Business Details
29 Years
experience
Traditional Aikido Training in Wyckoff, NJ
Aikido Of Ramapo Valley was established in 1997 as a traditional Aikido Dojo dedicated to teaching martial arts as a way of life. Our program emphasizes harmony, non-resistance, and self-transformation through physical practice and Zen meditation. With over 25 years of experience, we offer structured classes for adults and children, focusing on empty-hand Aikido, Aiki-weapons, and mindfulness techniques. Our instructors, including Chief Instructor Eran Junryu Vardi Sensei, bring decades of expertise from direct lineages of Aikido's founder, ensuring authentic instruction. We maintain affiliations with the United States Aikido Federation and International Aikido Federation, reinforcing our commitment to traditional standards.Our practice cultivates awareness, discipline, and conflict resolution skills applicable to daily life. The Dojo's seven-day schedule accommodates diverse student needs while fostering a joyful, inclusive community environment. Our approach integrates physical training with spiritual growth, aligning with Aikido's philosophy of peaceful resolution. Through regular seminars and retreats, we extend our teachings beyond local classes to national and international audiences. Our combined focus on technical precision and personal development establishes us as a trusted authority in traditional martial arts.
Services
Aikido Classes
Children's Program
Zen Meditation
Aiki-weapons Training
Seminars & Retreats
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of authentic Aikido instruction from direct lineage instructors
- Our curriculum integrates physical training with Zen meditation principles
- Family-friendly environment with specialized children's programs
- Certified instructors affiliated with major international Aikido organizations
- Seven-day schedule accommodating diverse student availability
Associations and certifications
- United States Aikido Federation
- International Aikido Federation
Services
Aikido Classes
Traditional Aikido instruction for adults focusing on empty-hand techniques, blending with incoming force, and peaceful conflict resolution. Classes emphasize technical precision, body mechanics, and philosophical principles. Suitable for all experience levels seeking physical fitness and personal growth.
Children's Program
Specialized Aikido classes for children developing self-discipline, concentration, and non-violent conflict resolution skills. Curriculum balances physical exercise with character development in a safe, engaging environment. Promotes confidence and focus applicable to school and social situations.
Zen Meditation
Guided Zen meditation sessions integrating mindfulness with martial arts training. Practice cultivates mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual awareness. Sessions include zazen (seated meditation) and dharma talks from experienced instructors.
Aiki-weapons Training
Traditional weapon practice including wooden sword (bokken), staff (jo), and dagger (tanto) techniques. Training develops spatial awareness, movement precision, and understanding of Aikido principles through weapon-based applications.
Seminars & Retreats
Specialized training events featuring guest instructors, multi-day retreats, and corporate mindfulness workshops. Programs offer immersive learning experiences for skill advancement and application of Aikido principles in professional settings.
People
Eran Junryu Vardi Sensei
Chief Instructor
6th Dan Shihan with 30+ years experience, direct student of Yamada Shihan. Founder of ARV and ordained Zen master. Combines martial arts expertise with neuromuscular therapy background.
John Huang
Assistant Instructor
5th Dan with extensive teaching experience, regularly trains with Vardi Sensei to maintain technical consistency and quality instruction standards.
Don Villarosa
Assistant Instructor
3rd Dan instructor committed to traditional Aikido principles, contributes to maintaining high-quality training programs for all students.
Sau Yan Yee
Assistant Instructor
4th Dan with dedicated Aikido experience, ensures consistent technical instruction aligned with ARV's traditional standards.
Rob Sinka
Assistant Instructor
3rd Dan instructor actively involved in training programs, maintains technical excellence through regular practice with senior instructors.
Questions
What is Aikido and how does it differ from other martial arts?
Aikido focuses on harmonizing with attacks rather than meeting force with force. It uses circular movements and joint locks to redirect energy peacefully, unlike striking-based martial arts.
Is Aikido suitable for children?
Yes, our children's program develops discipline, focus, and non-violent conflict resolution skills in a safe environment appropriate for young practitioners.
What qualifications do your instructors hold?
Our chief instructor holds 6th Dan Shihan rank with direct lineage connections to Aikido's founder. All assistants maintain active training and formal certifications.
Do you offer Zen meditation practice?
Yes, we incorporate traditional Zen meditation into our training, with guided sessions and dharma talks led by our Zen master instructors.
Are your classes affiliated with major Aikido organizations?
We maintain active membership with the United States Aikido Federation and International Aikido Federation, ensuring adherence to traditional standards.
