Aikido of Gainesville, Inc.

"Aikido of Gainesville's Sensei Tom Huffman trained in Japan for six years under the legendary Morihiro Saito Sensei. Now he teaches Iwama and Nishio Styles of Aikido here in Gainesville, FL. Whether you like his style or not, you will find no one more dedicated to the art. He teaches children or adults alike with minute attention to detail and takes time to explain the meaning of Japanese terms used in Aikido. If the class is small, Sensei Tom will give the neophyte personal attention to show and explain exactly how a technique works with minimal effort and maximum effect. He also offers classes in Iaido, the art of drawing the katana. Gainesville residents have this incredible resource at their doorstep like few other communities can boast. Unlike other fighting arts like karate or taekwondo, injuries are uncommon in Aikido where its principles of compassion are applied in practice so no one gets hurt. I have been training with Sensei Tom Huffman since 2016 after previously training for years in Michigan, California and Germany starting from the 1970s, so I am no stranger to Aikido. Now in my seventies, I attribute my fitness in no small part to my weekly practice of Aikido under Sensei Tom Huffman, who deserves kudos for preserving and transmitting this profound art to anyone who is willing to put forth the effort to learn it."

"Tom, the instructor, has a bad temper. I studied under him when I was younger. He snapped at me and put his hands on me inappropriately multiple times when he got angry. Beware if you have kids."

"Very personalized instruction from a black belt who recieved his certifications from native masters in Japan. In addition to Aikido (both empty hand and weapons), instruction is available in Iaido, the art of drawing and using the katana sword. Basic self defense classes are also taught for both adults and children. I have learned a lot here, both about Iaido itself, and how studying this ancient art teaches lessons beyond the sword itself. Highly recommended."

"We worked with Aikido of Gainesville to host a "Women's Self Defense" workshop. It went amazing! The staff was very knowledgable and everyone had a great time~ Hope to plan another one soon!"

"Me and my 12 year old daughter Cailey attended our first class tonight to learn Aikido,.. and we LOVED it! I took my daughter to her first class tonight in hopes that it would be just what she needed to regain her confidence, learn self defense, and find her inner strength thru this art of peace. What I didn't expect was that I would join in and find the same thing! We both tend to be shy and anxious, but felt right at home with the wonderful Sensei, Mr. Huffman and the rest of the classmates and instructors. Mr. Keith, one of the instructors, explained all the class options clearly and really helped us understand what is all possible through Aikido. Great class, friendly people, free and affordable classes, and a in perfect location! We both learned so much in just one class and can't wait for the next one. I would highly recommend that anyone (adult or child) try Aikido of Gainesville, Inc you may find exactly what you feel you are missing right there in that Dojo! Thank you for bringing Aikido to this area.. I feel that it is (and will be) a blessing for so many people! ♡"