FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General Questions
What is Multnomah Aikikai?
Multnomah Aikikai is a dojo in Portland, Oregon that offers traditional Japanese martial arts training in Aikido and Iaido. Our mission is to provide a method of personal development for people of all ages through practical, sincere practice in a supportive, inclusive community.
Who can train at Multnomah Aikikai?
People of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. In our aikido program we welcome adults, teens (13–17), and children (ages 7–12). Our Iaido program is geared to adults. We strive to create an inclusive environment regardless of race, age, gender or sexual identity, or previous experience.
What kinds of benefits do students get from training here?
Training helps develop physical strength & stamina, physical awareness, balance, coordination, flexibility, and posture. It also supports mental well-being: stress relief, focus, calm under pressure, better adaptability, and a sense of community and mutual support. View student testimonials.
FOR ADULTS INTERESTED IN AIKIDO
How do I get started with adult Aikido classes?
There are a few ways to begin:
Free Dojo Visit: Observe a class to get a feel for the space and atmosphere.
1:1 Intro During Class time: A one-on-one guided session during a regular Monday class ($37), pairing you with a black belt to walk you through your first class.
Regular membership: You can sign up as a Regular Member and begin attending classes. We recommend beginners attend at least two of the three core classes weekly (Monday 6pm, Wednesday 6pm, Saturday 10:30 am).
View details on our Get Started page.
What should I wear or bring to class?
For your first visit: wear clothes you can move in that cover your knees and shoulders (e.g., workout pants + T-shirt), no belts or jewelry, and be prepared to practice barefoot on the mat. If you plan to join, you’ll eventually wear appropriate training attire (gi, etc.).
Do I need prior martial arts experience?
No. Aikido at Multnomah Aikikai welcomes beginners. Many students start with no prior experience.
What kind of commitment does Aikido require?
While your training schedule is up to you, we recommend that you train consistently at least twice a week to see progress. We also suggest that beginners commit to training for at least 3 months to get over the beginner learning curve. Aikido tends to favor committed, consistent students who are prepared to take it seriously.
What if I’m older, injured, or out of shape? Is Aikido still for me?
Yes! Aikido at Multnomah Aikikai is a great workout that is adaptable to different ages, body types, and fitness levels. Because the practice emphasizes awareness, coordination, and mindful movement rather than relying on strength, it remains accessible regardless of age or fitness. Although Aikido movements include joint manipulation, throwing, striking, and tumbling, modifications can always be made.
QUESTIONS ABOUT CHILDREN’S AIKIDO
What ages are accepted in the children’s program?
The children’s Aikido program is designed for kids aged roughly 7–12. Teens 13 or older are welcome to join the adults classes or stick with the children’s program until they feel comfortable.
Do kids need prior experience or athletic ability?
No prior experience is needed. The classes are structured to be beginner-friendly and low pressure, making it easy for kids to follow and enjoy.
What are the benefits for children?
Kids learn physical awareness, coordination, confidence, focus, discipline, and mutual respect. They also become part of a community and experience martial arts in a supportive, non-competitive environment.
Will my child be safe? Especially with falls, rolling, etc.?
Safety and mindful movement are key aspects of practice. Students learn how to fall safely, move fluidly, and train gradually. The dojo emphasizes respectful, cooperative training rather than competition or aggression.
For Adults interested in Iaido (sword handling)
What is Iaido?
Iaido is the Japanese art of sword drawing, focusing on smooth, controlled, deliberate movements: drawing the sword, executing a cut, and re-sheathing. It emphasizes posture, timing, focus, and mindfulness rather than combat or sparring.
How can I start Iaido at Multnomah Aikikai?
Because Iaido training involves concentrated attention and safety considerations, the program at Multnomah Aikikai is limited to a small number of students. Prospective Iaido students must fill out an application and book a dojo visit to observe a class first. Once accepted to the program, we offer affordable options to begin practice. Learn more about starting Iaido.
Do I need prior martial arts experience before starting Iaido?
While prior experience may help, it is not required. However, Iaido demands discipline, patience, and regular practice to develop skill in the precise movements and mindset it requires.
What kind of commitment does Iaido require?
To make progress in Iaido practice we recommend attending two nights per week. There is an option to practice once per week. Financially, we do not require new students to invest in a lot of equipment up front. We encourage students to begin simply and invest in equipment gradually as their natural commitment grows. Internally, iaido students confront the challenge of attending to many details of movement and performing the movements clumsily. With commitment and self-discipline the benefits of practice are realized over time.
ETIQUETTE & DOJO CULTURE
Why do we bow when entering and to each other when training?
Bowing comes from ancient Shinto tradition, but at Multnomah Aikikai it is mainly an expression of respect—for the space, for partners, instructors, and the art itself.
Why do we clean the dojo after class?
Cleaning the dojo is part of our practice. The principles practiced in class are extended and applied to everyday life. Caring for the dojo after class creates a bridge from what we learned in class to our everyday activities. Dojo care activities such as cleaning serves as a ritual that helps cultivate respect, mindfulness, and community.
What mindset fits best with Aikido or Iaido training?
A willingness to be patient, open to learning, and to set ego aside (though we realize these things are not always easy)! Progress comes over time with hard work and consistency. The process is as important as the outcome.
Enrollment, Fees, Visit & Next Steps
Can I observe a class first without obligation?
Absolutely! You can schedule a free dojo visit to observe any of our class types — adult Aikido, children’s Aikido, or Iaido — at no cost or obligation. For adult Aikido, observing is available on Wednesday evenings or Saturday mornings. For children’s Aikido, observing is available on Monday or Wednesdays. For Iaido, observation sessions are scheduled on Monday or Friday (depending on availability).
What should I expect when observing a class?
You’ll meet the instructor, observe warm-ups, see how students practice in class, and get a sense of the dojo atmosphere. After observing class you may ask questions and chat with instructors and students.
How do I schedule a visit?
Go to our Contact/Observe a class page, fill out the form for a free dojo visit. Alternatively, email us at dojo@multnomahaikikai.com if you have questions or want help scheduling.
What are the membership options and costs?
We are transparent about our rates.
Membership categories, fees, and policies are outlined on the Enroll page.
Options to get started with aikido practice are outlined on the Get started page.