Aikido Eastside

Chief Instructor: George Ledyard, 5th Dan

Aikido The Martial Art Which Wins Without Defeating AIKIDO is a non-violent Japanese martial art which has no competition and strives to allow one to defend without the necessity of seriously harming the attacker. The art developed in the mid 20th century as a gift to all mankind by Master Morihei Ueshiba, O Sensei.

The techniques of this art as taught to George Ledyard Sensei (right) by his teacher Mitsugi Saotome Sensei (left) focus on control and neutralization of an attack through harmonious movement and non-resistance. Since the unarmed techniques of Aikido originally derive from weapons techniques we train with the traditional weapons of sword and staff on an almost daily basis. People train in Aikido for a number of reasons. It is a system of self defense and great exercise. In addition it is also a form of moving meditation with a strong spiritual underpinning and even serves as the model for various systems of conflict resolution. The emphasis on movement and redirection of force make Aikido the perfect martial art for those who are not physically large or powerful individuals. Aikido training will develop a relaxed and centered manner when facing conflict. It is a martial art which focuses on personal development as much as physical self defense and should prove useful in the every day lives of the students in a multitude of ways.

George Ledyard Sensei began his Aikido studies in 1977 under the direct instruction of Mitsugi Saotome Sensei. Sensei currently holds the rank of 5th Dan in Aikido and is a Certified Police Defensive Tactics Master Instructor. He is the Founder of Defensive Tactics Options™, a system of police and security training which specializes in less-than-lethal force alternatives and Options for Protective Control™, an ultra low-level force system for physical intervention with juveniles and emotionally disturbed subjects. Sensei Ledyard believes that Aikido should be both a spiritual practice and a martial art. He is known for his work with the staff and sword and also for an innovative approach to applied empty-hand technique which brings in elements from his training in Jiu Jutsu, Classical Japanese Kobudo, Iaido, and Filipino martial arts.

The Beginner class focuses on Aikido fundamentals such as rolling, knee walking, entering and turning movements and the various techniques done in their basic forms. Students of all ranks attend these classes in order to perfect their kihon waza (basic techniques).

The All Level class allows higher level technical variations and more intensive training. Understanding how the martial, energy/movement, and spiritual sides of Aikido relate and form a unified whole is a prime focus of this training as well as acquiring deeper technical skill in the techniques of the art.

Those individuals who have demonstrated the ability and commitment to their training which higher level practice requires will be invited by the Chief Instructor to participate in the Advanced Training class. In addition to advanced Aikido training these students will be exposed to aspects of other martial traditions which will augment their skills.

Programs for Children

Aikido is a non-violent, non competitive Japanese martial art. Its principles are based on non-resistance and harmonious movement. It is an ideal art for young people because its philosophy is non-confrontational and the techniques are designed to be executed without injury to the attacker. Practice fosters a calm and centered attitude toward handling conflict. Training will increase the student's coordination and self confidence. Since the art relies primarily on blending with force rather than opposing it the attacks are neutralized using circular movements and are designed to be effective without being destructive. Emphasis is on controlling an attack rather than resisting it. Children learn respect for themselves and their classmates, self discipline, and confidence. The training is carried on in a friendly, coed atmosphere with students of all age levels working together. Parents are greatly encouraged to participate in the training with their children.


The Children's Basics class exposes students to a mix of formal technique and games which are designed to foster an understanding of Aikido's basic principles. Aikido practice for these children fosters discipline and mutual respect. Additionally, they begin to learn the basic techniques of Aikido and their Japanese names. Games teach various lessons about attitude and awareness in a fun context and serve as a reward when the students have stayed focused on the more routine aspects of training. A number of kids have parents who participate in the class with them and we wholeheartedly encourage this! Colored belts are awarded at the discretion of the Chief Instructor as a reward for progress made on issues which are specific to each child rather than on a strictly technical basis. This class emphasizes the non-competitive nature of Aikido and teaches the students how to work cooperatively. Students of all ranks attend these classes in order to perfect their kihon waza (basic techniques).


The Children's Advanced class allows young people who have trained for some time and older kids who are faster learners to have more of a challenge. Sword and Jo techniques with wooden practice weapons are introduced as well as techniques which they need to eventually move into the Adult program but which are not taught to the younger children. As in the Basics class a number of kids have parents who participate in the class with them and we wholeheartedly encourage this! Variations on basic techniques are taught and the emphasis in on understanding the underlying principles of Aikido.

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Aikido Eastside
13410 SE 32nd Street • Bellevue, WA 98005
Contact us by phone at (206) 868-1902 or Fax (206) 868-5143

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We encourage you to drop by and observe a class or two and meet our instructors.

Visiting Hours Are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Between 4 P.M. and 5:30 P.M. for Young Peoples Classes
Between 6 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. for Adult Classes
Police Defensive Tactics by Appointment Only

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