Business Details
23 Years
experience
Welcome to Jiai Aikido - San Diegos Leading Aikido Dojo
Jiai Aikido has established itself as a premier destination for aikido instruction in San Diego since 2003. Our dojo offers comprehensive training in traditional and applied aikido, emphasizing natural movement mechanics and cross-disciplinary approaches. With specialized classes including systema hybrid training, LGBTQ+ allies sessions, and advanced ukemi techniques, we cater to students of all experience levels.Our instructors, including internationally recognized practitioners, combine decades of experience with innovative teaching methods to cultivate personal growth through O-Sensei's principles. We maintain strong affiliations with global aikido organizations while fostering a welcoming community that values individuality in training approaches.
Services
Traditional Aikido
Applied Aikido
Systema Hybrid
LGBTQ+ Allies
Weapons Training
Seminar Instruction
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Diverse class offerings including unique systema-aikido hybrid training
- Instructors recognized by international aikido organizations
- Specialized LGBTQ+ inclusive programs since 2003
- Proven track record hosting annual international bridge seminars
- Emphasis on natural movement mechanics for effective self-defense
Associations and certifications
- Aikido Shimbokukai
- Aikikai Foundation
- Hombu Dojo
Services
Traditional Aikido
Rooted in Morihei Ueshiba's principles, this discipline combines joint locks, throws, and pins with nonviolent conflict resolution. Our instructors teach fundamental techniques while emphasizing mind-body-spirit integration. Students learn proper etiquette, terminology, and solo practice forms that develop both physical proficiency and philosophical understanding.
Systema Hybrid
This unique program merges Russian martial arts with traditional aikido principles to enhance self-defense capabilities. Students develop adaptability through stress-tested techniques focusing on breath control, movement patterns, and realistic attack scenarios. The hybrid approach improves practical application of aikido principles under pressure.
LGBTQ+ Allies
Our welcoming classes create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ practitioners to develop martial arts skills while building community. The program maintains technical rigor while fostering acceptance through cooperative training methods. All experience levels benefit from personalized instruction tailored to individual learning needs.
International Seminars
Annual bridge seminars attract world-renowned instructors for intensive three-day training experiences. Participants engage in advanced technical workshops while connecting with practitioners from diverse backgrounds. The event combines rigorous physical training with cultural exchange through evening social programs and shared meals.
Weapons Training
Specialized instruction covers traditional aikido weapons including jo (staff), bokken (wooden sword), and tant (knife). Students learn proper handling techniques while practicing disarming and defensive maneuvers. This training enhances spatial awareness and reinforces empty-hand movement principles.
People
Cat Strada
Dojo Cho & Co-Chief Instructor
4th Dan Shidoin with over 15 years of teaching experience. Specializes in adaptive aikido and systema hybrid techniques. Travels extensively for seminars while leading San Diego's only LGBTQ+ inclusive aikido program.
Tom Liu
Instructor
4th Dan with expertise in mind-body integration principles. Combines aikido instruction with tai chi and internal martial arts training. Has taught at Jiai Aikido since 2017 under Aikido Shimbokukai guidelines.
Questions
What makes Jiai Aikido different from other martial arts schools?
Our unique combination of traditional technique with hybrid training methods creates a well-rounded martial arts experience.
Do I need any prior martial arts experience to join?
Classes welcome all experience levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners.
Are there special programs for self-defense training?
Our applied aikido and systema hybrid classes focus specifically on practical self-defense applications.
What should I wear for my first class?
We offer no-gi options for beginners - wear comfortable workout clothes that allow movement.
Does the dojo participate in competitions?
We focus on cooperative training rather than competition to better develop O-Sensei's peaceful principles.
Can I try a class before committing?
First class is always free - contact us to arrange your trial session.
Reviews (4)
Matt Pettit
Jun 14, 2021
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Many thanks to Jiai Aikido. I reached out ahead of my visit to SD and found the instructors very good communicators. I felt very welcome on the mat and had a nice evening training!
Matthew Smith
Dec 11, 2019
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Great place for Aikido training. Sensei is wonderful, kind, and willing to help expand what one thinks are his or her limitations. Fantastic training, and a beautiful, big space.
Crowwing
Oct 26, 2019
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The two women there are extremly rude to those who are non clients they seem to be on some sort of power trip for whatever reason they can find
A. T.
Sep 13, 2019
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This place is amazing! The dojo itself is very clean and huge! I have trained for about five months and all of the instructors are extremely knowledgeable, very patient and definitely have a passion to share their knowledge. Strada Sensei, Tomoleoni Sensei, and Liu Sensei have been my instructors and I couldn't be more pleased. In fact, I wanted to brag about how awesome they are and that's why you see 5 stars.
That's all the time I have for a Yelp Review today :)
That's all the time I have for a Yelp Review today :)
