Most of us turn to martial arts to learn an effective self-defense technique. However, one of the lesser-known benefits of practicing martial arts is improved self esteem. Like any other physical activity, martial arts have a strong impact on our mental and spiritual health. Does Martial Arts and self esteem impact each other? We think… Read More >

Once practitioners have begun to master the basic moves in aikido, they often ask about weapons training. In this month’s blog, we give you the run-down on the types of weapons we use here at Shin-Gane, and why we believe training with weapons is useful. Why Train with Weapons? Some ask why we even bother… Read More >

It’s no secret that, at Shin-Gane, we’re dedicated to the art of aikido. As we’ve discussed aikido with others and looked at information and training tips online, we’ve noticed something a little disturbing. There seems to be a never-ending stream of MMA fans ready and willing to diss our practice. While we know that each… Read More >

A wrist lock is an essential tool in your self-defense toolbox. Anyone can do these moves, because they don’t rely so much on strength as on the limits of the human body. By grabbing your opponent’s hand and twisting it, you can disable him enough to get yourself out of a bad situation.  We’ll tell… Read More >

In other martial arts, earning a black belt is an important milestone. It means you’ve mastered an extraordinarily difficult practice. It means you can train others. It means you can proclaim your mastery to the rest of the world! The meaning of a black belt in aikido is, predictably, a little different. In one sense,… Read More >

Sensei Mike Swederska has been practicing aikido for twenty years. He’s seen other practitioners come and go, and he’s taken occasional breaks from the mat himself. But he’s always come back. Why? Because for Sensei Mike, aikido isn’t just an exercise; it’s a lifestyle. We know it’s easy to get caught up in those day-to-day… Read More >

No doubt you’ve heard the statistics. According to recent figures, One out of six American women has been the victim of a rape or attempted attack in her lifetime. No one thinks of herself as a potential victim. Many women simply want to feel more confident in a world that, it seems, consistently tries to… Read More >

The emotional lives of teens are more complex than we know. Feelings of restlessness and anger often overwhelm kids in these pivotal years. High school students generally have trouble thinking before they act – their brains are more impulsive than those of adults – and if they suffer from ADHD or learning disabilities, this can… Read More >

Out in the world, there isn’t much we can do to combat rudeness, the little moments of disrespect that we often encounter. Others seem to have a skewed idea of exactly what it means to be respectful, nevermind disciplined or compassionate! Maybe that’s why the moments in the dojo are so precious to dedicated martial… Read More >

Do you seek quick-and-easy gratification or long-term growth?   People searching for inner peace – or just a break from their hectic schedules – may reach for many different solutions. Unfortunately, not all of them are healthy! Instead of giving in to the temptation of a chocolate shake or cold beer at the end of… Read More >