In this episode of ATA we talk to Oliver Martinez of American Defensive Arts based in Keller, TX. Sensei Martinez shares how a few changes in his approach to teaching led to faster learning and made assessment more clear. We cover the specifics of his process and some of the pros and cons of trying new things as an instructor.

Bio: Fifth degree black belt Oliver Martinez II has over 25 years of martial arts experience. He is passionate about teaching both traditional martial arts as well as modern methods of self-protection. In addition to teaching martial arts, he also currently works in private security where he has received specialized training in defensive tactics and use of force.

https://americandefensivearts.com/

In this episode we dive into the most common objections that keep potential students from ever starting training. We also talk aikido envy, false advertising, trolls, and tools to rebuild our dojos as we transition out of the pandemic.

We wrap up the year with a discussion about the latest Black Belt Magazine post regarding the ever shrinking Aikido population and what (if anything) can be done about it.

We are honored to have Miles Kessler Sensei join our own Malory Graham for a very important discussion regarding the importance of meditation in your aikido practice.  Click here to check out more from Miles and his unique approach to the integration of mediation in your aikido practice.

How many years of training would it take for you to feel like you could actually use Aikido to defend yourself? In this episode our own John Thompson sits down with AU faculty member Tristan Chermack as he discusses his AU course and how he approaches the subject of self-defense effectiveness in your training.

Join us for a brand new segment to the ATA podcast, Meet the Faculty! In this episode our own Malory Graham will interview Aviv Goldsmith and talk to him about some of the great course that he has created for AU. 

We are back and we have much to talk about. In this episode we talk about the new struggles of teaching Aikido in a COVID world and the exciting new platform for online Aikido education....Aikido University!

Skip and Paige Chapman talk about the challenges that dojo will face when the time comes to re-open after the covid-19 restrictions are lifted in your area 

Today Skip sits down with special guest Paige Chapman. Today we will discuss how powerful a plan can be for engaging with students during the coronavirus pandemic and eventually getting students back on the mat. We also talk about the possibilities of even getting new students during these difficult times.