I have studied martial arts around the world, under wonderful instructors, with beautiful aikido skills, from my childhood in Eastern Europe, to London with Kanetsuka Sensei (Yoshinkan), to San Diego with Chiba Sensei (briefly), West LA with Pablo Vasquez (both USWAF Aikikai), and others in between.
In my humble opinion, no other style has come anywhere near the Nishio Aikido style, which is the style taught at this Dojo, when it comes to structuring the art, explanation and direct linking of each technique to its weapons origin. This approach takes the art from mystery and unanswered questions, to a precisely detailed, meticulously mapped method of teaching, and understanding.
Nishio's dedicated life work brings much needed logic to the study of this most beautiful art, while staying true to its martial origin, and in doing so, making sure it stays effective in the unlikely real life need of self defense.
Unfortunately, I came across too late to meet Nishio Sensei personally, but the instructors and most senior practitioners have learned from him, and since his passing, from Yoshida Sensei, who comes every year from Japan, and conducts amazing seminars here in Southern California.
Chikako Bryner Sensei's (Chief instructor at The Dojo) knowledge, form and ability to teach, combined with her wonderfully disarming personality, makes her the ideal instructor.
Most dojos teach weapons only minimally, or not at all, but the Nishio style incorporates the weapon training as part of the on-going curriculum. Hence the free hand- weapons training is perfectly balanced.
If you look for, by far, the best aikido instruction on the Westside, do not pass on this one. Weather you are an accomplished aikido practitioner, or have just wondered about studying this beautiful, elegant and time-less martial art, there is no better place to practice. Private classes are also available for a very reasonable price.
The dojo also teaches Ryu Te karate, which compliments the aikido training beautifully.
Contact the dojo, expand your experience of life, start practicing this beautiful art- one that you can continue to study and grow with for the duration of your life, or just send your kid to the kids' class; they'll grow up smarter and more disciplined, happier, will learn to make better choices, and for sure will do better in school.
Call the numbers above and make an appointment, or just stop by and watch a class.
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