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Since 1990, Aikido of Dallas has disseminated Aikido technique and philosophy
to the Dallas/Fort Worth Community. Established as a non-profit organization,
Aikido of Dallas is the only area dojo (training hall) that is a member
of the United States Aikido Federation and is headed by Yoshimitsu Yamada,
Shihan, 8th dan. Through this affiliation, Aikido of Dallas is connected
to the world's oldest and largest Aikido organization, Aikikai Hombu Dojo,
in Tokyo, Japan. As such, it is privy to the latest developments in international
Aikido and its members receive visits and instruction from high-ranking
instructors from Hombu Dojo and the rest of the world. Built and maintained
by its members, Aikido of Dallas, at 3000 sq. ft., is the largest Aikido
dojo in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.
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Akira Tohei Shihan, passed away July 2, 1999 and Dallas members continue
to practice in his spirit. Adult classes are open to students of all levels
and beginners may start at any time. Several classes each week are devoted
exclusively to beginners but all members are encouraged to practice as often
as possible. In any case, each student determines how often and how rigorously
he or she practices. There are no contracts; membership dues are remitted
on a monthly "pay-as-you-go" basis.
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Robert "Bob" Mason Sensei, the Aikido of Dallas chief instructor,
received much of his training from Akira Tohei Shihan. Bob Mason Sensei,
as one of Tohei Sensei's senior ranking students continues to practice and
share his Aikido experience with every member of the dojo. Beginners receive
individual instruction from senior students in exercises, falling, and basic
techniques. In traditional Japanese fashion, there is no "course schedule";
students with varying levels of experience practice together to the best
of their ability and newer students learn from their seniors. Aikido of
Dallas is open to the public and visitors are welcome anytime without an
appointment to observe classes and ask questions.
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