The Art

North Star Aiki is a unity of martial arts built around a core curriculum of aiki jiujitsu, the Japanese art of self-defence. Aiki jiujitsu teaches you self-control, self-confidence, patience, unity of mind and body, and how to harmonize with others. At the same time, you learn self-defence techniques, meet new friends, and achieve personal growth.

Aiki jiujitsu employs the use of circular movements, strikes, throws, and pressure points. By controlling your opponent through the proper use of these techniques, you learn to use your opponent's own strength, size and weight against them.

As a traditional martial art, and not a martial sport, aiki jiujitsu prepares its practitioners to confront threats as they truly exist in today's world, with techniques that are designed for effective and immediate results. As such, we do not engage in point-sparring or competition in any form.

Who should train?

The easy answer: You should!

All people 13 years of age or older are welcome to train with us. There is "something for everybody" in martial arts training in general, and this is especially so at North Star Aiki. Whether you are shy and seeking the self-confidence you lack to achieve success in life; whether you feel threatened or have been threatened by bullies at school or at work; whether you are struggling to overcome the psychological effects of your past, you will find in martial arts training a remedy that is not available through any other pursuit.

It is left up to each student to choose his or her own level of involvement in the training. Whether you wish to take one or two classes a month in order to "get out of the house" for a while, or whether you wish to undertake a serious study of martial art and make its path a life-long pursuit, you will find what fits you in North Star Aiki.

The ages of our current students are as low as thirteen and as high as the mid-fifties. It is never too late to start training.

You never have to test. If you are simply seeking some physical exercise in a group setting, martial arts training with North Star Aiki is an excellent option. However, if it is your wish to ascend through the ranks, achieve your first black belt, and continue on to the highest ranks in the art, you will find a very fulfilling path at North Star Aiki.