About Us
Aikido
Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba (1883 - 1969). Aikido is a non-competitive martial art that utilizes throws, joint locks, and pins to counter the force of aggressors. The techniques of Aikido seek to blend and harmonize with the force of an attack and use dynamic movements and positioning to establish control. Aikido also includes weapons training with the Japanese sword and staff.
Aikido is usually practiced in pairs, but is not competitive. The emphasis of training is on self-improvement, not defeating your partner.
Continued practice not only improves strength, flexibility, and balance, but also focus, awareness, discipline, and confidence.
Dojo
Founded in 1979 by Jack Arnold, Aikido Daiwa has been teaching Aikido in Burbank and the greater Los Angeles area for over forty years. Arnold Sensei was a student of T.K. Chiba Shihan, a direct student of Aikido founder, Morihei Ueshiba.
Aikido Daiwa is a member of Birankai North America, an organization founded by T.K. Chiba Shihan to promote quality instruction and practice of aikido. Birankai is recognized by Hombu Dojo in Japan.
Chief Instructor
John Brinsley has practiced Aikido since 1991, primarily in Tokyo at Aikikai Hombu Dojo under the direction of Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba, following mainly T. Miyamoto sensei. He returned to Los Angeles from Japan in June 2013 and currently holds the rank of 6th Dan.
Dojo Founder
Jack Arnold began his martial arts studies while working as a musician in New York city, acquiring black belts in both judo and jiu-jitsu. In 1967 Arnold Sensei moved to Los Angeles and shortly after began his study of Aikido at the Los Angeles Aikikai, where he remained for twelve years. Aikido Daiwa began life in 1978 as a community service program and now, 40 years later, enjoys international recognition. Arnold Sensei practiced aikido for 47 years and continued teaching at the dojo up until his passing in 2013.