Shindai Aikikai Aikido Dojo

It is with great sadness that we note the passing of a great friend to Shindai Dojo. Dale Mathews Sensei, who has been the head of Orlando Judo training at Shindai these many decades, passed away yesterday afternoon. He will be greatly missed. With the permission of his students a small memorial will join four other Sensei from Shindai seated in our Kamiza, their spirit monitoring the training in our Dojo.

Rest in peace, Dale Sensei. 

We are very honored to once again have the honor of hosting Long Sensei at Shindai Dojo. Not only is his knowledge of the sword and the martial arts encyclopedic, he is a true gentleman as well.

It is with great sorrow that we note the passing of a long time friend. Dan has brought a sense of family and joy to so many years of seminars and training. He will be missed by so many.

I can see that singular smile of his as he crosses the bridge his hand extended to receive his wife" waiting embrace. Together again. RIP my friend.

We begin the journey today.

Many comparisons have been made between the child at birth as it learns life's balance, land a return to that as we age. Body shape, speed, need, all revert. The martial path takes a similar path. Even for those who have not trained it is the same in that we do not loose what we have learned, but how/what we have to do to maintain control must constantly be adjusted. Balance, movement, stability assistance, growing strength in mind and body, an appreciation of the simple things. That is what this is about.

Join us. It is never too late, until it is.

We start again tomorrow. In February this will transition to a set 6 week course.

Speaking about 2026 life resolutions, we understand that Aikido is not within everyone's wheel house. Shindai is utilizing our space and time for the benefit of our community. After years of people wondering why we don't use our facility for yoga, we have found something remarkable. Ashtanga Yoga will now be found at the Shindai Dojo. If you thing you understand the body and breathing you have got to experience this.

Enough said.....

Shindai is here all through the coming year. Stop in and visit. Train.

One month free and you get to meet me. 😊

If not, try to have a great New Year anyway.

I would like to thank all of our Aikido friends. Those who have visited to teach and share their Aikido ... Thank You! Those who have come to train and visit, sharing their trust and interest ... Thank You.

In 2026 we will continue on our path of study. Supporting the teachings of 'Sensei, the mission of Aikido, the standards and wisdom gifted to us by Saotome Shihan, the legacy of our founder, and Spirit of Shindai. In that, EVERYONE is welcome at Shindai.

May the holidays in all they richness and potential meet you expectations.

Shindai Aikido Dojo Wishes all of you a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. May you be embraced by family, friends, and your dojo brethren at a table of plenty on this Thanksgiving and on into a new year. Train hard, find peace, grow in Aiki.

There is only one Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan. You have seen it on our website, noted it on the ASU event calendar, and now it is mere days away. I don't know about you, but this is always a favorite every year.

Don't forget the Chili competition Saturday evening! Contact me if you are an undiscovered Chili god and want to compete.

We hope to see you soon. All Aikido organizations and affiliations are welcome.