The intention of this group is to gather those who wish to train seriously, regardless of previous experience with Aikido or Jujutsu, or any other martial art, in or near the Rockaway Borough area, on a weekly basis. Discussion will be welcome before and after the class/meeting; however the purpose of this meeting is to have a structured Aikido class. All are welcome to attend and you may definitely bring a friends even if they did not join meetup.com.

I am a Sandan in Aikido and a Sandan in Jujutsu. Sandan = 3rd Degree Blackbelt; and I have always felt that the techniques and the and the practice of Budo, particularly of Aikido and Jujutsu are priceless, and have worth beyond measure. However, my time and expertise are indeed worthwhile, and their worth is indeed measurable. Furthermore, when I consulted some business folks about how to increase the interest in my classes; they told me that in the minds of most people free = worthless. So, the classes will no longer be free of charge.

For Mudansha or those below the rank of Shodan (1st degree black belt), the mat fee is $15/session or $40/month.

For Yudansha or those above the rank of blackbelt, there is no training fee although donations are still very much appreciated.

I do want to make it known that I do understand the difficulties of this economy and being broke and still having a desire to train. So, if you truly wish to train and have a serious training attitude then please contact me about my "scholarship" program, where some or possibly all of the cost of the fees can be bartered or traded for useful service to the dojo and (possibly blood and tears when all is said and done...LOL) sweat .

The first class is always free of charge so you can see what you are getting into and whether it is some thing that you would want to continue, but donations are always appreciated. ;)

"Always take your training with deadly seriousness but never take yourself seriously at all!"

Unless otherwise indicated, the meet-ups/classes will be held here:

American Center for Martial Arts

337 US Highway 46 Rkwy Boro A

Rockaway, NJ 07866