MARTIAL ARTS & SELF-DEFENSE IN BROOKLYN
Welcome to
Aikido of
Park Slope
Brooklyn's oldest and largest Aikido dojo, serving the community since 1981. Train in a supportive, non-competitive martial art led by Hal Lehrman, 7th Dan Aikikai, Shihan, at our nonprofit dojo near the Union St R train. Whether you are an adult looking for self-defense, fitness, mindfulness, and community, or a parent looking for a safe program for your child, we will help you find the right place to start.
WHAT IS AIKIDO?
A martial art built on harmony, not force.
Aikido is a Japanese martial art focused on neutralizing attacks without relying on brute force. Instead of meeting aggression with more aggression, students learn to move, redirect, stay balanced, and respond with control.
Training builds practical self-defense skills, but it also develops strength, coordination, focus, and calm under pressure. Classes are active and physical, but non-competitive. You do not need martial arts experience to begin.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF SELF-DEFENSE
Empowering, not aggressive.
We are not about bruises, black eyes, or being tied into a sweaty pretzel. At Aikido of Park Slope, training is physical, focused, and empowering, but it is not a fight club.
In Aikido, you learn how to move under pressure, redirect force, protect yourself, and stay calm when things get tense. You will build strength, balance, coordination, and confidence without having to become someone aggressive.
That training happens inside a serious but welcoming dojo: Brooklyn's oldest and largest, led by Hal Lehrman, 7th Dan Aikikai, Shihan, and rooted in community since 1981.
GOOD TO KNOW
Questions, answered.
New to the mat? Here is what most people want to know before their first visit.
What's the best martial arts dojo in Brooklyn for beginners?
If you are looking for Aikido in Brooklyn, Aikido of Park Slope offers a rare combination of experience, accessibility, and community. APS is Brooklyn's oldest and largest Aikido dojo, serving the community since 1981, led by Hal Lehrman, 7th Dan Aikikai, Shihan, and built around beginner-friendly training for adults, kids, and teens.
What kind of martial art is Aikido?
Aikido is a nonviolent Japanese martial art focused on balance, awareness, and redirecting force. Students learn practical self-defense skills without competition, sparring, or aggression.
Do you offer self-defense classes in Brooklyn?
Yes. Aikido develops self-defense by teaching students how to stay centered, move effectively, avoid harm, and respond to physical threats without relying on brute strength.
Are your martial arts classes for kids, teens, and adults?
Yes. APS offers classes for adults, teens, and children, with age-appropriate training that emphasizes confidence, discipline, respect, safety, and focus.
Where is Aikido of Park Slope located?
We are located at 630 Sackett Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217, just steps from the Union St R station, and a short walk from the Atlantic Ave–Barclays Center hub (2, 3, 4, 5, B, Q, D, N, R, W). The F and G at Smith–9th Sts are nearby too.
Serving Park Slope, Gowanus, Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill, Prospect Heights, and the surrounding Brooklyn neighborhoods.