Traditional Aikido of Colorado Springs

Ikkyo has been described as the ‘First Form’ or ‘First Teaching’.
We may have heard, “Ikkyo issho" – which means ikkyo takes a lifetime to master since there are many underlying principles regarding posture, connection, centerline, and balance involved in practice as we constantly refine.
Ikkyo is the key and the cornerstone to much of aikido. It is the gateway and root into the other ‘forms and teachings’.
It is foundational.

Ikkyo has been described technically as an elbow control movement. Since all parts are connected we can map a kinetic chain through the joints. If we control the elbow, we control the shoulder. The shoulder accesses the scapula which allows control into the back muscles and spine.
We make our way into the center.

These movements occur as we manage our own body as Nage (which is no easy thing), refraining from pushing, pulling, or forcing. We orient, maintaining our posture as we blend and harness without insisting, not allowing - at any point in time - uke to regain his posture.

The study of Ikkyo involves diligently managing the tai sabaki of uke’s body and our own body.
It also can involve the study the Riai.
We can reference the sword as well as the jo in these movements.
Additionally we can study the reference to the ground source, to access a ‘buoyant’ ease and the influence of the breath.
We can also endlessly study how the form stays the same while the shape of the form can change in reference to differing body types and levels of understanding.

So yes, the study of ikkyo seems infinite and lifelong. Refrain from dismissing the simplicity of its appearance. Allow the practice of Ikkyo to stimulate the mind and bring forward a curiousity.
The more we refine, the more inspiring it can be to continue.

G. Breeland, 6th dan

Traditional Aikido of Colorado Springs is hosting Patricia Hendricks Shihan (7th Dan) here in Colorado Springs 6-7 June 2026. Everyone... All ranks... All styles of Aikido... We welcome you to join us for a weekend of community and keiko!

Patricia Hendricks Shihan - 2026 Colorado Springs Seminar 00Days 00Hours 00Minutes 00Seconds Patricia Hendricks Shihan – Colorado Springs, Colorado – June 6-7 2026 Page Updated: April 28, 2026 Traditional Aikido of Colorado Springs is excited to host Patricia […]

We're counting down to hosting Patricia Hendricks Shihan (7th Dan/Aikikai) here in Colorado Springs, Colorado. We're holding the seminar fees at pre-registration prices. The seminar is 5-6 June 2026. Come join us for a weekend of training and community!

Join us May 29th-31st for our annual seminar hosting Mark Larson Shihan.
Register Online:
https://www.aikidobismarck.com/seminars/

The passing of Bernice Tom Sensei represents a deep loss to the Aikido community. Deepest condolences to Tom Sensei's friends and family and to everyone at Sunset Cliffs Aikido.

It is with profound regret that we inform you that Bernice Tom Shihan passed away Saturday morning, May 16, 2026.

Sensei has been an inspiration to us all. We will miss her deeply.

Good morning! Due to our current economic "headwinds", including the cost of travel increasing fairly rapidly, we're holding the cost of attending the Hendricks Shihan seminar (Colorado Springs, Colorado / 6-7 June 2026) to the early registration pricing. $150 for Sat/Sun... $90 for one day... $45 (additional) for Sunday morning Special Keiko class. This is a fantastic training opportunity. We have an amazing venue and we welcome everyone to join us for a weekend of training and community!

🎏🌸 Join us for Kodomo no Hi Matsuri! 🌸🎏

Celebrate Children’s Day with a fun-filled festival for the whole family 💕

✨ Cultural performances
✨ Hands-on activities
✨ Delicious food
✨ Amazing local vendors

🗓 Saturday, May 9
⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 1520 Verde Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80910

🎟 Admission:
FREE for members
$5 per adult (non-members)
$10 family max

🔗 Register at the link https://japanamerica.org/event-6625374/Registration

We can’t wait to celebrate with you 🌸