Aikido of Charlotte Reviews

Aikido of Charlotte has the 3 key elements that define a Superior Dojo - The most senior, certified instructors, an amazing facility with the largest mat around, and a supportive community (in every sense) of practitioners. I am very fortunate to have found Aikido of Charlotte.

I took a self-defense class and it was awesome. I learned so much about staying aware and how to handle different situations. The instructor, the team, and everyone there were super nice and made me feel really comfortable. I definitely recommend it—especially for women. If you get the chance to take it, do it!

I went to the 2 hr self defense class and loved it. Jonathan is a great teacher, I learned a lot and enjoyed working with the other students and teachers. It is a very warm and inviting atmosphere . At the end, Jonathan and the other black belts did an Aikido demo that was really cool to watch. I highly recommend this class.

I've been fortunate enough to study at Aikido of Charlotte both when Sensei Dennis Main taught there and since Weiner Sensei took over after Main Sensei's unfortunate passing. The dojo was a wonderful place then and still is today. I only returned several months ago but I was immediately impressed at the continuing technical skill and traditional etiquette employed by Weiner Sensei and the assistant instructors. Every year each student is asked what their particular goals are and then plans are made to achieve them so there's an added personal touch to the training. Whether it be self-defense, spirituality, or just physical exercise each student's goals are considered. Moreover, the curriculum has been expanded over the years to include not just the direct Aikido lineage of Main Sensei but also elements from other Aikido styles. This gives the Aikido practitioner a more holistic view of the martial art that is not present in most dojos. Finally, the atmosphere is very welcoming. Classes are conducted with a positive energy and a tolerant attitude. So if someone wants to learn authentic, practical Aikido with a group that sincerely cares about the art and each other I can think of few places that fit better than Aikido of Charlotte.

I joined AOC a few months ago after relocating to the area and have felt welcomed by everyone here. All the students at AOC are dedicated to their art, and take both training and etiquette seriously. They treat each other with respect, and support and encourage one another. The instructors are knowledgeable and patient, and push students to reach their fullest potential. I'm grateful to be a part of this dojo, and I look forward to continuing my training here!

It has been a delight training at Aikido of Charlotte. The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, and attentive to all students. The philosophy of Aikido is apparent in how they conduct their classes. The senior students are encouraging and want to help beginners grow. The facility is in great condition and lovely.

I’ve been training at Aikido of Charlotte for years and love it! The instructors are extremely experienced - they make learning and training fun and rewarding. Best culture - everyone really cares about learning, performing proper etiquette, and taking care of the dojo. Great people, great place, great martial art!

My daughter and I took several private self-defense classes with Sensei Jonanthan. He was very accommodating with our challenging schedules, and was professional and helpful. He was a very patient instructor, and was responsive to what both my daughter and I wanted to learn and review in each class. We left the classes feeling that we had learned valuable skills!

I attended a self defense class led by Weiner Sensei and assisted by his senior student Tasha earlier this month. From the start of the class Weiner Sensei was engaging, patient, and encouraging. He asked what we wanted to learn in the class and addressed any questions or concerns that came up. He described, demonstrated, and had us practice multiple scenarios that we might find ourselves in every day. I left feeling empowered by the skills I learned. I highly recommend this class for anyone, regardless of their age or background. Thank you Weiner Sensei, Tasha, and Aikido of Charlotte!

Awesome class!! Fun to take with a group of friends! Lots of great information and practice! I will be taking other self defense classes from here to keep up the practice.

Had been interested in picking up a martial art for a while when I ran into Aikido of Charlotte. I chose the perfect place to begin my Aikido journey! Weiner Sensei and all other instructors are great teachers. Dojo members are all incredibly friendly and made me feel at home right away.

I've trained Aikido since 1995 and have visited dojos all around the world. Aikido of Charlotte is absolutely world class in leadership, instruction, and facilities. The atmosphere is one of encouragement and sincerity where everyone is dedicated to the art and are most kind to one another. I consider myself lucky to have found a new home dojo.

Aikido of Charlotte is fantastic! Weiner Sensei, all other instructors, and fellow students are incredibly friendly and supportive. Classes are engaging and are adapted for every skill level. It’s the ideal place for anyone looking to learn Aikido in a welcoming environment.

Great dojo (place) to train. Sensei Weiner is an excellent teacher and the students are a great group of people. I moved here a few years ago to Huntersville and I am glad that I am at AOC!!

I just recently moved here and was looking for a dojo to practice in and found Aikido of Charlotte and although my Aikido journey has been with a different organization they welcomed me in. Honoring the rank that I had already achieved Sensei is an excellent and patient teacher, the rest of the members of the dojo are warm welcoming and helpful and it is a very efficiently run dojo.

Having an interest in learning a martial art I did not want one where there is joy in pulverizing one another. I attended the Aikido of Charlotte Kagami Biraki (New Year) on January 7th, 2023. Upon arriving I was greeted and made to feel welcome. I observed the full events of the day starting with 1,000 cuts to individuals testing for their next rank. The support and overall respect each member has for one another to succeed in their practice and self-improvement was clear and one of many reasons why the decision was clear to start my own journey the very next day with my first class as a student.

This dojo is like a family. I fit right in with the people after my initial review and I can’t say enough good things about the Sensei. Everyone is patient with you and helps you learn the basics without judgement. I recommend Aikido of Charlotte to everyone.

Great instructors. Great atmosphere. Great Dojo. Everyone friendly. Instructors are really good at teaching and eager to make sure you get what they are teaching. Highly recommend this Dojo!!!!

Great place for self-defense class for all ages for women and even men.