Aikido Florida Aikikai

- 730 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

Introduction / Overview

Aikido Florida Aikikai, nestled in the vibrant community of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a truly remarkable dojo that goes far beyond the typical martial arts school. It is a place dedicated to the "way of harmonizing life energy," where students embark on a continual journey for both "spiritual and physical betterment." This esteemed institution is home to "wise, witty, dedicated, heartfelt, and earnest practitioners" who are committed to spreading the teachings of Aikido. The school is led by high-level practitioners, including chief instructors Peter Bernath Sensei and Penny Bernath Sensei, who are members of the United States Aikido Federation (USAF) board. Their direct lineage to the founder of Aikido, O Sensei, and their extensive experience make them second to none in the field. This level of world-class instruction is a cornerstone of the dojo's identity. Aikido Florida Aikikai offers a wide array of programs for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced students, with a special focus on their highly recommended children's programs and summer camps. The school's philosophy is rooted in the belief that the practice of Aikido can contribute to a more peaceful world by teaching students to be "calm and focused in difficult situations" and to resolve conflict without resorting to violence. This makes it an ideal place for individuals and families in the Fort Lauderdale area seeking a holistic approach to martial arts training.

The dojo provides an immersive and enriching experience that extends beyond the mat. Students have access to "many high level practitioners," which exposes them to a variety of teaching styles that "greatly benefit growth in the art." The community atmosphere is a huge draw, with many students feeling that the teachers and fellow practitioners have become "close friends outside of training." This family-like environment is a testament to the school's core values. For children, the summer camp and youth programs, led by "remarkable" leaders like Helen Sensei, are a standout feature. Parents praise the way the instructors build confidence and character in their children, making the dojo a safe and positive space for growth. The school offers a range of specialized classes, including those focused on weapons training and overall wellness, demonstrating its commitment to a comprehensive martial arts education. With special offers for new students, like an introductory package that includes unlimited classes and a free uniform, Aikido Florida Aikikai makes it easy for newcomers to step onto the mat and begin their journey in a welcoming and professional setting.

Location and Accessibility

Aikido Florida Aikikai is conveniently located at 730 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USA. This prime location on a major federal highway makes the dojo easily accessible for residents throughout Fort Lauderdale and the broader Broward County area. The school's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its accessibility features. It is equipped with a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can comfortably and safely access the facility. The presence of a restroom on site is an additional convenience for students and visitors. The combination of a central location, ample accessibility, and practical amenities makes Aikido Florida Aikikai a highly convenient and welcoming choice for anyone in the Florida region looking to engage in martial arts training.

Services Offered

• Martial Arts School: A premier dojo specializing in the traditional Japanese martial art of Aikido.
• Aikido Classes: A wide range of classes for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
• Children's Camp: A dedicated summer camp program for kids that blends martial arts with other activities.
• Adult Program: Classes designed specifically for adult students focusing on spiritual and physical betterment.
• Private Classes: One-on-one sessions with highly skilled instructors for personalized training.
• Training Camps and Seminars: Special events and programs to deepen students' knowledge and skills.
• Specialized Training: Classes focusing on weapons, internal arts, and overall wellness.
• Unlimited Classes: Membership options that allow for unlimited class attendance, providing maximum training flexibility.

Features / Highlights

• World-Class Instruction: The dojo is led by Peter and Penny Sensei, who are highly respected, high-level practitioners with direct lineage to the founder of Aikido, O Sensei.
• Family-Like Community: The dojo fosters a welcoming and supportive environment where students and teachers feel like family, creating strong bonds and a sense of belonging.
• Holistic Approach: Training at Aikido Florida Aikikai is not just about physical techniques but also about personal growth, teaching students to be calm, focused, and resilient in all aspects of life.
• Highly Praised Children's Program: The kids' program and summer camp are highly recommended by parents for their ability to instill discipline, confidence, and respect in children.
• Diverse Teaching Styles: With "many high level practitioners," students benefit from a variety of teaching styles that contribute to well-rounded growth.
• Excellent Facilities: The dojo is praised for its "huge mat and clean facility," providing a perfect space for safe and effective training.
• Accessibility: The school offers a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring the facility is open and available to everyone.
• Flexible Enrollment: There are usually special offers for new students, including a trial period with unlimited classes and a free uniform, making it easy to get started.

Contact Information

Address: 730 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USA

Phone: (954) 562-1093

What is worth choosing

Choosing Aikido Florida Aikikai is a decision that is well worth it for a multitude of reasons, as evidenced by the heartfelt testimonials from its students. The most compelling reason is the truly exceptional quality of the instruction. The opportunity to train under Peter and Penny Bernath Sensei, who are considered "one of the best dojos in the country" and have a direct lineage to the founder of Aikido, is a rare and invaluable experience. This isn't just about learning martial arts; it's about receiving an authentic, world-class education from masters of the craft. Furthermore, the school's philosophy is deeply ingrained in the practice. It teaches a form of self-defense that is also a path to self-improvement and inner peace, focusing on harmony and blending with an opponent's energy rather than brute force. This makes it an ideal fit for individuals of all ages and physical abilities. For families, the children's camp and youth programs are a standout feature, praised for being a safe, fun, and creative environment where kids learn valuable skills like discipline and confidence from "amazing" instructors. The community aspect is another major draw. The dojo is described as "home," with many students forming close friendships and feeling a sense of belonging that extends beyond their training sessions. The facility itself is clean, well-equipped, and welcoming, with a large mat that facilitates effective training. With offerings like unlimited classes, private lessons, and specialized seminars, the school provides flexibility and depth for every student's journey. The option to take a trial class, often with a special offer, provides a no-risk way to experience this remarkable environment for yourself. In summary, Aikido Florida Aikikai offers a unique and enriching experience that combines unparalleled instruction, a supportive community, and a philosophy that truly benefits every aspect of a student's life, making it a premier choice in Fort Lauderdale.

Aikido Florida Aikikai

730 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USA