Hayward Aikido

I hate lifting weights and going to gyms — even though I have a free membership through work, I never go. Something about that environment which I do not find fun. Then I thought about martial arts… It’s something I’ve always wanted to try. This is my first martial arts training ever, and I’ve taken the plunge. I’m training in both Aikido and Iaido, from Sandoval Sensei.
Last year, I had a 6 week sabbatical, during which I was determined to get into an exercise regiment. When I first started training, learning how to fall was a daunting task. I know that sounds weird, let me explain. In Aikido, we generally train in pairs — with one person being the attacker. During a technique, the attacker needs to be able to take the technique without being injured. Likewise, the person being attacked needs sensitivity to know their partner’s limits.
What keeps bringing me back is Sandoval Sensei and the people who train here. The people who train at this dojo are all genuinely nice people. The students here come from a broad spectrum of backgrounds, yet the we all get along on and off the mat.
Prices are extremely low for the quality and quantity of training that is offered. I’m so lucky I decided to train here!
They also offer kids classes, and the instructors are very good with kids.

I am a student here of the filipino martial arts. I have met the other instructors and all are very good at what the teach. There are 5 different styles of martial arts being taught here (Aikido, Brazliain Jujitsu, Capoeira, Kenpo, Kombatan/​Arnis/​Eskrima) so you have a variety of arts to choose from. There are also kids classes, Teen’s Only, and Women’s only classes available at very affordable prices.