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Welcome
Banshinkan Aikido founded by Sensei Mark Dorfman in 1990 is a member dojo of the Aikido World Alliance (AWA). Located near Philadelphia in Broomall, PA, the mission of our dojo is to teach the traditional martial art of Aikido as passed down by its founder Morihei Ueshiba. We strive to create an atmosphere of open and serious pursuit for all people interested in mastering this art of self-defense. Black belt certifications are issued through the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, Japan.
About Us
We strive to teach not only the practical side of self-defense but also the traditional aspects of this Japanese martial art. Wooden weapons training including the Bokken (sword), Jo (staff) and Tanto (knife) are an integral part of our instruction. The open hand techniques we teach evolved from the weapon’s parries and cuts of the Japanese Samurai warriors. Students learn the Japanese names for the various attacks, body movements and defensive techniques in both weapons and open-hand practice. Learning to fall in conjunction with throwing techniques is an important part of our training. We provide a safe environment in which to learn the correct way to roll on padded mats when being thrown by a fellow practitioner. Our training has many physical and mental benefits that extend beyond the dojo walls.
Getting Started
Banshinkan dojo has open enrollment. Beginning and advanced students train together. We believe there is no true beginning or ending point in your Aikido training. Everyone is always striving to perfect their Aikido. We recommend that prospective students come to watch and/or participate in at least one class before joining. Please feel free to talk to students of the dojo and the sensei to determine if this type of training is a good match for your own personal reasons to study this martial art.  |
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