Aikido of Santa Cruz Youth Programs

Aikido of Santa Cruz Youth Programs offers Kids + Teens Classes. The classes include ages 6-9 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:15-4:15 pm, ages 9-12 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30 pm, and teens on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30-5:30 pm. Classes are offered year round except for the summer break in June and July.

Programs

• Kids + Teens Classes — 6-9, 9-12, 13-18 · Ages 6-9: Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:15-4:15 pm; Ages 9-12: Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm; Teens: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 pm

At a glance

• Ages: 6–18 years old
• General schedule: Classes are offered year around, except for the Summer break in June & July.

About the provider

Aikido of Santa Cruz is a non-profit public-benefit educational organization serving the community since 1982. Its mission statement says Aikido is "The Art of Peace" and describes it as a dynamic martial art practice based on harmony, with the guiding principle of harmony within oneself, with others, and with nature. The youth program instructors are Zachiah Murray Shodan for ages 6-9, Aimen Al-Refai Rokudan for teens, and Maria Borges Shodan for all ages. Aikido of Santa Cruz is also an approved vendor for Ocean Grove School.

Our dojo welcomes sincere students of any race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, nationality, or ethnic origin. Women and men train together in an atmosphere of mutual respect and support. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 831-423-8326 or by email at [email protected] if you have any questions or problems with this process.

What families say

“[Our daughter] has gained invaluable experience in Aikido. It helps her focus her energy, think about peace and kindness, helps her feel more confident and secure. She has made wonderful friends in Aikido. Physically she is stronger and more flexible and more attuned to her environment. Also, I am grateful that she is learning self-defense.” — Aikido parent

“[Our son] has become much more disciplined and has grown as a person all due to his classes.” — Aikido parent

Last updated September 7, 2026.