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Unlock Your Potential
Step onto the mats of Island Aikido in Victoria and embark on a journey of transformation. Discover the potent and authentic Japanese martial art of Aikido — a path to effective self-defence, inner calm, and personal growth. Experience the empowering blend of physical discipline and peaceful conflict resolution offered here, by world-class instructors. Classes for adults and youth, plus special programs.
Tuesday & Thursday: 7:00–8:30 pm
Sunday: 10:30 am–12:00 pm
5358 Sparton Road, Victoria, BC
Minutes from Royal Oak, Cordova Bay, Colwood, Brentwood Bay.
What is Aikido?
The Modern Martial Art
Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art for self-defence that redirects aggression. Unlike combative styles, Aikido practitioners blend with an attacker's energy and redirect it through graceful, circular movements. The result is effective self-defence that doesn't rely on strength or cause unnecessary harm.
Flowing Technique
Master circular movements that neutralize attacks with minimal effort and maximum efficiency
Cooperative Training
Train with partners, not opponents—building trust and mutual respect on every technique
Mind-Body Unity
Develop profound awareness, mental clarity, and physical conditioning through disciplined practice
"I was looking for something Zen, but yoga wasn't dynamic enough for me. I also liked that I would learn self-defence, and build confidence." — Catherine
"Aikido's flowing, dance-like movements are encoded with centuries of martial art wisdom.” — Alex
Why Train With Aikido
Benefits Beyond Self-Defence
While Aikido provides practical self-defence skills, the benefits extend far beyond physical techniques. Our students discover improved mental clarity, reduced stress, enhanced physical fitness, and a supportive community that enriches their daily lives.
Mental Wellness
  • Reduce anxiety through mindful practice
  • Improve focus and concentration
  • Relaxation under pressure
Physical Fitness
  • Build flexibility and balance
  • Improve cardiovascular health
  • Strengthen core muscles
  • Enhance coordination
Life Skills
  • Practical self-defence
  • Develop confidence
  • Increase cooperative skills
  • Foster respect and humility
Welcome to Our Dojo
Your Aikido Journey Begins Here
A Community Built on Respect
At Island Aikido, we've cultivated a warm, supportive environment where students of all backgrounds feel at home from their very first class.
No martial arts experience? No problem. Our instructors specialize in welcoming beginners and guiding them through each step of their aikido journey. From those with no martial art experience, to those with blackbelts in other arts, we welcome you.
World Class Instructors
Some of the highest ranked most respected Aikido instructors in North America.
Join Anytime
Rolling enrollment allows you to start training whenever you're ready.
All Welcome
Moving through the curriculum at your own pace gives you the freedom you need to excel.
A Structured Path to Mastery
From Beginner to Black Belt
Our comprehensive curriculum follows the traditional ranking system, providing clear milestones and goals for every student. Each coloured belt represents not just technical proficiency, but personal growth and deepening understanding of Aikido's principles. Progress at your own pace.
White, Yellow & Orange Belt
Learn fundamental movements, basic falls and introductory techniques. Improve balance and build confidence on the mat.
Green, Blue & Purple Belt
Expand your technical repertoire and refine body mechanics. Further develop flowing movement patterns, awareness and timing. Enhance your leadership skills.
Brown Belt
Master advanced applications and variations. Prepare for your journey to black belt.
Black Belt & Beyond
Achieve first-degree black belt (Shodan) and enter the runway to your true mastery of Aikido and Aikido teaching.
Our Aikido Lineage
Tradition Meets Practicality
Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba's greatest gift to all practitioners is our shared language of flowing movements that harmonize with attacking forces. We welcome visiting Aikidoka of all affiliations and value the exchange of knowledge.
Our lineage traces directly to Gozo Shioda, one of Morihei Ueshiba's most accomplished students and founder of Yoshinkan Aikido. This style is renowned for its precision, practical effectiveness, and strong fundamentals—trusted by Tokyo's police and special forces. Our ranks are registered in Japan and recognized internationally.
Gozo Shioda personally bestowed upon us the name "Shinbukan" (House of True Martial Spirit), a testament to our commitment to authentic, traditional training.
Edo Period (1603-1868)
Jujitsu in Feudal Japan
Sokaku Takeda (1859-1943)
Aiki-Jujitsu, Founder
Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969)
Aikido, Founder
Gozo Shioda (1915-1994)
Aikido Yoshinkan, Founder