Main Dojo Classes
Below you will find information about all the classes we offer. It's important to mention though, many supplemental programs enhance BigRock Aikikai's classes. We host training camps for all ages bringing together aikido students from across the city. Our 1000 Hour Club celebrates the dedication of students by bringing them together for a special event each year - previous events include an afternoon at the movies, laser tag and paint ball. Each year the students participating in BigRock Aikikai`s Instructor Training Program gather for a special Olympics event - this fun-filled camp tests the skills of students in numerous events that relate to teaching an aikido class. Our Character Development Program encourages students to contribute positively in their Dojo, Home, School and Community. All BigRock Aikikai instructors are volunteers - no one is paid to teach. Instructors give their time and effort out of a passion for aikido and a desire to share their knowledge with those interested in learning. For the safety of our students, all instructors go through a Calgary Police Service background security check. Ultimately, BigRock Aikikai is about building a family of aikido students who respect and appreciate the community in which they live by giving back. Please contact sensei with questions.
- Preschool (3-5yrs)
- Child (6-8yrs)
- Youth (9-11yrs)
- Junior Teen (12-14yrs)
- Senior Teen (15-17yrs)
- Young Adults (15-29yrs)
- Adult (18yrs+)
- Parent (18yrs+)
- Open Mat
Preschool (3-5yrs) - Playful & Regulated
At BigRock Aikikai, our preschool program is a vibrant "Circle of Safety" where children aged 3–5 begin their journey from curious toddlers to focused students. We understand that at this age, the world is discovered through movement; therefore, our classes are intentionally Playful. By imitating animal movements and engaging in dynamic drills, children refine their motor skills, balance, and coordination in an environment that feels like a game but builds the physical "specs" required for future athletic success.
Beyond the physical, we introduce the essential skill of being Regulated. Through simple rituals like bowing and waiting for instructions, your child learns to channel their boundless energy into positive self-discipline. This structured routine helps manage impulses and builds the attention span necessary for a smooth transition into a school setting.
Unlike competitive team sports, our focus is on Individual Growth. Our progressive belt system provides tangible rewards that foster a "can-do" attitude, allowing even the shyest child to build self-esteem at their own pace. By learning to work with partners and regulate their emotions through breath and movement, our youngest students develop the empathy and situational awareness needed to navigate social interactions peacefully. Ultimately, we aren't just teaching martial arts; we are providing the "Indigo" seeds of respect and confidence that will flourish for a lifetime.
Child (6-8yrs) - Centered & Resilient
At BigRock Aikikai, our 6–8-year-old program is designed to transform the natural energy of childhood into the pillars of Centered focus and Resilient character. In an increasingly digital world, we provide a structured sanctuary where children exchange screen time for body awareness and mental clarity.
Our curriculum moves beyond simple physical exercise. By practicing the "soft flowing nature" of Aikido, students develop the Enhanced Discipline and Total-Body Coordination necessary to navigate elementary school with confidence. We emphasize Selfless Stewardship, teaching older children to mentor their peers, fostering empathy and leadership skills that translate directly to better behavior at home and improved performance in the classroom.
We believe true confidence comes from a Growth Mindset. Through our progressive belt system, children learn that mistakes are merely stepping stones to mastery. This internal strength empowers them to handle conflict with Assertive Communication rather than violence, providing a powerful shield against bullying.
Ultimately, we are not just teaching martial arts; we are refining the "Indigo" depth of each student. We invite your child to find their center, embrace challenges with courage, and build a foundation of respect and integrity that will serve them for a lifetime.
Youth (9-11yrs) - Composed & Empowered
At BigRock Aikikai, our Youth program (ages 9–11) is designed to cultivate Composed and Empowered individuals ready to navigate the transition toward adolescence. In an age of constant digital distraction and rising social pressure, we provide a structured environment where students sharpen their mental focus through the memorization of complex forms and techniques. By integrating mindfulness with physical exertion, we give pre-teens the tools to manage stress and anxiety, replacing reactive impulses with a calm, focused composure.
We believe that true confidence is built from the inside out. Our program fosters a Growth Mindset, teaching students that perseverance through challenges is the key to personal mastery. This sense of Personal Agency is vital as children seek independence; earning rank through their own hard work provides a sense of accomplishment that is entirely their own.
Beyond the mat, our dynamic full-body conditioning improves the agility and coordination essential for any athletic pursuit. We promote a holistic lifestyle, emphasizing the value of nutrition and rest to support a developing body. Ultimately, we empower your child to stand tall against bullying, excel in the classroom, and approach the complexities of middle school with a steadfast, resilient spirit.
Junior Teen (12-14yrs) - Integrity & Independence
At BigRock Aikikai, our Junior Teen program provides a vital "Circle of Safety" during the complex shift from childhood to adolescence. As teens navigate a changing social landscape, we help them remain Steadfast. Through the fusion of physical exertion, controlled breathing, and mindfulness, students develop the mental fortitude to manage stress and anxiety. This discipline sharpens their ability to resist distractions and manage their time, providing a competitive edge in academics and a reliable "North Star" for their emotional well-being.
As they seek greater independence, we empower them to be Autonomous. Unlike team sports where individual contributions can be overshadowed, Aikido focuses on personal agency. The belt system proves that success is a direct result of their own perseverance, building a deep-seated confidence that isn't dependent on peer approval. This self-assurance is their best defense; they learn practical self-defense and situational awareness, but more importantly, they gain the composure to de-escalate conflict and project a strength that discourages bullying before it begins.
