Aikido of South Florida

Aikido of South Florida may be considered unique for many reasons. Their training not only focuses on strength, flexibility, and agility; but also on the way the brain processes the techniques and movements themselves. Their style of training requires full concentration. I find this aspect of the Art very appealing because the benefits extend beyond the Dojo to improve everyday performance. \r \r Their teaching also puts emphasis on both defending oneself from multiple attackers, as well as proper use of weapons. These two approaches strongly serve to develop core concepts, as well as improve coordination and awareness. The training at Aikido of South Florida Dojo is very high energy, and the expectation is nothing but perfection. The implementation of their instruction brings a level of intensity that mimics the atmosphere of a real fight. This type of training enables the student to learn how to perform in a real life situation, under high levels of pressure. \r \r Aikido of South Florida also offers a strong sense of personalized instruction. Their methodology ensures every technique is executed with the utmost precision, while simultaneously maximizing its effectiveness. The one-on-one attention is rendered all the more valuable considering the extensive experience of the owner and instructor, Sensei Stephanie Yap. Her instruction yields a profound knowledge and understanding Aikido principles I find quite unique to her specifically. In my years of martial arts practice, I have yet to find a Sensei that challenges me to the extent that she does.\r \r Over all the Dojo is kept exceptionally clean. It appears organized one hundred percent of the time, from entrance to bathrooms and private showers; as a side note, I find the latter to be extremely useful when commuting directly to work. From day one my experience with the other students has been very positive. The friendly atmosphere promotes an environment where all students, both new and experienced, may mutually benefit.\r \r All in all, Aikido of South Florida offers an excellent combination of body conditioning; a clean, safe environment; a foundation of traditional roots; lots of personalized attention; and a strong focus on proper technique. The Dojo facilitates fast learning and a deep understanding of the art. I highly recommend anyone interested to come see for themselves. \r more

I have always been attracted by the beauty of Aikido and I consider myself fortunate to learn this impressive art from Stephanie Yap Sensei at Aikido of South Florida. I believe it is extremely important to practice the founding techniques of Aikido correctly within an unbiased environment and Sensei Yap's dedication and power to touch student's hearts through the eloquence of her teaching is very inspiring.\r \r Beyond the high quality of instruction from Sensei Stephanie Yap, the camaraderie among students in the dojo also creates an even more powerful sense of confidence and enhances positive thinking, which all have positively benefited the unavoidable instabilities of day to day life. I warmly recommend this unique traditional school for all those who are willing to learn and practice the exceptional art of Aikido and enjoy the rewarding results of their passion and dedication. more

Sensei Stephanie Yap constantly exceeds my very high-demanding expectations. She is not only an outstanding instructor in Aikido, but teaches my children extremely important traditional values. Honor, respect, work ethics, among many others. Immediately after visiting the Dojo, people realize that this school is not about money, not about business, but to truly share this amazing traditional martial art. Having spent many years practicing martial marts myself, it was very easy for me to evaluate a school, not only based on the techniques and style, but the whole philosophy and approach to teaching. It was NOT easy though to find the right school for my children... After MONTHS of researching, visiting and evaluating many many schools from Kendall to Boca Raton, I concluded that the best option for my kids was Aikido of South Florida. I consider myself very fortunate to have found a TRUE 6th DEGREE BLACK BELT in Aikido, fully accredited by the most reputable Aikido organization in the world. She is not only amazing with open hand, self defense techniques, but extremely proficient with weapons as well. If you are looking for a school that will not only teach your children (or adults) one of the greatest self defense martial arts systems, but values, discipline and ethics, in a no-nonsense positive environment, you found the right place. more

I'm currently a student at Aikido of South Florida. I have attended a few martial arts schools including aikido and I would definitely say it's the best martial arts school in the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale area. It is also the most traditional school. If you really want a school where you can master the ins and outs of aikido then this is it. Yap Sensei can sometimes be very strict in her training but this is because she gives great importance to mastering the basics and being able to perform the techniques perfectly on a fundamental level first before moving on to more advanced levels. I was never able to find this level of attention to detail in an instructor in any of the dojos I've attended before. Most other instructors will give you a few corrections here or there but then will accept your technique even if the basics aren't fully correct yet. Frankly, I don't think this type of training is for everyone. I've seen students leave the dojo after only one week because they're not used to this type of training, and I admit sometimes it can be very daunting both physically and mentally. However, if you do have the will to truly learn and can keep up with the training then this is the school you want to attend. more

