The People of Aikido Kenkyukai: Karin

“The main reason I continue to train is because it brings me joy. The physical aspect is incredibly fun, and the joy I feel from that combines with the human connection in a beautiful way. I felt instantly welcomed in this dojo and it's so inspiring to be around such kind, positive people. I am motivated not only by the joy I feel training, but by the fact that there is so much to learn and discover about aikido. I have also noticed that I am becoming more fit and improving my endurance and energy, and that a knee I used to have pain/weakness in no longer bothers me.”

• Karin, 36
• Paralegal
• AKI Los Angeles

Having no idea what to expect, Karin was both nervous and excited before going to her first class at the dojo. But upon entering the dojo, her nervousness immediately disappeared, thanks to the welcoming atmosphere.

"As soon as I got there most of the nervousness disappeared right away, because everyone was very welcoming and patient with me, and I could tell they were all having a great time and truly loved training. Their joy and excitement rubbed off on me and I had a lot of fun during my first class."

After her first visit, she booked her next class right away and, well, the rest is history. She soon became an ongoing member and never misses class now.

Asked what she loves most about Aikido, she answered, "I love that there is always something new to learn, or some new way to make something more effective, and not only because I am a beginner. Hearing more experienced people saying that they just learned something, or figured out something new, is really inspiring. It means that training will never get boring, and that you can be constantly improving with no limit."

When asked why she continues to train, she said, "The main reason I continue to train is because it brings me joy. The physical aspect is incredibly fun, and the joy I feel from that combines with the human connection in a beautiful way. I felt instantly welcomed in this dojo and it's so inspiring to be around such kind, positive people. I am motivated not only by the joy I feel training, but by the fact that there is so much to learn and discover about aikido. I have also noticed that I am becoming more fit and improving my endurance and energy, and that a knee I used to have pain/weakness in no longer bothers me."

Karin never misses the special once-a-month hybrid classes at the dojo, with visitors joining virtually from around the globe. She said, "It is really fun to virtually work with a partner from somewhere else in the world. The connection is wonderful!"

When Karin isn’t training, she likes reading, writing, cooking, hiking, going for walks and exploring the city, going to museums and galleries, and spending time with friends.

In summary, Karin adds, "I am so grateful that I decided to try aikido, and this dojo specifically. It's done nothing but improve my life physically, mentally, and emotionally. The sensei and fellow students are wonderful people."

Those who wish to train with Karin will find her at the Los Angeles dojo.