Aikido Del Mar
About
Aikido Del Mar offers training in mixed martial arts and judo, with a particular focus on Yoshinkan Aikido. The gym is led by a team of highly credentialed instructors, including co-founders Kevin Sensei and Edward Sensei, both Rokudan (6th-degree black belt) Shihan, alongside other experienced instructors like Joe Sensei and Nick Sensei. This expertise allows for a structured, technique-focused approach to martial arts education. Members frequently note the instructors' ability to break down complex techniques into manageable steps, making the practice accessible to students of all levels, including those with physical limitations or past injuries. The coaching style is described as patient, professional, and profoundly educational, with an emphasis on personal development rather than competition. The gym accommodates various schedules with classes offered at multiple times throughout the day, catering to early birds and evening participants alike. A complimentary first class is available for newcomers, reflecting the dojo's welcoming policy. Members describe the environment as safe, comforting, and empowering, where the practice aids in building stability, confidence, and inner strength. The community is repeatedly highlighted as kind, compassionate, and supportive, making it an integral part of many members' lives. The dojo also engages with the broader public through monthly open classes, fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Overall, Aikido Del Mar provides a holistic training experience that blends technical martial arts instruction with a strong, supportive community focused on personal growth.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the supportive and empowering atmosphere, describing the community as kind, compassionate, and welcoming. They highlight the instructors, particularly Kevin Sensei, for being master teachers who break down techniques into easy-to-learn steps with patience and professionalism. Reviewers appreciate the focus on personal development over competition, the flexible class schedules that fit around work, and the practice's role in building confidence, inner strength, and bodily safety. Specific mentions include the benefit for those with physical limitations or past trauma, the complimentary first class, and the fun yet profound teaching style.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Bruce Balog
6 months ago
(Sept. 2025) I am recently enrolled in the Aikido Del Mar classes. I have had knee surgery so am a bit more limited on some abilities. Instructor Sensai Kevin and the other members have all been very helpful and professional and encouraging. So far a positive experience.
Lucia Nicola Evans
3 years ago
My Experience with Aikido Del Mar has been really supportive and empowering. The people that come to the dojo are kind and compassionate. All the teachers are really great and patient. I have been practicing Aikido since 2015 and love the Yoshinkan Style of Aikido. It aids in creating stability, confidence and inner strength. Kevin Sensei is a Master teacher who has spent countless hours to breakdown each technique into bite size pieces so it makes it easier to learn Aikido. He has been practicing and teaching for over 30 years. I feel so grateful that I found this practice. It has helped me feel safe in my body, work through past trauma so I am able to function better in everyday life. I would definitely recommend you to come try a class - first class is complimentary. We always love it when new people join our Aikido family. You will be warmly welcomed!
Nick Harrington
3 years ago
I've been training at Aikido Del Mar since 2014. I first got into Aikido at the recommendation of a roommate in college and I enjoyed it so much I searched for Aikido after I moved to SD. There are plenty of classes at a variety of times to accommodate all schedules, whether you're an early bird or prefer evening workouts. What really draws me to Aikido is that there is no competition. It is more for personal development so there is less pressure, and that really resonates with me as I do not like competition or pressure. So if you're like me and don't really like conventional exercise like running or going to a gym, give Aikido a try!
Stephane Provost
7 years ago
Flo Sensei and Kevin Sensei teach aikido in a fun yet profound way. They offer public classes once a month for everyone, which is very cool. Our kids are attending and they're enjoying it. Definitely recommend. Btw this is not a black belt factory, you're expected to develop your skills :)
Tiffany Chu
3 years ago
Aikido del mar is a very safe and comforting community of people. I started at this dojo almost a year ago, and it's an integral part of my life. I feel lucky to be able to learn from some of the best instructors. The classes are offered at great times that fit around a work schedule. I would high encourage anyone who's curious to come try out a class!
paymentsMembership
$145/month unlimited
Contact
7875 Highlands Village Pl Suite B-101A, San Diego, CA 92129, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:00 – 7:00 AM, 7:00 – 8:30 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 – 7:00 AM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 – 7:00 AM
Thursday: 6:00 – 7:00 AM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 – 7:00 AM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 – 9:00 AM, 4:00 – 5:30 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Kevin Sensei
Co-founder, Head Instructor
Rokudan (6th-degree black belt), Shihan, Internationally Certified Instructor
Full-time Aikido practitioner since 1999 with over 30 years experience. Trained extensively in Japan and North America. Founded Aikido Del Mar in 2008.
Edward Sensei
Co-founder, Instructor
Rokudan (6th-degree black belt), Shihan
Based in LA where he owns Aikido Mugen Juku. Began training in 1996, direct student of Jacques Payet Shihan since 2001. Regularly trains in Japan.
Joe Sensei
Instructor
Yondan (4th-degree black belt) in Yoshinkan Aikido
Began Aikido in 1992. Trained under Yukio Utada Sensei and later TK Chiba Sensei. Leads morning adult classes on Mon/Wed/Fri.
Nick Sensei
Instructor
Sandan (3rd-degree black belt) in Yoshinkan Aikido
Discovered Aikido in college. Joined Aikido Del Mar in 2014. Special interest in ukemi and Aiki-Jujutsu. Teaches Thursday evening class.
Lucia Sensei
Instructor
Started training in 2015. Applies Aikido principles in her work as a transformational coach to help clients resolve conflict and create connections.