Aikido for children and teenagers
Growing without competition.
A practice that develops the body, attention and relationships with others.
Aikido supports a child's physical, mental and relational development. It does not rely on physical strength: circular movements receive and guide a partner's energy.
With no competition, each child progresses at their own pace with the teacher's support. Classes combine technique, games and exercises for concentration, imagination, flexibility and reflexes.
Practice goals
- Learn the technical repertoire of Tokyo Aikikai
- Develop discipline with enjoyment
- Train outdoors and take part in the Aiki garden
- Join seminars and exchanges with other children
- Ages
- 5 to 17 years
- Benfica
- Monday to Friday · 18:30–19:30
- Encarnação
- Tuesdays and Thursdays · 17:30–18:30
- Discounts
- Discounts for family members
Gallery
Practice in motion.
Moments from classes, partner work and life on the tatami.
Frequently asked questions
What people usually ask us.
From what age can children practise Aikido?
Children's and teenagers' classes at Dojo da Luz are for ages 5 to 17 and require no previous experience.
What are the timetables for children's classes?
Children practise in Benfica from Monday to Friday, 18:30 to 19:30, and in Encarnação on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 17:30 to 18:30.
How much is the monthly fee for children?
The monthly fee for children's classes at Dojo da Luz is €25 for one class a week and €35 for two classes a week.
Do children compete in the classes?
Children's classes at Dojo da Luz have no competition: each child progresses at their own pace, combining Aikikai technique, games and concentration exercises.
What is needed for a trial lesson?
To take part in a trial lesson, all you need is comfortable training clothing and a pair of flip-flops.
My child has never practised a martial art. Can they start?
Yes. No previous experience is required to begin practising Aikido. Classes are adapted to each child's age and level, allowing for safe and progressive learning.
Is Aikido suitable for shy children?
It can be a very rewarding activity for more reserved or shy children, as learning takes place in a structured environment and through interaction with different training partners.
What about children with lots of energy?
Aikido is a dynamic physical activity involving movement, techniques, falls, rolls and coordination exercises. One of the distinctive aspects of the practice is that it teaches children how to use their energy in a conscious and controlled way.
Why choose Aikido for a child?
Because Aikido offers something unique: it is at the same time a physical activity, a Japanese martial art and a practice based on cooperation with others. In Aikido, your partner is not an opponent you must defeat. They are the person you need in order to learn.
Try a class
Book a trial class to meet the teacher and discover the space and practice.