Philadelphia Aikido

Although I have been training with Cecelia Sensei for fifteen years, I continue to learn more about aikido every time I step on the mat with her. Little refinements of craft. Eureka moments of insight. She knows exactly how far to push, at exactly the right times, so students gain the knowledge and build and build and build. Because aikido is about much more than self-defense - it's also about personal awareness, balance, harmony - her lessons extend beyond the dojo. We have a diverse community of students from every conceivable background, all of whom found something worthwhile in the dojo, with Cecelia Sensei and with each other. Come join us!

Great dojo! Everyone is super nice, helpful, and very patient with new members. I love this place!

Superb dojo with an inspiring Sensei, excellent teachers and students, a generous and committed group of black belts, and a supportive and rigorous culture. I would say the dojo combines the best qualities of taking the art very seriously but not taking oneself too seriously, with ample good natured humor mixed in with the effort and challenge of learning the complex and beautiful techniques. I have trained in Aikido dojos in Chicago, Seattle, and San Francisco and this is by far the best training I have ever experienced.

This dojo has an incredible wealth of experience! I began training 10 years ago at Philadelphia Aikido, but moved out of state for a few years. Each time I'd train at a different dojo for a period, my eyes were opened to the EXCELLENCE that I was missing back in Philadelphia (part of the reason I moved back here!!). There are many black belts here - many of whom have been training for 20-30years+! The classes are structured so that beginners can safely learn how to fall, roll, and generally get "up to speed" with how to train in a few short months. Cecilia Sensei's instruction has become sharper and more creative over time and her clear instruction is delivered with the most joyful, forgiving humor that you probably can't even imagine until you experience for yourself! I believe everybody should consider learning SOME basic self-defense skills in their lives, but this is a place that you just might have so much fun doing it that you'll surprise yourself by how far you end up rising through the ranks!! This is a dojo WORTHY of taking that first step of the proverbial "thousand mile journey!!!"