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An effective self-defense does not have to be violent and destructive. The dynamics of Aikido gives us the option of a hard or soft response to aggression, and the calmness of mind to choose appropriately.

Techniques involve blending with the energy of an attack, drawing the attacker out of their area of strength, and redirecting the energy of the attack to a favorable outcome.

Principles of harmony, blending with adversity, and leading a conflict to a positive resolution makes Aikido applicable to physical conflict as well as daily life.

A horse symbolizes forward momentum, overcoming obstacles, and strength. As with any martial art, strength is one thing we aim to cultivate through rigorous training, however, having strength is not a reason to use it. It is written in The Analects of Confucius (XIV.33) “A good horse is praised for its spirit, not its strength.” The spirit we cultivate is one of morality, benevolence, empathy, sincerity; the spirit of budo. As we live this spirit, we hope to inspire others to also do so, and, with enough momentum, we can realize peace on Earth.

Aikido Silicon Valley

4.9

Based on 24 Reviews

Anne R.

2025-10-26 11:40:19

As a totally new Aikido learner, I found this dojo amazingly welcoming. The master teachers are amazing, and the senior students are supportive in serving... read more

Edward Chew C.

2024-11-20 00:14:33

my son has been at this dojo for 2.5 years. great place for kids to learn discipline, patience when teaching new comers and persistence to gain new... read more

Rachelle B.

2024-11-04 13:10:10

I was looking for a great way to build self defense skills as well as get more balance in my life. I checked them out and they have been the most welcoming... read more

Oliver B.

2024-05-13 14:36:41

Both my children and I have been training at the dojo for over a year now. The instructors are incredibly patient with the kids, taking the time to explain... read more

Brian J.

2022-06-01 12:11:38

I cannot say enough great things about Aikido Silicon Valley. When I started out they turned my perception of what Aikido is upside down. I appreciated the... read more

Kristin S.

2022-03-07 08:58:33

I cannot recommend Aikido Silicon Valley enough. Becoming a member of this dojo has changed my life in unexpected ways. As a moderately uncoordinated and... read more

Ems H.

2021-07-03 22:32:13

Great place to do aikido. Very welcoming and very knowledgeable instructors. read more

Chatree C.

2020-08-18 12:11:41

I trained with Aikido Silicon Valley for about 5 years before life got in a way.. still hope to get back one day. Our dojo had profound impact on my life... read more

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Congratulations to Witt Shihan on his promotion to 8th degree black belt, the highest rank that is awarded by the Aikikai Foundation. Witt Shihan began training in 1967 in Tokyo and has become an influential member of the Aikido community. At the time of his promotion, there have only been about 100 people in the world who have ever been promoted to this rank.

Witt Shihan teaches two classes a week at Aikido Silicon Valley. The students of Aikido Silicon Valley are very proud to call Witt Shihan our Sensei.

Aikido Silicon Valley

Martial Art, Self-Defense, Budo

Located in Sunnyvale, CA since 1998

The Year of the Horse, 2026

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Bill Witt Shihan 8th Dan Promotion