Self Defense Training

Self Defense Training in Grand Rapids

Welcome to The Toyoda Aikido and Kendo Center of Self-Defense training. We offer a complete martial art and self-defense training program for the entire family. Men, women and children from all walks of life attend our academy to learn an authentic martial art that integrates throws, joint-locks, nerve pressure points, grappling and strikes.

Unlike the MMA, or Mixed Martial Arts program, there are no tournaments or competitions in our style of Aikido and self defense training. Instead, Aikido emphasizes street effectiveness and awareness while enhancing one’s physical and mental development. Youth classes, Adult classes, Women’s Assault Prevention, and Personal Security Courses are just a few of our classes offered at the Toyoda Center in West Michigan (Grand Rapids Location).

Aikido integrates techniques from Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and striking arts like Karate and Tae Kwon Do. At each belt level, the student will learn several practical self-defense training techniques consisting of throws, strikes, joint-locks, and grappling. Classical techniques are initially taught from a stationary position, usually a wrist grab. Once the student performs the technique proficiently, they will then be taught numerous applications to the technique from more realistic “street” types of attacks.

At the Toyoda Center, Aikido students are also taught to incorporate strikes into their techniques. In addition to classical techniques, strikes, and applications, defenses against knives, clubs and guns are practiced. Further, to complement our core art, we integrate ground-fighting and sparring into our training regimen.

Taught in age appropriate classes, we teach valuable techniques, while maintaining a non-competitive environment. Self-defense training, conflict resolution, anti-bullying techniques for the youth classes, stranger awareness and self-confidence are emphasized in both the adult and Kids Aikido classes.  Personalized classes help students integrate seamlessly into our new learning environment. In an Aikido class focused on self-defense, students learn to problem solve, open up awareness channels previously closed, and develop lightning fast responses to potential threats. Focus and concentration skills are developed and improved upon.

If you’re looking for self defense training classes in West Michigan, the Toyoda Center (Grand Rapids Location) offers a free 30 day trial of all our class offerings.