Aikido is practiced by men, women, and children all over the world.
Since Aikido focuses on balance and perception rather than physical size or strength, it can be very effective for people who might otherwise not excel at fighting arts. It also opens the possibility of lifelong practice with never-ending improvement. The founder of Stanford Aikido Club, Frank Doran, is still teaching well into his eighties.
Aikido practitioners are part of a strong, diverse worldwide culture. As a result, there are many opportunities to be exposed to a broad range of teachers and approaches to training.
