Physical Education: Martial Arts: Aikido

Basic Aikido techniques, such as throws and immobilizing holds, are taught in this martial art that emphasizes leverage and circular movements as defensive techniques.

PEAC Fee: $230.00; Class takes place at Aikido of Champlain Valley; Students must provide own transportation Open to degree and PACE students

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A The Japanese Martial Art of Aikido Spring 2024 INSTRUCTOR: Benjamin Pincus EMAIL: bpincus@burlingtonaikido.org CLASS TIMES: Tues/Thursday 6:00-7:00pm PHONE: (802)249-0359 (personal cell phone) or 802-951-8900 dojo number Class Location: Aikido of Champlain Valley, 257 Pine Street, Burlington (entrance and parking behind the building). Visit us on the web at www.burlingtonaikido.org Course Summary: Aikido, the way (do) of blending with (ai) energy (ki) is a traditional Japanese martial art. By using throws and immobilizing holds, an aikido student redirects and neutralizes the force of the opponent's attack. Aikido is characterized by circular, blending movements rather than direct blocks common in more linear martial arts like Tae Kwon Do or Karate. Aikido has very few striking techniques. Instead, training emphasizes generating internal power (ki) and a sophisticated understanding of the science of leverage and unbalancing (kuzushi). Aikido's circular movements are powerful and effective, particularly against physically stronger opponents. In this class, students will learn the art of falling (ukemi) and basic evasive movements (tai sabaki). Students will then study defenses against basic attacks (wrist grabs) and progress to more advanced attacks (strikes, chokes, knife attacks, etc.). Aikido is not a solo form; it emphasizes paired practice over solo kata. Students should feel comfortable with close physical contact. It is now optional to wear a mask while training. Learning Objectives: • Psychomotor Goals: Aikido conditioning teaches body/mind integration. By integrating breath work with aerobic conditioning, integrated, relaxed movement and flexibility training, aikido teaches us how to relax under stress and learn how to generate power through relaxed and flowing movement. • Cognitive Skill Goals: The founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, once said “Depending on the circumstance, one should be as hard as a diamond, flexible as a willow, free flowing like water, or empty as space.” The curriculum will include an understanding of how to apply the principles of conflict resolution in order to increase martial effectiveness and discover greater harmony in one’s life. The aikido student learns how to cultivate the principles of power and fortitude along with resiliency, learning how to avoid and blend with both physical and verbal attacks. • Wellness/Lifelong Fitness Goals: Training integrates yogic stretching, breathwork, and plyometric training to cultivate relaxation, aerobic fitness and the cultivation of internal power with a powerful and flexible body. An integral aspect of training is the art of ukemi, or falling practice. Skillful falling is perhaps one of the best self-defense tools one could gain from their practice.

Classes will take place in the traditional Dojo (literally, “place of the way/path”) near downtown Burlington. If the student requests, the instructor can recommend additional reading material. The course primarily emphasizes the physical training of aikido. The class will also practice traditional Japanese etiquette – Reigi. All students are expected to be respectful of this tradition. Aikido involves bowing – please notify the instructor if you have any questions or concerns about this aspect of the tradition.

Attendance & Participation Since PEAC classes are based on physical activity and skill development, participation is crucial to the learning process. Participation includes active presence, effort and improvement, rather than initial physical aptitude or prior martial experience. Students must show up to class and be ready to partake in all class exercises. Students must attend 80% of classes to receive a passing grade. Failure to attend at least 80% of classes will result in a failing grade. Therefore, in order to pass the course, students must not miss more than 6 classes. Students are expected to arrive on time; three (3) late arrivals will count as one (1) absence. If you need to miss classes, you must contact the teacher preceding the class and let him know the reason for your absence. Making up missed classes: Students are eligible to make up missed classes if they become a member of Aikido of Champlain Valley, attend additional classes at other times, and notify the teacher that they attended those additional classes. Keikogi is mandatory if you train in other classes. Skills & Knowledge Assessment: At the end of the semester we will schedule tests. The techniques will be announced in Japanese; the student will be evaluated on his/her understanding of the test names, the techniques, and their understanding of ukemi or falling practice. The student will be evaluated on an individual basis rather than natural aptitude, so it is possible that an athlete who fails to practice for the test could receive a lower score than a student who diligently applies themselves to learning. We will review the test techniques throughout the semester. In order to pass, all students must attend the final exam/class. Grading Criteria Attendance and Participation 70 Points Skills and Knowledge Assessment 30 Points