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About Nihon Goshin Aikido

Nihon Goshin Aikido integrates techniques from Aikido, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and Karate. At each belt level, the student will learn a set of ten self-defense techniques consisting of throws, strikes, joint-locks, and grappling. The techniques are 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 realistic "street" types of attacks. In Nihon Goshin Aikido, the 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. To view a complete list of Nihon Goshin Aikido test requirements, click here.


Nihon (Japanese) Goshin (Self-Defense) Aikido was founded by Master Shodo Morita in Hokkaido, Japan. Soke (founder) Shodo Morita was a student of Sokaku Takeda and Yoshida Kotaro in Daito Ryu Aiki Jiu-Jitsu. Additionally, Master Morita trained in other methods of self-defense, such as Aikido, Karate, Judo, Kendo, Bo-Jitsu, Jiu-Jitsu, and Yawara. He combined techniques from each style to form a practical, well-rounded and efficient martial art. He called it Nihon Goshin Aikido.

Nihon Goshin Aikido

Shihan Richard Bowe

Shihan Richard Bowe introduced the art of Nihon Goshin Aikido to the United States. During his military career he was stationed in Hokkaido, Japan where he reviewed a variety of martial art systems and was ultimately accepted as a student of Master Shodo Morita. Upon completing his training with Master Morita, he was awarded the rank of black belt and later returned to the United States. In 1963 he established the first Nihon Goshin Aikido dojo in the United States.

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  • Little Samurai: Ages 5 to 7

    In this class, we teach your child the fundamentals of self-defense and martial arts. They'll gain a positive attitude toward exercise and explore fun, fitness and martial arts activities. It emphasizes tumbling, balance, speed, timing, and footwork drills rather than punches and kicks. Children in this program also have an opportunity to learn life, safety and socialization skills as they interact and have fun with peers. Taught in age appropriate classes, we teach valuable techniques, while maintaining a fun and non-competitive environment. Self-defense, conflict resolution, anti-bullying techniques, stranger awareness and self-confidence are emphasized. Small and personalized classes help students integrate seamlessly into our new learning environment. Students learn to work well with other children, listen and speak with respect. Focus and concentration skills are developed and improved upon. As children learn these important skills, it enhances other areas of their lives. Many of our students demonstrate improvement at school, and less social problems with friends, classmates and family members.

    Youth Aikido: Ages 8 to 12

    In this program, we teach valuable techniques, while maintaining a fun and non-competitive environment. Self-defense, conflict resolution, anti-bullying techniques, stranger awareness and self-confidence are emphasized. Small and personalized classes help students integrate seamlessly into our new learning environment. Students learn to work well with other children, listen and speak with respect. Focus and concentration skills are developed and improved upon. As children learn these important skills, it enhances other areas of their lives. Many of our students demonstrate improvement at school, and less social problems with friends, classmates and family members. Students will be drilled on how to resolve, handle and stop conflict. Additionally, students begin to understand self-control, courtesy and discipline during this stage of training. In addition to the physical techniques, the student's behavior, attitude, listening skills, and focus will be a factor in testing and promotion to the next levels.

    Aikido for Adults: Ages 14 and Up

    Our adult program has been proven to reduce stress, increase fitness, and improve self-confidence. Students will find a complete system of self-defense consisting of throws, joint-locks, nerve pressure points, grappling and strikes. Specialty courses at the academy such as Jiu-Jitsu, The R.E.A.L. Course and The Kubotan (self-defense keychain) are just some of our innovative and creative offerings. Our Adult classes are conducted in a professional, safe and competition-free environment.

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