Located in New Orleans' Mid-City, we offer training in the Japanese martial art of Aikido. We're committed to helping every student, from beginner to advanced, learn and grow at their own pace. In time, young and old alike can become more fit, more confident, with a greater sense of well-being. Classes for both adults and children are offered. Watch our video to see Aikido in action.
Services
The founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba (O Sensei or 'Great Teacher'), created the art in the early 20th Century. Having practiced and mastered several martial arts, he came to believe that fighting and endless conflict is never the answer. Rather, peaceful resolution of conflict, without causing harm, is the greater path.
Our chief instructor is Robert Brian Levy Sensei, who holds the rank of 4th dan (black belt). A native of Louisiana, Brian Sensei has spent more than twenty-five years practicing aikido, both in the U.S. and Europe. He returned to New Orleans in 2007, where he first established our dojo in Bywater before moving to our present location in New Orleans's Mid-City.
Adult classes are offered regularly throughout the week. We encourage prospective adult students to join us any time for a free basics class (or even a few) to see what Aikido practice is like (see our schedule), and for new students, we offer a New Student Special. For students without a keiko-gi (practice uniform), we ask that T-shirts and sweat pants be worn to allow easy freedom of movement.
Our children's classes differ from our adult classes depending on age. For our youngest children (beginning around age 4), we offer our Peaceful Samurais program, where kids learn aikido principles through movement, breathing, stretching, and balance in the context of fun, interactive games.
Beginning around age 6, we offer our Peaceful Ninjas program, where we introduce children to traditional Aikido in the context of more complex games and exercises.And we begin belt tests to help kids set goals. Each child is encouraged to grow depending on ability, aptitude, and emotional maturity.
Beginning around age 6, we offer our Peaceful Ninjas program, where we introduce children to traditional Aikido in the context of more complex games and exercises.And we begin belt tests to help kids set goals. Each child is encouraged to grow depending on ability, aptitude, and emotional maturity.
Though our schedule may change slightly from week to week, we maintain a regular schedule throughout the year for both adult and children's classes, so adult students, and parents of younger students can easily plan ahead. If you would like to come try a free class (or even a couple of classes) you don't need to sign up below - just contact us to reserve a spot.
Reviews (10)
La R.
Dec 15, 2020
Report
Sensei Brian is an incredible teacher of my kids. He is kind, fair, patient, and makes it fun to learn the art of aikido. Classes held in beautiful City Park and social distancing is honored and respected or via zoom from the dojo to the kids home dojo. Look forward to working with him as the kids truly want to be there with Brian as the teacher. Nice job!
Harry K.
Oct 07, 2020
Report
Keith Watts
Dec 24, 2019
Report
I practice at NOLA Aikido under Sensei Brian Levy and the other instructors. I love it! The style of this dojo is gentle, and Aikido is not about hurting an attacker or fighting. It's about learning to use your body naturally. It's about going through your life optimally, safely, and confidently. I find myself feeling more gratitude and joy the longer I practice. This art is something I can go on practicing and working to master even as I get older. Everyday I find something new.
Josh Bisker
Dec 17, 2019
Report
I've trained aikido for decades all over the world and this is one of the most welcoming, wonderful aikido communities I've ever found anywhere. I feel so lucky to train here whenever I'm in New Orleans, and so impressed by the wonderful community spirit and excellent martial arts in this great space.
Vad Wanuu
Nov 24, 2018
Report
I discovered Nola Aikido 2 years ago and am so glad i did. Its a fantastic dojo . Brian Levy Sensei is an excellent and patient teacher. Its a warm, friendly environment in which to improve oneself with the study and practice of Aikido. I am much improved physically and mentally since joining. I even have my children enrolled. They are getting much needed exercise and discipline. I cannot recommend Nola Aikido enough.
Evan Marie Allison Pieknik
Nov 13, 2018
Report
NOLA Aikido is like a second home. The instructors and other students are incredibly welcoming, supportive, and provide a safe environment to practice and thrive. Once you join, you'll immediately feel part of the community which is richly diverse- gender, race, age etc. I've practiced at a number of other dojos and none can compare to NOLA Aikido in the amount of encouragement, depth of instruction, and positive culture which makes NOLA Aikido so uniquely special. Come see for yourself!
Majak Qigong
Oct 26, 2018
Report
A beautiful & safe space for practise, to learn both martial arts skills and self discipline, self empowerment & more! I can't recommend nola aikido enough to anyone and everyone. If you are interested in meditation, moving meditation, energy work, martial arts, breathing, all of this is part of the nola aikido study. Training is joyful and fun with great instructors!
Clebert LeBlanc
Aug 15, 2018
Report
Laura Whites
Jan 26, 2017
Report
My children have been students at NOLA Aikido since they were 5. I wanted a martial art for them but was not comfortable with the aggressiveness of other martial arts. They are learning to protect themselves without hurting others. They can sit calmly. Their confidence has grown. The community at NOLA Aikido is warm and welcoming. I am grateful we found this dojo.
Duff Swan
Jun 02, 2015
Report
