About Us
What is Aikido?
"Aikido is not a fighting system. It is a way to condition the mind and the body".
It is quite easy to view aikido as a self defense system reliant on various pins and throws. In fact the techniques (waza) of aikido are actually just methods to understand very deep mental and physical principles. Those principles include: mind leads body, relax completely, use gravity, body chain, and focus your intent.
Aikido practitioners train to develop a graceful, fluid, and mobile body while also improving stability, balance, and posture.
There are no competitions in aikido so aikidoka (practitioners) and their practice partners can focus on self improvement, not trophies. As such aikido is ideal for both men and women regardless of age. Aikido can also accommodate all levels of physical fitness.
The Dojo
The dojo is located at Eagles Community Center in Mesa. Registration and class information:
https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/mesaaz/home?onlineSiteId=0&locale=en-US&from_original_cui=true (search AIKIDO)
Feel free to contact us directly if needed.
Class Times
Starting November 3
Friday & Monday 6-7:30pm
Qualified Instructors
Asim Hanif Sensei is the Founder and Chief Instructor of Valley Aikido Arizona. Hanif Sensei is ranked 5th dan and is a student of Clyde Takeguchi Shihan.
Instructor Bio
Asim Hanif began aikido training in 1994. His primary and current teacher is Clyde Takeguchi Shihan.
Prior to aikido he achieved 2nd dan in karate and was ranked by all major kickboxing organizations, holding both ISKA and USKBA lightweight titles. In addition, Hanif Sensei has coached several professional boxers.
