Harmony, friendship thrive in aikido class

Kneeling in silence on the blue mat, the students bow in unison - a gesture steeped in tradition, honoring both the martial art and its instructor. Some of them have been coming here for over a decade, their movements smooth and familiar, while others are just beginning, eager to learn.

For over 30 years, aikido has been a cornerstone of Eugene Rec's martial arts programs, and much of its success is thanks to Wayne Vincent.

"I've been training in aikido for 50 years," Vincent said. His journey began in the early '70s after attending a demonstration at a recreation class. "I was hooked. I did not like the competitiveness of other martial arts at that time, so aikido was just a perfect fit."

Vincent began his career with Eugene Rec in 1985 as a substitute instructor, but by the late '90s, he had become the full-time sensei of aikido at Amazon Community Center.

"Aikido translates to 'the way of harmony,'" Vincent said. The practice emphasizes using movements, balance and mindfulness to harmonize with an opponent's energy rather than confront it. "It's actually more practice in daily life than it is on the mat."

During class, partners alternate between attacker and defender roles, mastering self-defense techniques that focus on nonviolent resolutions. Later in the term, students learn how to utilize traditional Japanese forms, such as wooden swords and staffs, as part of the practice. There is no direct competition between the practitioners - just a shared experience of refining the art.

"I tell my friends it's like magic," said Roland Good, one of Vincent's longtime students. "I step foot on the blue mat and all the cares of the day are gone, I can just be there."

More than a method of self-defense, aikido offers a unique blend of physical and mental benefits, making it a well-rounded practice for all ages. Its flowing movements provide a full-body workout, improving strength, flexibility and coordination, while mindful breathing and meditative focus promote stress relief.

"Aikido gives me an opportunity to get rid of stress, do exercise and work with great people," Vincent said. "It's a really enjoyable class to teach and train with the students."

Through regular partner training, aikido also encourages communication, teamwork and the development of lasting friendships, creating a welcoming space for connection both on and off the mat. Vincent said his relationships with students often extend beyond class time - one even became a lifelong friend and the best man at his wedding.

After practicing a series of graceful falls and calculated movements for an hour, class is complete. The students bow to the instructor and chat amongst themselves as they exit into the crisp October evening, lingering in the parking lot.

"This group is an important social, friendship group for me. I look forward to seeing everyone," Good said. "The whole thing just really works for me; I get a great deal of joy out of the practice."

Registration for Winter-Spring aikido classes begins at 9 a.m. Dec. 10.

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