We are students of the Aikikai of Philadelphia in Center City, Philadelphia PA.

What is Aikido?
Aikido both literally and figuratively means’ “the way of harmony.” It is identified as a Japanese martial art originated by Morohei Ueshiba (1883-1969) but its roots can be traced back multiple centuries through Daito-ryu jujitsu, Japanese fencing and other arts that influenced the founder.
It has been said that Aikido is the art of swordsmanship without the sword. Like all simplifications, this is both true and misleading.
The stances, posture and basic movements of Aikido all reflect the traditions of the katana (Japanese sword) but in Aikido there is no duality, no competition, no confrontation. The unique innovation of Morohei Ueshiba has been to create a martial art wherein there is no enemy. There is only the action of an individual mind and soul moving in harmony with the Spirit of the universe. For this reason Aikido is often regarded as “Zen in motion.”
Rather than block and parry, the Aikido practitioner blends and moves. The sensation is akin to a tornado or whirlpool that overtakes and overwhelms then ultimately controls through redirection. The size and weight of both parties are largely irrelevant. The Aikido joins with the attack and allows it to travel along its desired path then continue on into a throw or pin.
Words can only suggest the subtleties of what occurs in the process called “blending.” Observing a class offers a better opportunity to appreciate the beauty and power of Aikido and so the public is invited to watch students of varying levels explore the nuances of “the way of harmony,”


Aikikai of Philadelphia is the first Aikikai to be established in the Philadelphia area.  It is allied with the U.S. Aikido Federation, headquartered in New York, and with Hombu Dojo in Tokyo.  This professional school offers a wide range of Aikido and Aiki-related activities to suit the serious practitioner’s needs.  Children’s classes (ages 6-12) are offered twice-a-week, as well as Aiki weapons, Iaido, KI Breathing, Meditation and Basic, Intermediate and Advanced classes.  Guest master instructors are frequently invited to teach workshops and seminars, lecture, and also perform.  

Aikido of Philadelphia’s mission is to develop the whole person through the creative art of Aikido.  Chief instructor Henry Smith has designed an original approach to Aikido training that introduces the martial arts student to cross-cultural disciplines and practices emphasizing the realization of vital psycho-physical energy known to the Japanese as Ki.  The practitioner can then develop a deeper understanding and apply these principles in a practical and creative way to daily life.