Aikido of Louisa

On February 28, the Aikido of Louisa was graced with the presence of Sensei Aviv Goldsmith. Aviv Sensei is a 5th degree blackbelt instructor and holds teaching certification in Aiki-weapons (wooden sword and staff). He has trained as uchi-deshi (senior student in residence) under M. Saito Sensei at the Iwama Dojo in Japan, where Aikido was developed. He is a member of the Takemusu Aikido Association and is affiliated with Hombu Dojo (Aikido Woarld Headquarters) and the Iwama Dojo in Japan. Aviv is the second highest ranked Iwawa-style Sensei on the east coast and has over 23 years of training experience. Aviv Sensei was able to instruct with Louisa's Aikido Jeff Martin, who holds the rank of Nidon (second degree black belt), during the childrens' and adults' classes. Aviv was impressed with the Aikido of Louisa's growth and eagerness to train and learn more about Aikido. Aviv Sensei's teachings helped all participants learn new skills and expressed the importance of training hard at each session. Aikido is an effective yet nonviolent martial art form. It focuses on self-defense without injury, conflict resolution skills, and personal awareness. The Aikido of Louisa is offered through Lousia County Parks and Recreation at the Betty Queen Center every Monday and Wednesday from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. for adults and every Wednesday from 5:30 until 6:15 p.m. for youth. For more information on the Aikido of Louisa program, please contact LCPR at 967-4420.