Aikido Of Austin
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Aikido Of Austin
Aikido of Austin is a traditional dojo that provides martial arts instruction for students of all ages. Aikido is a classical Japanese martial art expressed as a comprehensive system of throwing and pinning techniques to engage with attacks safely and efficiently. Students training with us gain experience in self-defense, concentration, discipline, and self-confidence.

Established in 1984, Aikido of Austin is the longest-serving aikido dojo in Austin. The Chief Instructor, Josef Birdsong (6th Dan, Shihan), has been practicing aikido since 1970. AOA is a member of the Shin Kaze Aikido Alliance (SKAA). Located at 5555 North Lamar (#C116) in central Austin, we offer multiple classes a day, seven days a week, including children's classes Saturday and Sunday.
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Worldwide, Aikido has an energetic community of female practitioners originating with the development of the martial art by Morihei Ueshiba in the early 1900s. Unlike many martial arts, Aikido is grounded in empathy and compassion. It gives us real-world options to de-escalate life's confrontations.
Reviews (7)
Rachel G.
Rachel G.
Aug 09, 2020
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I over all didn't have a terrible experience. I do reccomend that having someone training MMA needs to be kept away from ACC students and women even if he is also an ACC student. It's not necessary to get bruises from your opponent. I was bruised badly and one of my friends took a hit from him that made her bite her tongue and painfully compress an impacted wisdom tooth. That is crap calling injury monkey bites. The sob needs his head stuck through the sheet rock. Aikido was interesting but I witnessed the instructor in a hateful act when a former student stopped by. If you get injured
Daniel P.
Daniel P.
Jul 10, 2020
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Former member for about a year. It was my first time taking martial arts. I would recommend to adults who have at least 3 out of 4: previous experience in martial arts, available 4+ times per week, are in decent shape and are quick learners.

It wasn't for me but don't let that discourage you if you're interested.

The mixed skill level classes are sometimes overwhelming depending on the instructor. Some pull the newbies to the side to practice basics and others expect you to keep up.

I would rate myself as below average skill overall but I showed up early to every class to get
Joshua B.
Joshua B.
Apr 25, 2019
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I've been practicing for 2-3 years at this dojo. I've had experience at a half dozen others, and this one is wonderful. The lead instructor is accessible and a great teacher. The senior students are welcoming. A previous instructor used to say that the dojo is not the place it's the people. The AoA community is kind, fun, and laid back.
Matthew Bradford Hank & Tank
Matthew Bradford Hank & Tank
Dec 20, 2017
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Our son started at Aikido of Austin when he was 5 and it has been an awesome, awesome experience for him (and us). The instructors have been so patient with his energy levels and they have worked super hard to guide him at his pace. I couldn't recommend them more!
Jon P.
Jon P.
Mar 31, 2014
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My kids really enjoyed summer camp at Aikido of Austin last summer. I have two boys who were 6 and 8 at the time and they attended one of the week long day camps led by Aaron Poteet and other senior instructors from Aikido of Austin.

They enjoyed learning about Aikido and it really wore them out! Aaron and his associates are patient and great with the kids. My boys made some new friends at the camp and also were exposed to interesting aspects of Japanese culture, such as origami, calligraphy, the art of making sushi, and the Japanese language.
If the camp fits in this year's schedule
Marina Sencalar
Marina Sencalar
Nov 03, 2013
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Best place if you like akido. Joe Birdsong is a cool teacher if your taking a class throught ACC. Best class to take if you want to learn martial arts.
Robert A.
Robert A.
Apr 07, 2011
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I started at this dojo to take up Aikido, had some interesting experiences. I first looked at there website to get information about this location. Going on the info I found there I next went to watch a class. The senior student that spoke to me was very courteous and explained a little about the class and how it works. The following week I called back during class hours as the website stated, no one was returning my calls; I left messages with every call. I wanted to join but no one would contact me. I finally decide to show up again since this was my only option. Finally spoke to a different