Mt Washington Aikido

Mt Washington Aikido Introduce

Introduction / Overview

For New Hampshire residents in the Mount Washington Valley and beyond, finding a martial arts school that offers a unique and enriching path to physical and mental wellness is a valuable discovery. Mt Washington Aikido, a non-profit organization, stands as a premier destination for the study and practice of Aikido, a modern Japanese martial art often referred to as "The Art of Peace." Unlike combat-focused martial arts, Aikido is centered on using an opponent's energy against them, emphasizing harmony and self-improvement over aggression. The dojo provides a supportive and welcoming environment for individuals to begin their "personal aikido exploration." With a mission to teach and study this art, Mt Washington Aikido welcomes members of all backgrounds, a testament to its inclusive philosophy. The instructors, including Chief Instructor Joe LaRue, are deeply knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, bringing a focus on the quality of learning to every session. This dedication to authentic and meaningful instruction, combined with a commitment to creating a positive and safe space, makes the dojo a special place in the Conway community.

Location and Accessibility

Mt Washington Aikido is conveniently located within the Kwoon Karate Academy facility at 50 White Mountain Hwy, Conway, NH 03818, USA. This shared space provides a professional and dedicated environment for students to train. The location is easily accessible for residents of Conway and the surrounding areas. The dojo is committed to providing an inclusive environment and offers a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which ensures that all members of the community can visit the facility without difficulty. This focus on accessibility, combined with its central location, makes it a practical choice for individuals and families looking to integrate martial arts training into their regular routine.

Services Offered

Mt Washington Aikido provides a focused and high-quality training experience centered on the art of Aikido. The services are designed to cater to adults seeking personal growth and a unique form of physical and mental exercise.

Regular Weekly Classes: The dojo holds consistent weekly classes on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings, offering ample opportunity for students to train regularly and consistently build their skills.
Beginner Membership: A special three-month beginner membership is available, which includes a free gi (uniform). This program is an excellent and affordable way for new students to get started on their Aikido journey with all the necessary gear.
Aikido Instruction for Adults: The primary focus of the dojo is on adult students, welcoming those aged 16 and older. The curriculum is guided by a direct lineage from the founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, ensuring an authentic and deeply rooted training experience.
Seminars and Intensive Instruction: Mt Washington Aikido hosts occasional seminars, bringing in expert instructors for one to two days of intensive, focused instruction. This provides a valuable opportunity for students to deepen their knowledge and skill sets.
Mat Fees for Visitors: The dojo welcomes members of other dojos and martial arts, offering daily mat fees for visiting practitioners. This open-door policy fosters a sense of community and allows for the exchange of knowledge and techniques.

Features / Highlights

Mt Washington Aikido is defined by several key features that set it apart and make it a highly respected institution in the New Hampshire martial arts community:

Dedicated and Knowledgeable Instructors: The dojo is led by experienced instructors like Chief Instructor Joe LaRue, who holds a Nidan (2nd dan) rank and has a background in emergency medicine and education. Instructors like Scott Freudenthal and Kerin Fiore bring an impressive depth of knowledge from decades of experience in various martial arts, ensuring a high-quality learning environment.
Non-Profit Mission: As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, Mt Washington Aikido is dedicated to the instruction, study, and practice of Aikido, with a focus on its philosophical and personal benefits. This mission ensures that the focus is on student growth rather than commercial profit.
Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: The dojo fosters a welcoming atmosphere and accepts members of every race, gender, identity, and ability. This commitment to inclusivity is a core tenet of its philosophy and creates a safe and supportive space for everyone.
Commitment to Personal Exploration: The dojo’s core mission is to help students explore their own potential through the art of Aikido. This unique perspective on training makes it a highly personal and transformative experience for its members.
Affordable and Transparent Pricing: The dojo offers flexible pricing, including a reasonable monthly membership fee, and provides discounts for students under 30, additional family members, teachers, military personnel, and first responders, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.

Contact Information

To learn more or to schedule an observation of a class, you can contact Mt Washington Aikido at the following:

Address: 50 White Mountain Hwy, Conway, NH 03818, USA

Phone: (603) 986-5704

Mobile Phone: +1 603-986-5704

What is worth choosing

For New Hampshire residents in the Conway area, choosing Mt Washington Aikido is an excellent decision for anyone looking for a martial art that is as much about personal growth as it is about physical technique. The dojo's identity as a non-profit organization underscores its dedication to the art and its students, not to commercial interests. This translates to a truly supportive environment where the instructors genuinely care about your progress and well-being. The experienced leadership, including Chief Instructor Joe LaRue, ensures that the training is authentic and of the highest quality. The focus on welcoming every individual, regardless of their background or identity, creates an inclusive community that is rare and special. The financial accessibility, with a variety of discounts and a low-cost beginner membership, makes it an attractive option for those who are just starting out. Furthermore, the practice of Aikido itself provides a unique benefit, teaching a peaceful yet effective means of self-defense while simultaneously building physical strength, mental focus, and inner calm. The opportunity to train in a dojo that is guided by a direct lineage to the founder of the art is a profound experience. In a world of increasing conflict, Mt Washington Aikido offers a sanctuary for "The Art of Peace," making it a truly exceptional and worthwhile choice for anyone in the region seeking a path to a better self.