Just two months after opening its doors, Nogales Aikido Club is promoting its first student.

Ruben Martinez demonstrated his Aikido skills, to pass his first test, at the club's sponsoring dojo in Tucson. Conducting the test was Aikido at the Center for Martial Arts Chief Instructor Judith Robinson, with advanced students observing.

Aikido is different than other martial arts because it is non-competitive, yet powerful and effective, said instructor James Cason. There are no competitions. Instead, there are exams where a student demonstrates proficiency. Aikido has an emphasis on harmony and using your opponents' own strength against them. It's a martial art that helps you get fit, learn self-discipline and relaxation, he said.

The basis

Aikido is based on self-defense principles used by the Samurai for centuries when an unarmed form of combat was necessary. This art focuses heavily on joint locks, throws and pins. It's relatively new, the basics of it having been developed in the early 1920s by Morihei Ueshiba, who looked to create not only an effective martial training regimen, but also an expression of his own philosophy of peace.

Want to join?

No prior experience is necessary and men and women of all ages are encouraged to participate. Classes are held at “The Dojo” (570 W. Mariposa, #F, behind Napa Auto Parts) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:15-9:45 a.m. Doors open at 8 a.m. All interested people�”no matter what age, sex, or fitness level�”are invited.

Who to contact

All visitors are welcome to watch or try a free class. For more information in Nogales, contact Cason at (520) 425-1794 or go to www.aikidoatthecenter.org.