Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Premier Aikido Dojo in Burbank, CA
Aikido Daiwa has been dedicated to teaching traditional Aikido in Burbank and the greater Los Angeles area since 1979. Founded by Jack Arnold Sensei, a direct student of T.K. Chiba Shihan, our dojo emphasizes the core principles of Aikido: harmony, discipline, and self-improvement through non-competitive practice. Our Chief Instructor, John Brinsley, a 6th Dan practitioner trained at Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, leads a curriculum that includes dynamic techniques, weapons training, and pair-based practice. We offer classes for all ages and skill levels, fostering physical strength, mental focus, and personal growth in a supportive community environment. As a member of Birankai North America, recognized by Hombu Dojo in Japan, we uphold the highest standards of Aikido instruction.Our programs for children, teens, and adults provide safe spaces to develop coordination, confidence, and lifelong friendships. With flexible month-to-month memberships and introductory lessons for new students, we make Aikido accessible to everyone. Our legacy of over 40 years reflects our commitment to preserving the art's integrity while adapting to modern needs. We believe Aikido is not about defeating others but about cultivating inner strength and peaceful conflict resolution. Whether you seek fitness, self-defense skills, or spiritual growth, our dojo welcomes you to begin your journey at any stage of life.
Services
Adult Aikido Classes
Youth Program
Weapons Training
Private Lessons
Belt Promotion Preparation
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- Over 40 years of Aikido instruction in the Los Angeles area
- Chief Instructor with 6th Dan certification from Aikikai Hombu Dojo
- Curriculum combining traditional techniques with modern accessibility
- Family-friendly environment for all ages and skill levels
- Recognized by Hombu Dojo Japan through Birankai North America affiliation
Associations and certifications
- Birankai North America
Services
Adult Aikido Classes
Comprehensive Aikido training for adults focusing on throws, joint locks, and self-defense techniques. Classes emphasize physical conditioning, mental discipline, and conflict resolution through non-competitive practice. Suitable for all experience levels from beginners to advanced practitioners.
Youth Program
Structured Aikido instruction for children aged 4-17 that builds strength, coordination, and confidence. Curriculum includes age-appropriate techniques, safety training, and character development in a supportive environment that fosters lifelong friendships and personal growth.
Weapons Training
Traditional Japanese sword and staff techniques integrated into Aikido practice. Develops spatial awareness, precision, and understanding of weapon-based defense scenarios while maintaining Aikido's core principles of harmony and non-aggression.
Private Lessons
Personalized 30-minute sessions for new students to learn Aikido fundamentals and dojo etiquette. Tailored instruction helps beginners understand training expectations, safety protocols, and basic techniques before joining group classes.
Belt Promotion Preparation
Guided progression through Aikido's ranking system with comprehensive technique instruction and testing preparation. Covers all required forms and principles for belt promotions in a structured, supportive environment.
People
John Brinsley
Chief Instructor
6th Dan Aikido practitioner with over 20 years experience training at Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo under Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba. Specializes in traditional technique transmission and modern application.
Jack Arnold
Dojo Founder
Established Aikido Daiwa in 1979 after studying under T.K. Chiba Shihan. Practiced martial arts for 47 years, combining judo, jiu-jitsu, and Aikido expertise to create a community-focused training environment.
Questions
What is Aikido and how is it different from other martial arts?
Aikido focuses on non-competitive self-defense using throws and joint locks to neutralize attacks without aggression. Unlike striking martial arts, it emphasizes harmony and redirecting energy rather than meeting force with force.
What age groups do you accept for training?
We offer classes for children as young as 4, teens, and adults of all ages. Our youth program starts at $40/month for ages 4-6 with progressive training options through adulthood.
Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Our free introductory lesson helps beginners understand basic techniques and training expectations before joining regular classes.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear loose-fitting clothing that covers knees and elbows. Avoid jewelry. We provide traditional Aikido uniforms for purchase once you decide to continue training.
How does belt ranking work in your program?
Our structured curriculum covers all required techniques for belt promotions. Testing occurs periodically with progressive requirements from white belt through advanced black belt ranks.
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