Yoshinkan Aikido NT: Family-run martial arts studio opens its doors in Yarrawonga

Darwin families that want to teach their children self-discipline, self-control and respect may find the answer in martial arts – with a new family-run centre recently opening its doors.

Yoshinkan Aikido centre in Yarrawonga. Picture: Supplied

A military family has put down roots in the community and opened a marital arts studio in a Palmerston suburb.

Mother Josie Boag said while she was used to uprooting and joining new communities, the Northern Territory had captured her family’s heart.

“After moving to the NT, it just felt like home; we instantly fell in love,” Ms Boag said.

It was this love for the Territory which led Mrs Boag, and husband Mitch Boag to give back to the new community they now called home.

“We wanted to give back to the community by sharing our skills,” she said.

“My husband Mitch is a very talented martial artist.

Mitch Boag is a very talented martial artist. Picture: Supplied

“He has a third-degree black belt in Yoshinkan Aikido, a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, an orange belt in Judo and five years’ experience in Muay Thai.

“We came up with idea of running martial arts classes to get local kids engaged early and get some adults into it as well.

“Martial arts teaches kids, discipline, respect, self defence and confidence.”

The family opened their Yoshinkan Aikido studio in Yarrawonga in October.

Aikido is a Japanese martial art that focuses on using the momentum of an attacker against them, meaning it relies on skill, rather than personal strength.

Mr Boag has been practising Aikido since 2003.

“It’s a very disciplined form of martial arts which is great for children,” Ms Boag said.

Aikido is particularly appropriate for children, Mrs Boag said. Picture: Supplied

“We want to share his knowledge and get Territorians to grow in their self development, self discipline and self control.”

A number of children, police officers and defence personnel are undergoing training with Mr Boag at the studio.

“Because we’re motivated to do this for our community, the fees we’re currently charging over cover 80 per cent of our costs,” Mrs Boag said.

“We don’t want to make any money out of it — that is not our goal.

Peter Mayo, Mason and Mahalia at Yoshinkan Aikido centre in Yarrawonga. Picture: Supplied

“Our goal and purpose is to serve our community and enhance the lives of Territorians.”

Mrs Boag said she hopes more local families will consider using their free sports vouchers towards training at the studio.

“We are hoping to get 40-50 people involved,” she said.

Ms Boag encouraged anyone interested in learning Aikido to visit their website and register their interest.