Kokikai Aikido

An effective form of self-defense, Kokikai Aikido relies on a strong mind and correct technique not physical strength alone. As a result classes include both men and women practicing on equal footing. Designed to defend against multiple attackers, it offers many solutions to aggressive behavior by others.Kokikai Aikido practice is characterized by realistic, focused attacks, and the fluid responses that employ timing and rhythm to take the opponents balance completely before the application of a throwing technique.

By emphasizing human development, Kokikai Aikido results in self-improvement. Kokikai Aikido training promotes centering, correct posture, relaxing progressively and positive mind. The combination of these elements produces a different concept of strength which results when mind and body work together in a relaxed way. This discipline not only allows us to defend ourselves, it enables us to increase our enjoyment of our daily lives and enrich the lives of others. Most importantly, Kokikai Aikido offers us the opportunity to learn how to control ourselves, so that we can deal with any situation gently, and with confidence.

Anyone Can Do It

In our teaching we encourage everyone. Founder Maruyama Sensei has said not everyone can be a great marathon runner or tennis player, but everyone can become proficient in Aikido through Kokikai training. He says "If I can do it, you can do it."

We invite you to join us to experience, the power and enjoyment of Kokikai Aikido.

Dojo History

The Princeton University Aikido club was founded in 1981 by David Nachman Sensei and Veronica Burrows Sensei.

David Nachman and Veronica Burrows began their study of Aikido under the direct supervision of Kokikai Aikido founder Shuji Maruyama Sensei. Nachman Sensei holds the rank of sixth degree black belt, having studied Aikido since 1976. Burrows Sensei has studied Aikido since 1977, and holds a fifth degree black belt. They have taught Aikido to adults and children since 1981, when they founded the Aikido practice group at Princeton Univerisy and the Princeton YWCA. Students of their training continue to instruct these flourishing practice groups, and have since founded many additional Aikido groups around the country.