The Dojo
About
The Dojo offers comprehensive training in multiple martial arts disciplines, including Aikido, Ryu Te Karate, and Iaido. The teaching staff consists of highly experienced instructors with advanced dan rankings across these arts, such as Chief Instructor Chikako Bryner Sensei, who holds 6th Dan in Aikido and 5th Dan in both Aikido Toho Iai and Ryu Te. The gym emphasizes practical self defense applications, with reviewers noting that the Nishio style of Aikido taught here is particularly effective for real world situations. Weapons training is integrated into regular practice, creating a well rounded martial arts education.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the knowledgeable and humble instructors who create a welcoming, family like atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the effectiveness of the martial arts taught, particularly noting that the Nishio style Aikido works well for self defense. Many mention training for years or even decades, describing it as one of the best choices they've made. Specific instructors are commended for being patient, kind, and encouraging, especially toward women and beginners.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
petre-calin popescu
2 years ago
Best place ever— Nishio style aikido (one of the few aikido styles that actually work for self defense), weapons training is integrated to practice, ryu te— Okinawan karate (excellent for self defense), and Iaido— sword drawing. Kind, knowledgeable teachers, very welcoming, friendly, encouraging and supportive. Students range in age from kids to over 70 year olds, and there are beginners to highly advanced practitioners. Worth checking out.
Lucas Caro
7 years ago
Great Dojo for beginners and experienced people. Teaching Aikido, Iaido (Japanese Swordsmanship) and Ryu Te (Japanese self-defense). Great humble sensei and crew who all love teaching.
anna burdeos
a year ago
I've been a member since March 2022 and it's been wonderful. I recently got my black belt in Iaido. Our sensei is very encouraging and I find her to be one of the most patient and kindest persons ever. I love this dojo! I encourage everyone, especially women, to do martial arts.
Anthony King
7 years ago
One of the best place I have studied martial arts. Sensei is extremely knowledgeable, they offer several different forms to study, and it had a family feel.
Marcel SEL Blanco
11 years ago
A great martial arts school teaching Aikido, Ryu Te Karate and Iaido. I've been training here for over 10 years and it was one of the best choices I've made in my life.
paymentsMembership
$150/mo
Contact
12245 Santa Monica Blvd 2nd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Friday: 6:15 – 7:15 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 – 10:30 AM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Chikako Bryner Sensei
Chief Instructor
6th Dan Aikido, 5th Dan Aikido Toho Iai, 5th Dan Ryu Te®
Continues the tradition and teaching of Bryner Sensei as chief instructor. Over 40 years of martial arts training.
Teruko Ishikawa Sensei
Instructor
6th Dan Aikido, 1st Dan Aikido Toho Iai
Began Aikido training in 1983. Also holds teaching credentials in Qigong and Sogetsu flower arrangement.
Ken Corre Sensei
Instructor
Godan (5th Dan) Aikido, 2nd Dan Aikido Toho Iai
Began studying Aikido in 1993. Embraces irimi and enjoys Aikido's applications on and off the mat.
Dean Fortunato Sensei
Instructor
Godan (5th Dan) Aikido
Began study of Aikido in 1976. Trained under Ikeda, Saotome, Suzuki, and Bryner Senseis. Over 35 years at the Dojo.
Derek Snyder Sensei
Instructor
Godan (5th Dan) Aikido, Shodan in Aikido Toho Iai
Started Aikido training in 1989. Also studied Judo and Boxing. Main instructor was Robert Bryner Sensei. Over 30 years at the Dojo.
Louis Noble Sensei
Instructor
3rd Dan Ryu Te, 3rd Dan Aikido Toho Iai
Began martial arts training in 1993 at UCLA with Robert Bryner Sensei while studying aerospace engineering.
Sarah Rodriguez Sensei
Instructor
4th Dan Aikido, 2nd Dan Iaido Toho Iai
Started aikido as a teenager in the 1990s, joined The Dojo in 1997. Trained in various styles including Nishio Sensei style.