Business Details
35 Years
experience
Traditional Aikido & Iaido Training in Portland, OR
Multnomah Aikikai has been dedicated to teaching traditional Japanese martial arts since 1992, offering Aikido and Iaido training in a supportive community. Our certified instructors emphasize non-competitive practice, fostering physical strength, mental focus, and resilience through dynamic techniques and safe falling. With over 125 years of combined experience among our instructors, we provide structured programs for adults, teens, and children, including specialized classes for beginners and advanced practitioners. Our dojo philosophy centers on mutual growth, etiquette, and personal development, reflecting the principles of Birankai North America.We host regional seminars, collaborate with Pacific Northwest dojos, and maintain a commitment to inclusivity, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds. Our programs include tailored options for organizations and partnerships with local institutions like Portland State University. Financial flexibility is available through family discounts, hardship rates, and community memberships, ensuring accessibility for all interested students.
Services
Aikido Training
Iaido Sword Practice
Children's Martial Arts
Regional Seminars
Membership Programs
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- Certified instructors with over 125 years of combined Aikido experience
- Non-competitive environment emphasizing personal growth and safety
- Structured programs for all ages and skill levels
- Active participation in regional martial arts seminars and events
- Flexible membership options including family discounts and hardship rates
Services
Aikido Training
Aikido develops body-mind coordination through circular defense techniques and safe falling practices. Our program builds physical strength, mental focus, and resilience while emphasizing non-competitive growth. Students learn traditional Japanese martial arts principles through repetitive kata forms and partner exercises.
Iaido Sword Practice
Iaido teaches precise sword-drawing techniques using wooden bokken. This practice enhances concentration, balance, and body awareness through structured forms and partner drills. Our program follows the Iai Battoh-Ho lineage while accommodating beginners without prior sword experience.
Children's Program
Our youth program introduces ages 7-12 to Aikido fundamentals through safe falling techniques and cooperative exercises. Classes focus on motor skill development, self-confidence building, and interpersonal cooperation in a non-competitive environment that emphasizes personal growth over trophies.
Regional Seminars
We host and participate in regional seminars featuring visiting master instructors from affiliated dojos. These events provide diverse training opportunities, foster community connections, and support local organizations through fundraising activities that benefit the broader Portland community.
Membership Programs
Flexible membership options include unlimited Aikido classes, dedicated Iaido training, and community memberships. Our month-to-month structure offers financial flexibility through family discounts, hardship rates, and work-study arrangements while maintaining quality instruction and facility standards.
People
Suzane Van Amburgh
Chief Instructor
Rokudan (6th degree black belt) with 40+ years of Aikido experience, certified Feldenkrais practitioner, and Birankai North America board member. Teaches regular classes and private lessons in Aikido and Iaido.
Aki Fleshler
Founder
7th degree black belt Shihan with 50+ years of experience, founded Multnomah Aikikai in 1991. Trained under T.K. Chiba Sensei and serves on Birankai North America's Senior Council.
Nathan Young
Children's Program Director
Shodan (1st degree black belt) with 8+ years at Multnomah Aikikai, specializing in youth instruction since 2019. Focuses on making martial arts accessible and engaging for children.
Adam Westphal
Assistant Iaido Instructor
Nidan in Mugai-ryu Meishi-ha with 20+ years of Iaido experience, assists with program administration and leads Tuesday evening classes since 2018.
Dave Dewberry
Assistant Instructor
Yondan (4th degree black belt) with 45+ years of Aikido experience, teaching since 1994 and leading Forest Grove Aikido classes since 2002.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We teach traditional Aikido and Iaido, focusing on body-mind coordination, safe falling techniques, and sword-drawing practices in a non-competitive environment.
Are there classes for beginners?
Yes, we offer introductory options including a two-week trial, one-on-one lessons, and beginner-focused classes on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday mornings.
What should I wear for my first class?
For your first class, wear comfortable workout clothing. We provide loaner uniforms and wooden practice swords for new students.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, families receive a 20% discount on total monthly fees when two or more members from the same household enroll in our programs.
Are there opportunities for advanced training?
Advanced students can participate in regional seminars, weapons training, and specialized programs with visiting master instructors from affiliated dojos.
How do I join the Iaido program?
The Iaido program requires application due to limited space. We offer three weekly classes led by certified instructors with experience in traditional sword practices.
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