Beyond the techniques, our dojo offers a positive social anchor. Instructors serve as mentors, reinforcing values of integrity and humility, while the community provides a supportive network of peers focused on mutual growth. We aren't just teaching martial arts; we are providing a framework of respect and character that allows your teen to navigate the world with a strong moral compass and a resilient heart.
Senior Teen (15-17yrs) - Mastery & Mentorship
At BigRock Aikikai, our Senior Teen program serves as a high-performance bridge between adolescence and adulthood. As students face the immense pressures of university applications and final exams, we help them remain Disciplined. Our classes offer a dynamic, full-body alternative to the sedentary nature of modern study habits, utilizing intense physical exertion and controlled breathing to release stress and sharpen mental fortitude. This "Black Belt mindset" instills a work ethic and long-term goal-setting capability that sets our graduates apart in the eyes of university admissions officers and future employers.
We also empower our seniors to be Influential. At an age where peer pressure is at its peak, the dojo provides a sophisticated "Circle of Safety" and a community of positive role models. Here, senior teens transition from students to leaders. By assisting with younger classes and mentoring junior members, they develop public speaking skills, responsibility, and the "Selfless Stewardship" that defines our school. They gain the practical self-defense skills and situational awareness to navigate an independent life safely, coupled with the character to lead others with integrity. We aren't just preparing your teen for the mat; we are forging resilient, capable young adults ready to lead in university, their careers, and beyond.
Young Adults (18-25yrs) - Self-Mastery and Integrated Connection
Our program offers a sophisticated, full-body fitness outlet that far surpasses the monotony of a traditional gym. By engaging in the dynamic "flow" of Aikido, you develop high-level coordination and functional strength while utilizing the mat as a space for active meditation. This physical release is essential for managing the stressors of new careers, academic deadlines, and social expectations, allowing you to find a Centered composure in a world of high-pressure demands.
More than just a workout, this is a journey of self-discovery. Through our rank system, you gain a tangible sense of Self-Efficacy, proving that persistence and a growth mindset lead to real-world mastery. You will learn the humility of the "Indigo" process—where being thrown is not a failure, but a necessary step toward rising stronger. Within our "Circle of Safety," you will find a built-in community of like-minded peers and professional mentors who provide the support network essential for those living on their own for the first time. Step onto the mat to transform your stress into strength, find your tribe, and build the resilient character required to own your future.
Adult (18yrs+) - Together we Grow
BigRock Aikikai's adult class is open to anyone who is interested in being a member of a close-knit group that enjoys vigorous aikido training and the occasional social event. We share a common goal - to enjoy the practice of aikido as part of a dojo that is dedicated to improving the community within which it lives. When it comes to the practice of aikido, aggressive, competitive attitudes are discouraged. Osensei, aikido's founder, described aikido as way to unite people - not a way of fighting with others. We aim to uphold the principles of aikido as laid out by the founder. Training is always conducted in a spirited but safe manner. All are welcome … You will decide the pace that is right for you (although, Sensei will always be behind you pushing you to expect more from yourself). Our members are encouraged to give back to their community through volunteering at organizations like the Calgary Inter-faith Food Bank, Inn from the Cold and the Salvation Army's Christmas Hamper Program. As a member dojo of the Canadian Aikido Federation, we utilize the grading requirements laid out by this national organization. All kyu ranks are registered and awarded by this national body. Black belt ranks are processed by the CAF while being registered and awarded by the Aikikai Foundation (World Headquarters) in Japan.
Parent (18yrs+) - Honoring our Kids
The parent class is not currently running ... Please contact sensei Steve Erickson with regards to parent class questions.
The parent class is a special class for those parents who want an insider`s perspective on our young people`s program. The class structure has elements of both the adult class and the young-people`s classes while the technical requirements are the same as for the Child, Youth and Junior Teen classes. These classes are led by a senior member of the BigRock Aikikai Instructor Training Program. Students set regular goals by the use of a colored belt ranking system. The BigRock Aikikai system utilizes the following belts: yellow, orange, red, green, blue, purple, brown, advanced brown, junior black, intermediate black, advanced black. Each colored belt rank comes with an increasingly challenging set of requirements and an increased number of required classes.
Open Mat
This is an unstructured training session where the training space is simply open for students to use as they see fit. The key elements are:
- Self-Directed Training: The most important element. There is no instructor-led agenda, warm-up, or lesson plan. You decide how to spend your time. For students reviewing for belt tests, this is the perfect opportunity to focus on just what is needed for your next test. Sensei can assist students with prioritizing, if needed.
- Drills & Core Skill Development: Students can use the time to drill specific skills repeatedly to build muscle memory. Core skills are those present across multiple techniques - drilling a core skill component can elevate the quality of many techniques.
- Experimentation and Troubleshooting: It's the ideal time to try out techniques learned in class, test new moves, work on weaknesses, or ask higher belts for specific advice. It's your Aikido "laboratory."
- Self-Paced - You can train intensely, lightly, or sit out for portions of class to rest and observe.
- Guidance - Sensei is always present and available as a resource to assist students.
- Training Partners - Students must arrange for their own training partner. If assistance is needed in connecting with a training partner from your home class, please contact BigRock Administrator
- Age Range - the independent nature of this class is geared toward older students - 12yrs and up. Special permission may be granted for younger students, please contact sensei.