Aikido Schools of New Jersey
About
Aikido Schools of New Jersey offers comprehensive martial arts training in both MMA and karate disciplines, supported by a deep roster of experienced instructors. The coaching staff includes Chief Instructor Jay Tall, along with multiple dan-ranked instructors like Tom Newcomen (4th dan Aikido and Go-Ju Ryu Karate), Derrell Thomas (5th dan, Shidoin), Hal Lehrman (7th dan Shihan), and Frank Pakulski (4th dan, Shidoin), who collectively provide structured classes for all ages and skill levels. The dojo features specialized programs including children's classes, adaptive classes for neurodivergent individuals, and Iaido training, with a flexible schedule offering classes seven days a week to accommodate diverse needs.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere where instructors are described as patient, respectful, and genuinely caring. They highlight how the senseis, including Jay Tall, Frank, Paul, James, and others, provide both encouragement and challenge, making students feel safe and supported. Reviewers note the positive impact on children's confidence and personal growth, with many mentioning the inclusive environment for neurodivergent individuals and families. No concerns are raised in the reviews, with members strongly recommending the gym for its excellent training and community feel.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Danielle Perrotta
9 months ago
🫶We love Aikido Schools of NJ! My son and his dad train together there - his dad for almost 20 years and my son for 3. ⭐️The Sensei and teachers are warm, friendly, and kind. They encourage the kids with praise and provide structure in their classes 🙏This is a safe and welcoming place for young children, neurodivergent people and families. 💗It feels like a family - everyone looks out for each other and they have celebrations for holidays. 🙌my son is a Junior Deshi and he helps the kids in the classes. I am so proud of him and credit the classes with giving extra encouragement about school, recognition for his hard work, and care about him as an individual. Go take a class and check out the dojo! I highly recommend Aikido Schools of NJ.
abby Ford
2 months ago
ASNJ is a rare and wonderful place. Cannot overstate. My 12 y/o daughter started practicing here in November, she loves it. This isn’t our first crack at martial arts - My daughter can be shy and hesitant to put herself out there- but she has truly thrived here. The vibe/ the instructors/ the energy is just so awesome - she is engaged and challenged and feels comfortable - she has never said “I don’t want to go”. The whole Dojo is just full of caring, intelligent and funny instructors and members who genuinely care for and support one another. Sensei Jay and the rest of the Dojo leadership / instructors we have worked with so far (Frank, Paul, James, Thu, Barry, Tom, and Guzman) are all really great - they are awesome teachers, compassionate towards the students while challenging them to be their best selves - and always, always welcoming. I cannot recommend ASNJ enough to parents and to adults who want to practice. They offer tons of classes, very flexible schedule, interesting and fun options no matter your level/ readiness. If you are considering trying or returning to martial arts for yourself, or for your child/adolescent/teenager, ASNJ should be your first stop. You will not regret it.
W. Sinclair
2 weeks ago
My son attends Aikido here and it has been such a positive experience for him. He started in October and truly enjoys going. The owner and instructors are incredibly patient, respectful, and supportive. They genuinely care about their students and make a real effort to teach the art. I already recommended Aikido to a friend.
P R
2 weeks ago
Love it here. Learn real martial arts in a caring and challenging environment. There are a large volume of classes available for the price you pay. Aikido for adults, kids, and even an adaptive class is available. Come try it out for yourself! 👍
Thu T
a year ago
With classes 7 days a week, there’s something for everyone here. Awesome folks, excellent training program, this is truly the best Aikido dojo and community in NJ.
paymentsMembership
First month $50 (promotional)
Contact
324 W Westfield Ave W REAR, Roselle Park, NJ 07204, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 12:00 PM – 1:30 AM
Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM
Wednesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Jay Tall
Chief Instructor
Sensei
Chief Instructor of ASNJ.
Tom Newcomen
Instructor
4th dan Aikido, 4th dan Go-Ju Ryu Karate
Started martial arts in 1978. Holds black belts in Go-Ju Ryu Karate and Aikido.
Barry Stratford
Instructor
2nd dan
Began Aikido in 2005. Often teaches Ukemi (the art of falling).
Derrell Thomas
Dojo Director, Director Iaido Program
5th dan, Shidoin
Began Aikido in 2000 under Shihan Richard Stickles. Runs the Iaido program. Currently ranked 3rd degree black belt in Iaido.
Hal Lehrman
Shihan
7th dan
Shihan and instructor at ASNJ.
Parviz Ghahramani
Instructor
3rd dan
Started Aikido in 2008 after 18 years of Taekwondo. Teaches some beginner's classes.
James Taylor
Instructor
1st dan
Studying Aikido since 2012. Teaches beginner and youth classes. Background in Hapkido, Karate, and Daito-Ryu.
Connie Trumper
Instructor
5th dan, Fukushidoin
Began Aikido in 1994. Previously ran the children's program. Also a yoga instructor.
George Walden
Assistant Instructor
2nd dan
Started Aikido in 2010. Assists with kids and beginner's classes.
Walter "Buck" Braxton
Instructor
5th dan, Fukushidoin
Studied Aikido under Shihan Rick Stickles for over twenty years. Teaches afternoon classes.
Paul Burt
Director of Facilities, Assistant Instructor
2nd dan, Fukushidoin
Started Aikido in 2013. Manages the front desk and assists with beginner's and kid's classes.
Frank Pakulski
Dojo Director, Director Children's Program
4th dan, Shidoin
Started Aikido in 1997. Focuses on concepts from sword training. Runs the children's program.