Aikido Woburn (Boston, Chelmsford: schools, association, suburbs)

[Woburn Aikikai]

I've recently opened up an Aikido dojo in Woburn, MA and I'm wondering if people have advice on how to market to commuters from the northern suburbs and into Boston. Not exactly tactics, but what do you think people in this modern day and age are looking for in terms of health, self defense and spirituality, or do these things even exist anymore?

The few threads I've read suggest that people here are quite insightful, and are concerned with the same kinds of issues that I am. I'm hoping there might be some insight out there that could prove helpful.

[Anjin]

Shidoshi,

As I sure you are aware, you have competition in Chelmsford, MA (or at least did a short time ago).

Given the current nature of New Age interests, you may wish to consider attending and advertising at New Age events (Holistic Fairs, etc.). Some Martial Arts Schools already put on exhibitions there, however they are more the McKarate types. By presenting the literal Japanese translation of "Aikido", you will present an art that has a depth few of your attendees have ever seen before! Show them how little force is needed to perform a technique. Let a woman from the audience perform a simple technique against her male partner.

An advantage aikido has is the ability to temper a response to the degree of committment of the aggression. Karate doesn't do that. Stress the ability to temper the response! Explain the Zen association with sword and empty hand. Do an empty hand technique against an Iaito.

They will love it!

Of course, if all else fails you can mention Steven Segall, (but I wouldn't ).

(I personally study ninjutsu. There are some similarities in the "degree of response" catagory.)