Chief Instructor:
Bruce Bookman - 6th Dan


The year was 1970 in Greenwich Village, New York City when I discovered aikido as a troubled twelve-year-old looking for something to do. Captivated by the beauty and power of the aikido movements I immediately joined the dojo, donned a gi (traditional uniform) and began training. As I learned each move the rich philosophy of aikido opened to me and changed my entire life. I realized I didn’t have to defeat my opponent to be victorious. This applied to school, friendships and gave me a sense of purpose.

My journey lead me to Tokyo at the age of 19 to the Aikido World Headquarters where I studied with the most prominent aikido teachers in the world. After returning from Japan it became clear to me that teaching aikido would be my life’s work. Relocating to Seattle in 1981 I was soon recognized as a strong technician. It took another 16 years of aikido teaching and practice, meditation, yoga and ultimately the lessons learned from family life before I got a glimpse of what aikido truly is. This meant seeing the whole person rather than just the attack. As my practice partner moves, his/her whole story begins to unfold. With this understanding I found it more natural to respond creatively with an open heart rather than merely retaliating.

Over the last several years the aikido program at the Tenzan Dojo has become the culmination of 33 years of intense self-study.

 

Visitors are invited to watch any class.

Aikido for Beginners

An on-going, introductory class for men and women with Bruce Bookman. Aikido is a dynamic, peaceful martial art that cultivates power, grace, flexibility, and total fitness. It encourages compassion in our interaction with others. The meditative aspect of aikido helps you to increase your vitality and focus Hundreds of men and women have been introduced to aikido through this basic class.

All Levels Class

Techniques that can be practiced at various skill levels are emphasized. This class provides a good workout and the repetition necessary to continue your progress in aikido.

Informal Practice

Students of all levels are given an opportunity to do self-directed practice under the guidance of an instructor. Members may practice anything they want and questions will be answered by the instructor.

Advanced Class

A challenging workout using rigorous training to forge body, mind, and spirit. Students are exposed to a vast array of techniques and training modalities, including boken (sword) and jo (staff ) practice. The sensitive yet intense nature of this class helps practitioners capture the essence of aikido. Prerequisite - 4th Kyu and/or permission from Bookman Sensei.

Basic Weapons

This weekly class offers students basic training in boken (wooden sword) and jo (staff ). Techniques taught correlate to aikido hand-to-hand techniques and help practitioners project their energy.

 

 

Training Location
 
Directions To This Location

Tenzan Aikido
7700 Aurora Ave N
Seattle, WA 98103

Phone: (206) 525-9035

Email:


Main Site:
http://tenzanaikido.com

 

 

 

 

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