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 Aikido? Here’s what most people want to know before getting started.
Is Aikido good for complete beginners?
Yes. Many students come to Aikido of Park Slope with little or no martial arts experience. You do not need to be especially flexible, athletic, or know how to fall or roll before starting. We introduce everything gradually and help you get comfortable on the mat at your own pace.
Do you offer a free trial class?
Yes. Your first class is free. We offer free trial classes for adults, teens, and kids, and no prior martial arts experience is required. We will help you choose a good first class and make sure you know what to expect before you arrive.
How much do Aikido classes cost?
Adult membership is $175 per month and includes unlimited adult Aikido classes. New students age 16 and up can begin with a free trial class and then try their first month for $50. Reduced rates are available for students, young adults, and additional household members. Kids and teens have separate program pricing.
View Fees & Membership Options →
What is Aikido, and can it be used for self-defense?
Aikido is a Japanese martial art focused on balance, awareness, movement, and redirecting force. Training develops practical self-defense skills by teaching students to stay centered under pressure, move effectively, protect themselves, and respond without relying primarily on size or brute strength. Aikido is non-competitive and does not use sparring.
Do you offer martial arts classes for adults, teens, and kids?
Yes. Aikido of Park Slope offers classes for adults, teens, and children, with age-appropriate training for every level of experience. Our programs emphasize confidence, discipline, respect, safety, focus, and learning how to work cooperatively with others.
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 transit hub (2, 3, 4, 5, B, Q, D, N, R, W). The F and G trains at Smith-9th Streets are nearby as well.
We serve students from Park Slope, Gowanus, Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill, Prospect Heights, and neighborhoods throughout Brooklyn.