Born in 17 February 1938, Yoshimitsu Yamada sensei was a student of O Sensei for more than ten years and is an 8th dan and has been the chief instructor at the New York Aikikai since 1964. Currently, he is Chairman of the Board of the United States Aikido Federation and the Latin America Aikido Federation. He is the author of Aikido Complete and has made multiple aikido training tapes.

Yamada Sensei is known for his clear and strong basic technique. He teaches seminars worldwide and thousands of students have attended his classes. "We must keep the spirit of budo no matter how we practice," he says. New York Aikikai, 142 W. 18th St., New York, NY 10011 USA (212) 242-6246.