Arizona Aikido
About
Arizona Aikido offers training in mixed martial arts and karate disciplines within a supportive, non-competitive environment. The coaching style emphasizes partner-based training where students of all ability levels work together under the guidance of experienced instructors. The dojo is known for its welcoming approach, making it accessible for both local residents and visiting martial artists seeking a place to practice while in Phoenix.
Members consistently describe transformative experiences at this gym, noting how the instruction fundamentally changes lives through excellent teaching and genuine support. Reviews highlight the deep and vast martial arts experience of the instructors, with specific praise for Sensei Tom's wisdom and kindness. The atmosphere is consistently described as positive and encouraging, with students participating in community events and cultural demonstrations throughout the Phoenix area. Visitors appreciate the responsive communication via email when planning their visits, which contributes to the overall welcoming experience from the moment they step on the mat.
This gym has maintained a dedicated community since at least 2011, with many members training for years alongside their partners. The focus remains on personal development rather than competition, creating an environment where everyone feels included in their martial arts journey. Whether seeking a home dojo or temporary training while visiting, Arizona Aikido provides what members describe as exactly what the martial arts community should be.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels included from their first visit. They highlight excellent instruction, particularly from Sensei Tom, who is described as a true sensei with deep martial arts wisdom. Reviewers emphasize the non-competitive, partner-based training that focuses on personal development rather than combat. Many mention life-changing experiences and appreciate how the dojo participates in community events throughout Phoenix.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Valley Aikido
6 years ago
Some of the nicest people to train with. Very welcoming.
John W
4 years ago
This place fundamentally change my life! Tom is a true sensei.
Mor Ben David
3 months ago
Warm welcome for visiting aikidoka! I had a wonderful experience visiting this dojo while in Phoenix. Communication via email was quick, responsive, and welcoming, which made planning my visit easy. Everyone made me feel welcome from the moment I stepped on the mat. The instruction was excellent, the training partners were friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere was genuinely supportive. If you're visiting Phoenix or looking for a home dojo, I highly recommend training here. This is what the aikido community should be!
Oly Medlicott
7 years ago
Amazing group with deep and vast martial art experience. Old, wise and kind souls. So happy to have a chance to practice here!
Robert Brandon
13 years ago
My wife and I have been training at this school since Fall 2011, and I think it deserves more recognition than I can easily provide in this review. To anyone considering joining a school of martial arts here in Phoenix, I highly recommend coming by to sit in on or participate in a class. The students and teachers are all very welcoming and willing to work with students of any ability level. The training here is all done with partners, and the general attitude of the school is very positive and encouraging of everyone's development, and is not at all competitive or combative. The students and teachers here also participate in many community and cultural events, giving demonstrations and presentations all around Phoenix. I'm glad I joined and got involved with Arizona Aikido.
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:30 – 7:30 PM
Tuesday: 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Friday: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: 1:30 – 2:45 PM