OUR MISSION:

Aikido descended from the samurai warriors of feudal Japan.  The symbol of the samurai is the katana (sword).  

East County Budokai's mission is derived from the acronym "S.W.O.R.D.":

• Spirit - Spiritual guidance from God.

• Will - To conquer fear and prevail over evil.

• Obedience - Of the law and one's seniors.

• Respect - For other people, places and things.

• Devotion - To our family, country and those weaker than us.

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What does "Budokai" mean?
"BUDOKAI" comes from the Japanese words "Bu" (War), "Do" (Way or Path of) and "Kai" (organization) or "Kan" (House of). Thus, we are the "Organization of the Way of (stopping) War".  

What is the focus of our training?
Paradoxically, the Budokai does NOT stress learning to brawl. We do not cultivate bullies.  The real goal of Budo (Martial Way) training is learning how NOT to fight.  We DO NOT advocate violence.  However, do not confuse "kindness" with "weakness" - as we believe in developing the heart of a warrior through rigorous training (click the link to view prose written by one student).  

All students focus on developing balance, posture and unified body movement through the practice of "kihon" (or basics) as the foundation for all training, regardless of rank or experience.  By doing so, one develops advanced or applied techniques more easily.  Without this firm grounding in basics, one's progress is hindered.

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An important aspect of training is the ability to protect one's self by learning how to "receive" techniques safely. The term for "falling" commonly used in the Japanese throwing arts is "ukemi".  However, this is often misunderstood.  Ukemi actually means "to receive with the body" ("uke" = receive & "mi" = body).  New students focus on ukemi and kihon during the first month of training.  They are simple concepts, yet difficult to master.  If one is looking to learn a few cute "parlor tricks" to impress their friends, we suggest they look elsewhere.  However, if one seeks to grow physically and spiritually through real Budo training, East County Budokai is the answer.

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WHAT WE OFFER:

• QUALITY MARTIAL ARTS training at a REASONABLE price.

• Classes for teens and adults in a safe and clean environment.

• PROMPT classes conducted with the proper "Martial Spirit".
• INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION and an OPEN information exchange.
• TRADITIONAL TRAINING METHODS augmented by MODERN TECHNOLOGY.
• YOGA stretching and ATHLETIC conditioning methods to develop fitness.
• BEGINNERS' classes, written curriculums and VIDEO TAPING
• Registration at Yoshinkan Aikido world headquarters in Japan.

We're located within the Guardian Martial Arts Academy
(in the Spring Valley area of East Suburban San Diego County)

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OUR PROMISE TO YOU 
 30-Day "RISK FREE" MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE:
Try us for 30 days and you will be satisfied that your training was worthwhile.  If not, we will refund your ENTIRE first month's dues - NO QUESTIONS ASKED!

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