Aikido in Berkeley since 1989
Visitor Policy: Visitors are always welcome to observe. However, because of safety concerns due to COVID-19, we may not be able to allow drop-in observers. Please call in advance.
We hope to continue to welcome those who have active affiliation with Hombu Dojo to train as visitors. However, this policy is still under review, so please call or email for information.
Anyone is welcome to become a member. Call or send email for information.
Waiting for city clearance to open
On September 22, Alameda county was placed on a less restrictive level in the state COVID-19 tier system. On this tier, we hope to be able to begin some restricted activities at the Dojo (in addition to ongoing kids classes).
However, Alameda county and the city of Berkeley have both announced they will not immediately add new categories of business to the “allowed” list, but will monitor for a couple weeks more before making changes. This means we will not be able to start classes for at least those two weeks, and will have to await further guidance from the city.
We will post updates here as we learn of any changes.
The procedures we have been using with Kids Class have taken some adjusting, but are fairly easy to follow with some planning for time. They will also be the framework for all of us in the Dojo going forward. For reminder, those preliminary guidelines for when we restart classes are posted below. We will be adding a page to the web-site with more complete guidelines: please watch for an added link above.
First: anyone entering the Dojo (member or visitor) will be asked screening questions. We will ask for temperature checks. We plan to screen everyone before they come in the door, so please be prepared and patient. Someone will be posted at the outer door before class. Kids will be screened in the car, so parents do not have to come into the Dojo. Adults will need to keep distance at the door.
If possible, take your temperature before coming. If you have a temperature, or any other symptoms, of course stay home. We do have a touchless thermometer for screening, if you have not been able to screen at home.
Everyone: wash hands when you arrive, and after class.
Masks should be worn while in the Dojo. Gloves will be allowed if you wish. Keep distance from others at all times (this is basic maai).
We do not line up for class, but space ourselves out across the mats.
We will be practicing with distance. Classes will involve body conditioning, movement practice, and ukemi practice. For adults, when we can start that training, we will also focus on activities than allow for distancing: weapons, Zazen, and Iaido. We will try to make it possible for people to use their hands as little as possible. For example, when the Dojo opens for the day, we will keep the doors open so members do not have to use their hands to open them.
As the dressing rooms have limited space, it will be OK to wear your gi to and from the Dojo. Please wear a jacket or sweatshirt over it when outside the Dojo. For those changing at the Dojo, there should be only 3 people maximum in a dressing room at any time.
If you can transport your weapons to and from class, that will be best.
Please do not talk unless you are wearing a mask.
Some additional specific changes related to using the Dojo space will posted in the Dojo.
There will initially be changes to the schedule:
Noon classes Monday, Wednesday 12:00 Noon-1:00 PM
Morning classes Tuesday, Thursday 6:30-7:30 AM
Evening classes Monday through Friday 6:00-7:00 PM
Saturday morning 10:15-11:15 AM
Kids classes remain the same as before the shelter:
Tuesday 4:15-5:15 PM Saturday 9:00-10:00 AM
While the Dojo is closed, we can be reached at the email address on this page, and by regular surface mail.
We are trying to maintain email contact with members as we plan. If you are a member and have not been receiving emails, please send us an email address so we can keep you informed directly.
UnEnKai Summer Seminar
Given the current situation, UnEnKai Summer Seminar, scheduled for June, did not take place. We look forward to next year’s practice.