Two Cranes Aikido
About
Two Cranes Aikido in Seattle offers instruction in Aikido and Aikibojitsu, with a coaching team led by experienced instructors including Dojocho Kimberly Richardson (7th Dan Aikido), co-founder Dan McAbee (6th Dan Aikido, 6th Dan Aikibojitsu), and Program Director Sara Gerhart Snell (6th Dan Aikido, 4th Dan Aikibojitsu). The dojo provides training for all ages and skill levels, from children and teenagers to adults in their 20s through 80s, creating an inclusive environment where both beginners and experienced martial artists can develop their practice. The instructors are known for their depth of knowledge and range of experience, with many holding advanced dan rankings and some having trained for decades.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the welcoming community and supportive atmosphere, with multiple reviewers noting instructors who actively introduce themselves to parents and establish personal connections. The depth and range of instructor experience receives frequent mention, with specific appreciation for Kimberly Richardson's skillful, compassionate, and inspirational teaching that has impressed even veteran martial artists. Reviewers describe the dojo as transformative and inclusive, welcoming people of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels from fearful beginners to experienced practitioners. The training encourages personal growth, curiosity, and deeper compassion while maintaining a fun and engaging environment.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Charlie Kimball
6 years ago
My daughter has only been attending since the Fall of 2019, but I have been so impressed with the sense of community that the leaders of the organization are creating. I've had no short of five different instructors come to sit with me while my daughter is training in order to introduce themselves, learn my name, and establish a rapport for future dialogue about the classes, the experience, and the overall vibe of the dojo. Excellent job!
Daniel Pollack
10 years ago
I have been training here since 2009. No where else I have I encountered the depth and range of experience that the instructors at Two Cranes Aikido bring to the mat. This is a fantastic t place for kids and teenagers to explore the practice of Aikido and for both beginning and experienced adults to find excellent instruction and talented training partners.
Laura Brown
10 years ago
I have been training at TCA for 12 years. It's been a transformative experience for me. Kimberly Richardson is a skillful and compassionate instructor with a depth of understanding of the art that is incredibly impressive. Plus, it's fun! I started at age 50, fearful couch potato, and the entire dojo was welcoming and supportive to me. Join us!
Kristen Allott
10 years ago
What continually surprises me about training at Two Cranes Aikido the range of different types of people who train. Women, men, teens, children, people in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s. and Duran Sensei visits regularly and is in his 80s. Many people have trained in other martial arts and some people have never done a sport in their lives. What holds us altogether is the willingness and curiosity to study Aikido and tolerate the change that takes us to the next level in our training and encourages a deeper compassion for our selves and others.
Alan Best
10 years ago
I just returned from a weeklong Aikido Summer Retreat in California that was attended by Aikido teachers from all over the United States. One of the main instructors at the camp this year was Kimberly Richardson, the chief instructor at Two Cranes Aikido. Her amazing skill, depth of knowledge, and inspirational teaching style impressed everyone at the camp! I have trained in martial arts for over 40 years, and I have been a teacher for over 30 years. It takes a lot to impress me. Kimberly Richardson certainly did! If I lived in Seattle I would definitely be training at Two Cranes Aikido, and I cannot recommend them highly enough! - Alan Best, Chief Instructor, Best Martial Arts Institute, Eugene, Oregon
groupCoaches & Instructors
Ken Wright
Tai Chi Instructor (Sifu)
Teaches Chen style 48 form Tai Chi at beginning and advanced levels. Classes are open to the dojo community.
Sara Gerhart Snell
Instructor, Program Director of Two Cranes Institute
6th Dan Aikido, 4th Dan Aikibojitsu
Began at Two Cranes Aikido in 1998. Teaches adult and children's classes. Masters degree in Music.
Kimberly Richardson
Dojocho, Head Instructor
7th Dan Aikido
Founded Two Cranes Aikido in 1995. Trained since 1978. Teaches Aikido philosophy and practice to all ages. Integrates tai ji and ballroom dance elements.
Dan McAbee
Co-founder, Instructor
6th Dan Aikido, 6th Dan Aikibojitsu
Co-founder of Two Cranes Aikido. Began training in 1990. Also practices Tai Ji Chen form and push hands.
Dave Hurley
Instructor
6th Dan Aikido
Began studying Aikido in 1974. Applies Aikido principles to daily interactions. Trained under Frank Doran Sensei.
Greg Mock
Instructor
6th Dan Aikido
Began Aikido in 1972 with Frank Doran Sensei. Founding member of North Bay Aikido. Longtime student of Saotome Sensei.
Taryn Sass
Instructor
5th Dan Aikido
Began training in 1996. Trained at UC Santa Cruz and joined Two Cranes upon moving to Seattle. Geologist and civil engineer.
Tim Schmelter
Instructor
5th Dan Aikido
Began aikido in Austin, Texas, in 2003. Founding member of South Austin Aikido. Software developer.
Dennis Johnson
Instructor
5th Dan Aikido
Began training at Two Cranes in 2007. Retired psychologist. Believes Aikido provides a model for conflict resolution.
Lynda Sensei
Instructor
Teaches Basic Sword class. Full name not provided in text.