Martial arts

If you’re interested in following in the footsteps of martial arts masters, Campus Recreation has a variety of martial arts programs at different levels to help you achieve that goal.

Registration starts August 19

Aikido is a non-competitive martial art without weapons; teaching students to use only the strength necessary to control an adversary. A safe and enjoyable teaching atmosphere allows students to develop respect for themselves and others in order to increase self-confidence and to improve stamina, flexibility, and strength. Visit the University of Ottawa Aikido Yoseikan Budo Club at www.budoyoseikan.com

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the fastest growing and most influential martial arts system in the world today! It is based on grappling and ground fighting, focusing on the skill of controlling one's opponent through techniques that forces them to submit. Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is recognized as one of the most potent, real-life fighting systems on the planet. Studies have shown that 95% of street fights end on the ground. The techniques you learn in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, revolve around mastering ground fighting. Most self-defense systems neglect ground fighting completely or offer very limited exposure. Becoming well versed in Brazilian jiu-jitsu will give you the upper hand at all times in a real-life self-defense situation.

Karate practice is divided into three categories: KIHON (basic blocks, punches, kicks and stances) KATA (pre-arranged forms simulating combat situations) KUMITE (sparring). As the student progresses technically, they progress physically and their practice demands greater stamina. At this stage, they become involved with more intricate and difficult kata and more dynamic forms of kumite. Visit Canada Shotokan Karate at https://ottawa.canadashotokan.org/

Learn all the techniques used by professional MMA fighters like Georges St-Pierre, and improve your self-confidence, agility, and coordination. Learn effective self-defense skills and improve your strength and muscular endurance.

Taekwondo teaches self-defense while emphasizing the harmonization of mind, body, and sprit. A long-time friend of the University of Ottawa, Grand Master Tae Eun Lee has been a tireless promoter of the core values of Taekwondo. His emphasis on both the mind and body will help promote success at home and at school. Visit the Tae E. Lee Taekwondo website for more information.

This enhanced Tae E. Lee Taekwondo program emphasizes self-defence techniques, teaching students’ quick reaction and balance manipulation to avert dangerous situations while building strength and self-confidence. Students have the opportunity to test themselves using the protection first suit in full contact situations. Thursday classes will be taught in combination with the beginner Taekwondo course. Visit the Tae E. Lee Taekwondo website for more information.