Jiai Aikido

Jiai was founded in 2004 by Jeff Sodeman Sensei after encouragement from Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan, and is a landmark for SoCal community aikido, and personal growth through martial arts.

Head Instructors are Senseis: Nikki Lewis, Van Hillier & Dojo Cho Cat Strada.

Senior students and guest instructors also contribute regularly, giving our members exposure to a variety of different work & experienced perspectives. Students learn applicable self defense, in addition to the universal foundations & principles of aikido. They are also encouraged to experiment and evolve their work as desired.

We were home to Hiroshi Ikeda Sensei's first International Aikido Bridge Friendship Seminar, which we continue to host annually. Many other aikido & other events are also hosted here regularly, including those from San Diego Systema who also shares our facility.

Our diverse & relaxed community makes a comfortable atmosphere for the beginner, while the training and 4,000sqft dojo appeals to the most advanced aikidoka.

Please come visit or train with us sometime. Jiai is non-discriminatory, and all people are welcome regardless of experience, rank or affiliation.