San Diego Aikikai
About
San Diego Aikikai offers a comprehensive martial arts experience with training in MMA, judo, and karate alongside its core aikido focus. The gym is led by a highly credentialed team of instructors, including Chief Instructor Deena Drake (6th Dan, Shihan), Assistant Chief Instructor Julian Frost (5th Dan, Shidoin, with additional black belts in Iaido and Jodo), and several other experienced instructors like Ram Lichtman (4th Dan, Shidoin) and Gary Payne (4th Dan, purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu). This diverse expertise allows for a well rounded curriculum that caters to various interests and skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners seeking high level instruction. Members consistently praise the quality of training, with reviews highlighting the serious, dedicated atmosphere and the exceptional skill level of the instructors, making it a respected destination for martial arts in San Diego.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the high level of aikido instruction, describing the training as exceptional and serious. Reviewers note that students, including children, become deeply engaged and dedicated to their practice. The gym receives specific commendation for creating an environment that appeals to entire families, with one member mentioning enrolling their whole family. All reviews express strong satisfaction, highlighting the quality of instruction and the positive, committed atmosphere without any noted criticisms.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (4)
Liz V. P.
a year ago
We’ve signed up the whole Phamily. 🥋🤩
Blaise “Mr Meowington III” Sewell
10 years ago
My son loves taking aikiedo classes here. Never seen him take anything more seriously.
Carson S
9 years ago
The aikido is very high level.
Jamie Hunter
4 years ago
Amazing Aikido!
Contact
3400 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:00 – 7:15 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 – 8:30 AM
Thursday: 5:00 – 8:30 PM
Friday: 6:30 – 8:45 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:20 PM
Sunday: 10:00 – 11:00 AM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Ram Lichtman
Instructor
4th Dan, Shidoin
Started Aikido in 1997. Trained in Davis and Berkeley before joining SD Aikikai in 2012.
Deena Drake
Chief Instructor
6th Dan, Shihan (Master Instructor)
Began training in 1995, completed kenshusei program in 2007. Certified instructor (Shidoin). Board of Directors for Birankai North America.
Julian Frost
Assistant Chief Instructor
5th Dan, Shidoin. Black belt in Iaido and Jodo.
Started Aikido in 1982. Former uchi deshi and kenshusei under Kazuo Chiba Shihan. Over 40 years of Aikido study.
Gary Payne
Instructor
4th Dan. Purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Started Aikido in 1989. Also practiced American Kempo Karate, Shito-ryu Karate, BJJ, and Krav Maga.
William Ahrens
Instructor
4th Dan, Fukushidoin
Began Aikido practice in 1990. Leads a Musu Shinden Ryu Iaido study group.
Adrienne Earhart
Instructor
1st Dan
Teaches the teens class and is Assistant Teacher for the kids classes.