Business Details
29 Years
experience
World-Class Aikido Training for All Ages in Teaneck, NJ
Aikido North Jersey was founded in 1997 by Jerry Zimmerman, a sixth-degree black belt with over 40 years of teaching experience. Our dojo emphasizes the traditional Japanese martial art of Aikido, developed by Morihei Ueshiba, which focuses on redirecting aggression without violence. We offer structured classes for children, teens, and adults, fostering physical fitness, mental discipline, and personal growth. Our instructors, certified by international Aikido organizations, prioritize creating a supportive environment where students develop self-defense skills, confidence, and community bonds.With decades of collective experience, we maintain a commitment to preserving Aikido's principles while adapting to modern needs. Our programs emphasize non-competitive learning, allowing students to progress at their own pace. The dojo serves as a second home for many families, providing consistent, values-driven instruction. We integrate mind-body training to cultivate awareness and responsibility in daily life. Regular testing events and advanced training opportunities ensure continuous development for dedicated practitioners.
Services
Kids Aikido Classes
Teen Martial Arts
Adult Aikido Training
Weapons Practice
Japanese Sword Instruction
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of Aikido expertise from certified instructors
- Our non-competitive environment allows personalized skill development
- Classes available for all ages from children to adults
- Focus on practical self-defense techniques without violence
- Community-centered training with intergenerational connections
What people say
Second home for children
Better and more successful person
Consistent pursuit for 10 years
Molded into the person I am
Supportive learning environment
Services
Kids Aikido Classes
Our Aikido program for ages 6-9 builds physical coordination, self-control, and social skills through partner exercises. Students learn non-violent conflict resolution while developing fitness and focus in a supportive environment that emphasizes trust and mutual respect.
Teen Martial Arts
Designed for ages 10-15, this program develops self-confidence and real-world self-defense skills. The non-competitive format fosters mental discipline, physical agility, and maturity while helping students improve focus and goal-setting abilities in a safe, structured setting.
Adult Aikido Training
Our adult classes focus on practical self-defense techniques, physical fitness, and mind-body connection. Practitioners develop balance, agility, and stress management skills while learning effective defense strategies that emphasize redirection rather than confrontation in a welcoming community environment.
Weapons Practice
Advanced students train with traditional Aikido weapons including wooden swords, staffs, and knives. This practice enhances spatial awareness, precision, and understanding of movement principles while deepening connection to Aikido's historical roots and technical foundations.
Japanese Sword Instruction
Our Shinkageryu Hyoho Japanese sword classes teach traditional swordsmanship techniques with focus on proper form, timing, and mental discipline. Students develop physical coordination and understanding of classical martial arts principles through structured practice and partner drills.
People
Jerry Zimmerman
Head Instructor
Jerry Zimmerman, a sixth-degree black belt with 40+ years of experience, founded Aikido North Jersey in 1997. Certified by international Aikido federations, he trained directly under master Yoshimitsu Yamada and continues teaching traditional techniques with modern applications.
Brad Retter
Instructor
Brad Retter, a fourth-degree black belt, brings extensive Aikido experience to his teaching. He focuses on technical precision and practical application while maintaining the art's philosophical foundations in his instruction at Aikido North Jersey.
Brian Vacante
Instructor
Brian Vacante, a fourth-degree black belt, contributes to the dojo's teaching staff with his expertise in Aikido techniques. He emphasizes proper form and effective self-defense applications in his classes for students of all experience levels.
Questions
What Aikido programs do you offer for different age groups?
We provide specialized Aikido training for children (6-9), teens (10-15), and adults, with classes tailored to each group's developmental needs and physical capabilities.
How does Aikido differ from other martial arts?
Aikido focuses on redirecting aggression without violence through circular movements and joint locks rather than striking techniques, emphasizing conflict resolution over competition.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
Our instructors hold black belt ranks from 2nd to 6th degree and are certified by international Aikido organizations, with decades of combined teaching experience.
Do you offer trial classes for new students?
Yes, we provide a one-week free trial program allowing prospective students to experience our Aikido classes before committing to regular training.
What are the benefits of practicing Aikido at your dojo?
Students develop physical fitness, mental discipline, self-defense skills, and community connections while learning non-violent conflict resolution techniques in a supportive environment.
