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When: Temporarily closed until we move to our new space

Where: 75 Frost Street, Brooklyn NY11211 (map)

Description:

$16. Open level, 60 minutes.

Aikido is a practical and traditional Japanese martial art of self-defense. It is also a comprehensive path to wellness. Aikido at City Life Wellness combines the practical with the spiritual aspects of a true “budo” (martial way) to help participants change, strengthen and deepen their relationships with themselves and others. As a practical martial art, aikido teaches how to control aggression without inflicting injury. Practitioners learn to evade the direct, blunt force of an assault, take balance, and redirect an attacker’s energy. Aikido does not rely on physical strength; it relies on principles of movement, which makes it an art that is accessible to men, women, and children of all ages. Aikido at City Life Wellness is designed and structured for everybody with an interest in self-defense, self-improvement, and wellness. No previous martial arts or athletic training is required to participate in Aikido at City Life Wellness. The only requirements are an open mind, a willingness to try, and an openness to relearning how we use our bodies. Classes begin with stretching and warm-up exercises that improve balance, coordination, and body awareness. This is followed by rolling and falling practice. Aikido techniques are mostly different types of throws, which means a lot of falling down and getting up and a powerful cardio workout. Warm-ups are followed by technique practice with a partner. During this part of class, participants learn the roles of attacker and defender and through the exchange develop a unique awareness, sensitivity, empathy, and connection to others. The greater and more focused the sincerity of an exchange between partners, the more deeply rewarding is the exchange. And it is through this connection—ostensibly martial in nature—that aikido becomes a path to wellness and personal growth. Through the practice of the techniques and martial strategies of the art, participants develop strategies for conflict resolution, honesty with themselves and others, and more meaningful and rewarding relationships inside and outside the class.

When: Temporarily closed until we move to our new space

Where: 75 Frost Street, Brooklyn 11211 (map)

Description:

Suggested donation $14. Open level, 60 minutes.

Eskrima (also known as Arnis, and Kali) is the umbrella term for the traditional martial arts of the Philippines. Mostly recognized by it's use of weapon-based fighting with sticks; Eskrima is a complete system which includes empty-hand techniques (Panantukan or Mano Mano) kicking, punching, locking, throwing and grappling.

Before the 1960's, when it was brought to the U.S. by Masters such as Angel Cabales, Eskrima was barely known in America. In recent years, there has been increased interest in the style for its usefulness as a self defense system and its frequent use in film.

Today Eskrima is taught to the Filipino military as well as American groups like Navy Seals, Army Special Forces and the Russian Special Forces. In contrast to most other well-known Asian martial arts Eskrima students start their instruction by learning to fight with weapons, in conjunction with empty-hand training.

The weapon is simply seen as an extension of the body, and the same angles and footwork are used either with or without a weapon. Another benefit of this style is the use of two weapons (traditionally a pair of sticks or a stick and a wooden knife). This emphasizes keeping both hands full and never moving them in the same direction. This trains practitioners to become ambidextrous, develop muscle memory and conditioning.