ARV was established in 1997 as a traditional Aikido Dojo, committed to teaching and promoting the martial art of Aikido as a way of life. Our Dojo is open seven days a week, offering classes for adults and children. We teach empty-hand Aikido, Aiki-weapons, and Zen meditation (eiryuji.com).
Aikido is a non-competitive martial art, based on the principle of merging with an attacker, redirecting the energy, and skillfully leading conflict to a peaceful resolution.Developing the ability to blend with an incoming force requires the cultivation of awareness, mind-body-spirit unification, and deep observation.
Aikido is a non-competitive martial art, based on the principle of merging with an attacker, redirecting the energy, and skillfully leading conflict to a peaceful resolution.Developing the ability to blend with an incoming force requires the cultivation of awareness, mind-body-spirit unification, and deep observation.
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Aikido is a Japanese martial art which was founded on the principles of harmony and non-resistance. It is a very effective way of self defense, which does not rely on size or physical strength. Ultimately it is the energy of theattack itself which brings down the attacker. Aikido gives us means by which to challenge and refine our self, to examine our weaknesses and to discover our potential.
Our center was established to provide a place for daily Zazen (meditation) practice and for the study of Zen Buddhism. We are a non-discriminating community, welcome and embrace anyone who is genuinely interested in learning more about the wisdom tradition of Zen. Our doors are open to beginners and experienced practitioners alike.
Senior instructor at the United States Aikido Federation (USAF) and InternationalAikido Federation (IAF). Vardi Sensei is a member of the teaching staff at the renowned headquarters of the USAF, New York Aikikai, where he also trains regularly under the direction of Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan, a direct student of O'Sensei, founder of Aikido.
As our most valuable resource, children deserve the best possible start to life. Now, through the Children's Program at Aikido of Ramapo Valley, your children can gain the important guidance and advantages that will prepare them to successfully traverse all of life's challenges. Because Aikido focuses on key fundamentals, such as self-discipline, concentration and harmony, your children will benefit from practice both on and off the mat.
Reviews (9)
Matthew Gampel
Oct 01, 2021
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ARV is a fantastic place to safely train martial arts I trained here for about 3 years and learned how to defend myself, move, and meditate which has helped me professionally and personally. They have top notch instructors that are experienced and will meet you wherever your skill level or age. Alot of students are very skilled aikidoka and are extremely patient/helpful as you learn these powerful techniques. I visit whenever I can.
Wes E.
Feb 06, 2021
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Wonderful dojo. Sensei is calm and incredibly patient w the kids. Other teachers especially Yvonne sensei have been equally amazing. Our son is one of the smaller kids in his school -- he gained confidence learning aikido that helps him stand tall w his peers. They also do a wonderful job creating a community.
Geoffrey Yee
Sep 22, 2018
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A good place to learn Aikido for all ages. I personally started around the age of 7, in 2006, and since then I have grown more in my learning of Aikido. I've practiced my way to first kyu, which is the rank before shodan (black belt). Since I started young, I went through the kids program first before transitioning to the adult class. Now there is also a teens class for those who are too old for the kids class, but are also uncomfortable with the adult class. Whether you are 6 or even 60, there is no too late to join mindset. Everyone of all ages can learn something here, and it is a good place
John Atti
Nov 24, 2017
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I really loved this place, and I'm upset that my schedule has stopped me from going back. The instructors are professional and welcoming. The community here was also extremely nice during my time there. If you are interested in picking up Aikido, practicing meditation, or meeting some really nice folks from the surrounding area, I would highly recommend sitting in on a lesson and giving this place a shot.
Ricardo Petroni
Nov 03, 2016
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A great location to practice Aikido. Sensei Vardi is a great teacher with a lot of experience and big commitment to all his students. The practice is open to all level of expertise and I regularly share the practice with people from 4th dan to beginners that just started. I also take my kid to the special kids classes which are offered twice a week. Overall, highly recommended.
Matt K.
Jun 23, 2016
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I have been attending this dojo for about 6 months now. I took my time and looked at other places but, ultimately decided on this one. I really like the variety and depth of instruction and the idea here that you have the ability to take your practice as far as you want. The students and instructors are a pleasure to work with and the schedule of classes is perfect around a day job. If you are interested in Aikido or meditation this place is top notch!
Ryan W.
May 03, 2016
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This is a great place to train with not only a very talented head instructor in the USAF but also with many amazing students of all ages. There are a great variety of assistant instructors as well that every time I go it is a great class. Everyone is so nice and willing to help their fellow students. New students can join at any time and mix right in with the other students. There is such a strong dedication to learning aikido and zen by all members of the dojo. I would recommend this dojo if you live in the area and are looking to learn aikido/zen or if you are visiting the area and looking
Alex T.
May 03, 2016
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Jeff B.
Apr 28, 2016
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