Private Classes

“I enrolled my 10 year old son in 4 private sessions with Ella to help him catch up with his class after being away for several weeks over the summer. Not only did he appreciate the one on one time, it deepened his love of Aikido and commitment to Rock Water. Since then, he has advanced a belt color, joined the ITP team, and keeps begging me for more “Ella-time”! Definitely a worthwhile investment!”  –  Andi, parent

“The benefits of private lessons are many.  What I found is the guidance on specific areas that needed improvement in the forms used, with acceleration towards goals.  As well the questions that you do not always have the time for in the main classes can be asked and answered.  There were and are many small improvements that help avoid injury and improve skills.  I would recommend these classes.”    – Dave, mature student

“I feel very thankful and appreciative of the option to augment my training with private lessons. Early on in my training I found one-on-one support to be a game changer, allowing the dedicated time and space to really focus on details and foundations of techniques to increase my comfort level and confidence in regular weekly classes. Sensei Martin is very creative in his teaching style, always thinking of different ways and metaphors to help his students remember important key details of techniques which I greatly appreciate. For anyone that might be on the fence about taking private lessons I would encourage taking the leap and trying a few. It doesn’t take a lot to make a big difference, and it does not need to be ongoing. I will definitely be sprinkling in private lessons periodically throughout my own training as time and finances allow.”  –  Lea, mature student since July 2025

 “When I caught the Aikido bug, I was eager to improve as much—and as quickly—as possible. Private lessons became the perfect opportunity to train more frequently and with greater focus. Martin Sensei provided in-depth explanations of each technique, breaking down not just the ‘how,’ but also the ‘why’ and ‘when’ behind every movement. He helped me recognize the gaps between my abilities and optimal technique, guiding me to bridge them step by step. Our sessions were highly interactive, marked by open communication, ongoing feedback, and collaborative problem-solving. I especially appreciated the chance to apply and adapt what I learned one-on-one with Sensei during group classes with different partners. Thanks to these private lessons, my progress in Aikido accelerated week after week—I truly felt myself growing by leaps and bounds.”  –  Jairo, young adult 

“Private lessons helped me focus on my technique and work through getting confident with the next set of learning for my belt test. Sensei’s customized coaching was invaluable for helping me develop good habits that I know will stick with me for the rest of my practice.”  –  Jen, mature student

“Rock Water Aikikai has been such a gift for my 10 year old son. His private lessons with Sensei Ella have become the highlight of his week. He has grown tremendously in skill and confidence, advancing through his belt levels with joy.  Sensei Ella’s playful yet respectful teaching style helps him understand even the most intricate movements while learning the deeper virtues of Aikido. We’ve watched him carry these lessons into his daily life with more patience, awareness, and grounded confidence.  We are so grateful to Sensei Ella, Sensei Martin, and the entire Rock Water community.” – Jordan, parent