Aikido is a complex martial art practice that cultivates the ability to remain grounded while in motion, maintaining proper body alignment, a calm and attentive mind, and a relaxed yet responsive body. The aim is to move with intention, precision, and efficiency, even when under pressure.
Practice is collaborative rather than competitive. Through connection with a partner, practitioners learn to move and respond from their centre without relying on muscular force.
More than physical exercise, aikido is an ongoing practice of self-cultivation. It develops physical wellbeing, psychological resilience, and the capacity to respond to challenge with composure, adaptability, and clarity, both on the mat and in everyday life.
New students (adults and teens), regardless of background or experience, are welcome to join our dojo year-round. You can observe a class, or participate in a free trial class.
We hold our classes at two locations: St. Philips Gym, 3737 W 27th Ave on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday, and St. Mary's Kerrisdale Gym, 2490 W 37th Ave on Wednesday. Please see the schedule below for more details.
To join our classes, contact us by email or by a contact form found at the bottom of this page!
At the VWA St Philip's dojo (2024)
``The Path is exceedingly vast. From ancient times to the present, even the greatest sages were unable to perceive and comprehend the entire truth; the explanations and teachings of masters and saints only express part of the whole. It is not possible for anyone to speak of such things in their entirety – just head for the light and heat, learn from the gods, and through the virtue of devoted practice become one with the divine. Seek enlightenment along the edge.'' – Morihei Ueshiba
No Thursday classes until September. In July, no classes July 4-10. Also note that our weekday classes for the rest of the summer will be 6-8 pm.
We are offering new students the discounted rate: 2 months for $140 ($80 - U18/post-secondary students/retired/unemployed). We are also offering discounts if you join the dojo with a friend; please inquire for the details.
Our dojo is a member of the BC Aikido Federation and Canadian Aikido Federation, affiliated with Aikikai World Headquarters (Hombu Dojo) in Tokyo, Japan. We are a non-profit society. Our instructors volunteer their time to teach the art they love.
At the CAF seminar with Osawa Hayato Shihan in Kelowna (2024)
At the VWA general meeting in Vancouver (2026)
| date | instructor | title | place |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 4-10, 2026 | Osawa Hayato Shihan | CAF summer camp | Toronto, ON |
| October 16-18, 2026 | Osawa Hayato Shihan | CAF fall seminar | Squamish, BC |
| day | time* | location |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | 18:15–20:00 | Dunbar |
| Wed | 18:15–20:00 | Kerrisdale |
| Sat | 10:15–11:45 | Dunbar |
*NOTE: Please arrive at the dojo at least 15 minutes before the class start time (shown above) to help with setup! On Mondays, there is an open mats practice right after class (ato geiko).
We offer aikido classes for adults and teens only (no children's classes).
Class instructors: Classes at the VWA main dojo (Dunbar and Kerrisdale) are taught by our instructional team consisting of Chief Instructor Ishiyama Sensei, Deputy Chief Instructor Valentine Kabanets Sensei, and the senior blackbelt members. Basics classes (on Thursdays), taught by Phil Kirwin Sensei, are specifically for beginners or anyone who wants to work on Aikido basics.
| program @ VWA | period | amount |
|---|---|---|
| gainfully employed adults (students, unemployed, retired) |
monthly | $100 ($60) |
| 4 months | $360 ($200) | |
| drop in | one class | $20 |
We keep our class fees low because we are a nonprofit society, and we believe that everyone who is sincerely interested in aikido should be able to practice aikido, regardless of their financial situation. Our instuctors volunteer their time to teach the art of aikido to everyone who is sincerely interested in exploring this path.
Special offer: New students get 2 months for $140 ($80 - U18/post-secondary students/retired/unemployed).
Beginners and visitors are welcome. Beginners will be paired up with more experienced dojo members during class. Drop-in visitors will be required to sign a waiver at the dojo before practising. Please observe proper etiquette and adhere to the dojo Code of Conduct .
All dojo members are required to pay Canadian Aikido Federation and BC Aikido Federation annual dues.
Our dojo is open for new members to join. New members must complete and sign a membership form and waiver . This may be done on arrival at the dojo, or you may save time by completing the form online and either printing it or emailing it to us.
Exceptions to these policies will be considered on an individual basis (see Sensei before the class).
