Kids Aikido Calgary

Calgary Rakushinkan offers traditional kids aikido in Calgary for children ages 7–13. Our structured program introduces aikido for kids in a safe, respectful environment while building confidence, coordination, and focus. If you are looking for martial arts for children in North Calgary, our non-competitive, traditional approach may be the right fit for your family.

Benefits of Japanese Martial Arts practice for kids:

• Enhances Coordination: Improves hand-eye coordination and body movement through precise sword techniques.

• Builds Discipline: Encourages focus, patience, and adherence to traditional practices and etiquette.

• Boosts Confidence: Fosters self-esteem as children learn and master complex techniques.

• Teaches Respect: Instills respect for instructors, fellow students, and the art form itself.

• Promotes Self-Defense: Provides practical skills in sword handling and awareness of personal safety.

• Encourages Teamwork: Develops collaboration and camaraderie through partner drills and group activities.

• Improves Concentration: Strengthens mental focus and strategic thinking through structured practice.

• Cultivates Problem-Solving Skills: Teaches tactical thinking and adaptability in various scenarios.

• Boosts Physical Fitness: Enhances strength, agility, and endurance through rigorous training.

• Provides Historical Awareness: Introduces children to cultural and historical aspects of martial arts and swordsmanship.
  Cultural Appreciation: Introduces children to Japanese history, traditions, and the cultural significance of samurai and swordsmanship.

• Understanding of Tradition: Teaches respect for historical practices and the traditional aspects of martial arts.

• Language and Terminology: Exposes children to Japanese terminology and phrases used in Japanese Martial Arts, broadening their linguistic and cultural awareness.

• Ceremonial Practices: Familiarizes children with traditional practices and rituals associated with Japanese Martial Arts, such as bowing and proper etiquette.

• Connection to Japanese Philosophy: Offers an introduction to Japanese philosophical concepts such as mindfulness and harmony, which are integral to martial arts training.

Interested in our Kids Martial Arts program?

Use our Sign-up form below and we'll contact you as soon as we can.

Many parents wonder, “What is the best martial art for kids?” We’ve written a detailed guide to help families decide—read our guide on "Which Martial Art Is Best for Kids?"

Mondays: 5:00 - 6:15 pm
Winston Heights-Mountview Community Association
520 27 Ave NE, Calgary

Wednesdays: 5:00 - 6:15 pm
Mount Pleasant Community Association
602 22 Ave NW, Calgary

Schedule:

*** please note the 2 nearby locations straddling Centre street north ***

Fees: $75/month

➜ Learn more about the instructor

We teach safe tumbling & breakfalls, dojo respect, self-control, and gentle aiki skills. Kids grow stronger, calmer, and kinder through real Japanese martial arts—including sword work as they advance. It’s a fun, structured space where they learn responsibility and expectations: guarding others' safety, supporting training partners, and growing together with focus, confidence, and empathy—while moving with harmony instead of force.

Who is this for?

Our kids martial arts program is ideal for:

• Children who need confidence

• Kids who struggle with focus

• Families seeking non-competitive martial arts

• Parents looking for traditional martial arts for children in Calgary

How does the free trial work. What happens after?

It's very informal. Just contact us using the form below to let us know you're interested, then come join a few classes and participate. If it feels like a good fit and you want to continue, we'll handle a quick registration (waiver, etc.) and you'll start your monthly dues.

Is Aikido safe for children?

Yes, very safe when approached properly. Initial focus is (and must be) on ukemi. This is how to receive techniques. So we work on tumbling and breakfalls and how to protect yourself. Our practice does not include sparring or competition. Students learn through the pedagogy of Japanese martial arts - that is, the practice is mindfully structured and students cooperate to improve their techniques.

How does the class structure work for kids?

Class begins and ends with rei. After bowing in, we typically warm up, practice some tumbling/breakfalls, work on techniques with partners, include a fun game or structured play, then bow out.

What kind of behaviour is expected from children in class?

We focus first on respect - respect for the dojo, respect for the instructor and respect for our partners. Next is self-control, care for partners safety and development. Attention and listening is a great challenge in today's age of screens, distractions and dopamine hits. Not every child is capable of this immediately, and it is something that we work on and build together.

Do kids learn weapons right away?

Weapons work is sprinkled in here and there from the beginning. This helps develop the historical and practical context of our martial arts. As body skills develop and more importantly control, weapons (short sword, long sword, stick, knife, etc) are introduced.

How does Aikido help with my child's focus and confidence?

Through regular practice, achieving small milestones, and positive feedback from partners, kids naturally build focus and confidence. The non-competitive setting lets them improve at their own pace while feeling supported.

What should my child wear to their first class?

Comfortable clothes like long sleeve t-shirt and pants. A dogi (martial arts uniform) is not required initially. however, if your child has one, even a different style (judo, BJJ, karate, etc), please wear it.

How quickly will my child progress?

Every child progresses at their own pace. Our emphasis is on personal development over belts/ranks. However, we do track attendance and hours of practice, and we do test for belts when ready.

Can parents watch classes?

Yes, parents are welcome to stay and watch or come and go as they please.

Is the program competitive or does it involve fighting?

There is no competition in our martial arts. Each day we practice, we try to get better than who we were the previous practice. Our techniques are very effective and destructive if not practiced safely. Pressure testing and resistive practice can be done, be must be practiced in a monitored and controlled environment appropriate to the level of skill.

F.A.Q.

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