Start an aikido club in a rented hall

Adults, teens and parents of children looking for a martial art that is about technique and fitness rather than competition.

Monthly membership fees or drop-in session fees, plus small extras like uniforms (gi), seminars and grading fees.

• Solid aikido experience and a recognized rank
• Clear, patient teaching
• Safe class management
• Basic marketing and bookkeeping

• Commercial general liability insurance, often also available through a national or provincial martial arts association
• Signed waivers for every student, and a clear injury and first aid plan
• If you teach children, check whether the venue or your association requires a vulnerable sector check
• Hall rental contracts, rate increases and loss of time slots
• GST/HST registration once your revenue passes the small supplier threshold, check with the CRA
• In Quebec, check French-language requirements for signs and marketing
• Winter weather and summer holidays can reduce attendance

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000 CAD, depending on mats, insurance, waivers and how you set up your first classes. Hall rental is an ongoing cost, so get quotes from local venues before committing.

Check commercial general liability insurance, which is often also available through a national or provincial martial arts association, and signed waivers plus an injury and first aid plan. Also check hall rental contracts, rate increases, and whether child classes need a vulnerable sector check.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $600 to $3,000 CAD, depending on member numbers, fees and class frequency. Winter weather and summer holidays can reduce attendance, so plan for quieter months. Teaching typically starts from around 6 hours a week.