynamic form of Japanese music. The powerful sounds of the Taiko drums, combined with the physicality and energy of the performance, make Taiko drumming a truly immersive experience.

Yoga

We offer three different types of yoga classes that happen every day.

Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin are distinct styles within the diverse landscape of yoga, each with its own focus and methodology.

Hatha Yoga is often considered the root of all yoga styles and focuses on physical postures, known as asanas, and breath control, or pranayama. The goal of Hatha Yoga is to balance the opposing forces of the sun (ha) and moon (tha) within the body. It is typically slower paced, providing ample time to explore each pose’s alignment and breath work. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners or those seeking a more meditative, grounded practice.

Vinyasa Yoga, also known as “flow yoga,” is characterized by smooth, flowing sequences of asanas synchronized with the breath. The term “Vinyasa” is derived from the Sanskrit terms “vi,” meaning “in a special way,” and “nyasa,” meaning “to place.” Thus, Vinyasa is often interpreted as a mindful arrangement of poses. Vinyasa classes are typically more dynamic and physically challenging, making them popular with those seeking a more active workout.

Yin Yoga is a slow-paced style that emphasizes holding postures for extended periods, typically from three to five minutes. Rather than working the muscles through active engagement, Yin Yoga targets the body’s deep connective tissues, like the fascia, ligaments, and joints. This style of yoga is often used to increase flexibility and improve joint mobility, while also encouraging a meditative focus and an inner sense of peace. It serves as a counterbalance to more active, yang styles of yoga, like Hatha and Vinyasa.

We look forward to seeing you at One Dojo

Go here to see our current martial arts schedule.