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A Capital Region Martial Arts Dojo
Dedicated to Self Improvement and Defense
Through the Practice of Traditional Aikido

Making Sense of Aikido
THE AIKIDO NORTHWAY DOJO BLOG
Purposeful practice demands curiosity and reflection.
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Why I Opened an Aikido Dojo in Clifton Park
Starting something new is always stressful. Starting a dojo—well, that’s a special kind of stress. There have been late nights worrying...

Tim Cooper
Oct 12 min read


What to Expect at our Grand Opening Celebration
Join us on Saturday, September 6, 2025, for the Grand Opening Celebration of Aikido Northway in Clifton Park! Experience Aikido through beginner-friendly classes, exciting demonstrations, visiting instructors, and a community BBQ. The event is free and open to the public—donations to support the dojo are welcome but never expected. Come see what makes Aikido unique and be part of our new community.

Tim Cooper
Aug 272 min read


Jissen Aiki: Folding the Umbrella
One rainy evening in Tokyo, I was standing on a crowded subway car, headed to the dojo for keiko . As the train swayed between stations,...

Tim Cooper
Jul 172 min read


Why the Martial Arts You Took as a Kid Didn’t Stick—And Why Aikido Might
Childhood martial arts and adult martial arts serve different purposes—and they speak to different stages of life.

Tim Cooper
Jun 222 min read


Why Learn Aikido as an Adult?
Starting martial arts in your 30s, 40s, or beyond? Discover why Aikido is the perfect martial art for adult beginners—and how it builds strength, flexibility, balance, and calm for everyday life.

Tim Cooper
Jun 42 min read


Are We Having Fun, Yet?
When I recently told a friend I was opening Aikido Northway, they raised an eyebrow and said, “Running a business is no fun.” They’re...

Tim Cooper
May 212 min read


FAQs
Wondering what to expect? Find answers to some of the most frequent questions here.

Tim Cooper
Feb 94 min read


The Sound of Silence . . . on the Mat
There’s a time and place for everything. That includes talking on the mat. Verbal discussion during practice—especially in the middle of...

Tim Cooper
Dec 2, 20212 min read


Practical Aikido & Self-Defense
Aikido isn’t just for the mat—it’s a method for life. Discover what “Practical Aikido” really means.

Tim Cooper
Feb 19, 20212 min read


Getting Started in Aikido: 5 Tips for Your First Visit to the Dojo
First time on the mat? Read this quick guide to start strong at Aikido Northway.

Tim Cooper
Jan 23, 20213 min read


What's the Best Martial Art for Me?
Wondering where to start? Here’s how Aikido compares—and why it might be right for you.

Tim Cooper
Jan 5, 20212 min read


What is Aikido?
"The Art of Peace." "The Way of Harmony." "The Martial Art of Non-Resistance." Aikido has been called all of these things. And all of...

Tim Cooper
Jan 1, 20212 min read
Getting Started
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