Business Details
15 Years
experience
Your Trusted Aikido Dojo in Pawtucket, RI
Aikido is a traditional Aikido dojo established in 2011, dedicated to preserving the teachings of Aikido's founder through direct lineage instruction. Our Chief Instructor, David Halprin 7th dan, studied under Mitsunari Kanai Sensei for 27 years, ensuring authentic transmission of techniques and philosophy. We offer structured training for adults and children in a cooperative environment that emphasizes safety, mutual respect, and technical precision. Students develop physical fitness, mental focus, and conflict resolution skills while learning to neutralize attacks through circular movements rather than brute force. Our curriculum follows time-tested methods, including formal test requirements and etiquette practices passed down from Kanai Sensei's 38-year legacy in the US.With weekly classes and annual seminars, we maintain strong connections to the global Aikido community while serving local practitioners. Our instructors combine decades of experience with a commitment to nurturing both technical proficiency and character development. The dojo continues Kanai Sensei's vision of Aikido as a path for personal growth and peaceful conflict resolution. Regular updates to our schedule ensure accessibility while maintaining traditional standards. All classes emphasize proper form, safety protocols, and progressive skill development tailored to different age groups.
Services
Adult Aikido Classes
Kids Aikido Classes
Aikido Seminars
Beginner Curriculum
Test Preparation
Etiquette Training
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- Chief Instructor with 27 years studying under Aikido's founder's direct student
- Authentic curriculum preserving Kanai Sensei's 38-year US teaching legacy
- Family-friendly environment with age-appropriate classes for all skill levels
- Structured progression system with formal testing requirements
- Annual seminars featuring guest instructors from global Aikido community
Services
Adult Aikido Classes
Structured Aikido training for adults focusing on traditional techniques, self-defense applications, and physical conditioning. Classes emphasize cooperative practice, technical precision, and gradual skill progression through formalized curriculum and testing requirements. Students develop improved coordination, situational awareness, and conflict resolution abilities while maintaining physical fitness.
Kids Aikido Classes
Age-appropriate Aikido instruction designed to build discipline, confidence, and respect in children. Classes incorporate fundamental movement patterns, safety protocols, and basic self-defense techniques adapted for young practitioners. Curriculum emphasizes character development alongside physical skills through structured activities and progressive testing requirements.
Aikido Seminars
Annual intensive training sessions featuring guest instructors and special topics in traditional Aikido practice. Seminars provide opportunities for technical refinement, exposure to advanced concepts, and community building through concentrated practice periods. Participants receive direct feedback from experienced instructors following Kanai Sensei's teaching lineage.
Beginner Curriculum
Systematic introduction to Aikido principles covering basic movements, breakfalls, and partner drills. New students learn essential techniques, safety protocols, and philosophical foundations through progressive lessons that prepare for formal testing. Curriculum follows standardized requirements established by the dojo's chief instructor.
Test Preparation
Guided training for belt promotion examinations covering technical proficiency, knowledge of forms, and understanding of Aikido principles. Instructors provide personalized feedback to ensure students meet established standards for each rank. Preparation includes practice with senior students and review of formal testing requirements.
People
David Halprin
Chief Instructor
7th dan Aikido master with 27 years studying under Mitsunari Kanai Sensei. Leads technical instruction and maintains traditional standards at Aikido since its founding in 2011.
Wayne Sherman
Senior Instructor
6th dan Shidoin with extensive teaching experience. Assists in technical supervision and provides advanced instruction under Chief Instructor Halprin's guidance since the dojo's establishment.
Dare Matheson
Dojo Cho
3rd dan instructor responsible for daily operations and student coordination. Supports technical instruction while maintaining dojo organization and community engagement since joining in 2011.
Colin Guthrie King
Instructor
2nd dan assistant instructor focused on beginner training and youth programs. Provides technical demonstrations and supports student development under senior instructors' supervision since joining the dojo.
Questions
What is Aikido and how is it different from other martial arts?
Aikido focuses on blending with attacks rather than meeting force with force. Our classes teach circular movements to redirect energy safely, emphasizing cooperation over competition.
What age groups do you accept for training?
We offer classes for adults starting at 16 years old and children's programs for ages 6-15 with age-appropriate techniques and safety protocols.
Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Our beginner curriculum starts with fundamental movements and safety practices for all new students regardless of background.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes. We recommend cotton pants and a t-shirt that allows free movement. Specialized Aikido uniforms can be purchased later if desired.
How often are belt promotions held?
Testing occurs quarterly. Students progress through formal requirements covering technical proficiency, knowledge of forms, and understanding of Aikido principles.
Are there opportunities for advanced training?
Yes, we offer annual seminars with guest instructors and provide pathways for students to develop advanced technical skills and teaching capabilities.