I have two sons and both have attended Aikido of South Florida for almost 4 years. They have participated in Summer & Winter camps and they also train during the year. The dojo environment has been amazing for building their character, focus, discipline & sense of belonging. As boys, they have so much energy that is best channeled in an environment where they have organized, physical activity.\r Training under Sensei Stephanie Yap is a once in a lifetime experience that has helped them increase their focus, learn new skills & working well with others. The training they receive is unique because the focus is not on violence or fighting but on self-defense & restoring the peace in any situation. Being responsible and doing the right thing is also a focus.\r There are so many great mentors at the dojo. We are so happy to be a part of the Aikido South Florida Family. We look forward to many more years of training. The boys have enjoyed learning conversational Japanese as well as learning culture & practicing new mediums of art.\r There are so many good things to say! If you are considering Japanese martial arts, this is the place to attend in South Florida.\r \r Michelle Edmonds & Eddie Garcia\r Proud parents Of Marlo & Dylan Garcia\r more

Walking into Aikido South Florida for the first time was quite an experience. The dojo has an expansive, spacious feeling with a distinct Japanese d more

I am a member of Aikido of South Florida and can sincerely state that it has been the best learning experience and decision I have ever made for myself. It has proven to be the most valuable tool in my life?s progression thus far as I have learned so much about myself through my practice. Prior to joining the dojo, my understanding of any martial art was bound by frequent trips to Hollywood blockbuster films. So, like most people, I had envisioned many scenarios of what it would like to enter a dojo. As I recall, Sensei Stephanie Yap required two classes watched before registration. This is so we can get a realistic impression of Aikido lessons, what to expect and what is expected from her members. Upon observing the first class, I found an instant admiration for the high quality of respect shared by so many people for the dojo, Sensei and the art of aikido. I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of this environment. I have found that through my time spent on the mat training and how the members are all responsible for taking care of the dojo, my respect has now extended to friendship with all students of Aikido of South Florida. Through the physical and mental hardships of my training, I find that it has helped me tremendously in my daily life as it has heightened my confidence level and honed my concentration. I have found far more inner strength than I thought existed. Still, there is so much more to learn. I am so fortunate to have found such a traditional school with a vigilant and insightful Sensei. Sensei Stephanie Yap is a dedicated instructor with an enormous amount of experience and technical skill and has a great passion for the art. She and the other members of the dojo are always willing to help anyone wanting clarification after classes. Sensei says that as long as we stay sincere in our trainings we will always improve, and I look forward to growing and improving! Jason R more

I had always wanted to pratice AIKIDO, ever since I saw a demonstration in California, but I never had the chance to do so, I have practiced Kung fu, Tae Kwon do Pros: Dedicated Instructor, a disciplined dojo, great atmosphere more

Joining Aikido of South Florida three years ago has been the best physical activity experience in my life. When I started, I had never done any martial arts and really did not know what to expect. I was not very coordinated, so learning at the beginning was very tough. But lucky for me, I found a place with a Sensei (Stephanie Yap) that just never has given up on me and would not take an ?I am not coordinated? or ?my body cannot do that? excuses. By training regularly, I have much improved my flexibility, focus, strength, patience and learning skills. I use what I have learned not only on the mat, but in my everyday life. On top of it all, I have gained a wonderful group of friends with a one of a kind martial artist mentality. more

I have been a practitioner of Aikido for about 6 years, on and off. I have also trained in Krav-maga and I was a wrestler during my junior high and high school years. Pros: large training space, great location, 6 classes per week! more

The Aikido of South Florida dojo is an excellent school to learn the traditional Japanese martial art of Aikido. The dojo environment is disciplined yet very friendly and outgoing. They are always open to newcomers regardless of skill level, size, or strength. It is like a second home where the instructor and students are always willing to stay after class and assist you with your techniques. Sensei Stephanie Yap is extremely knowledgeable and an excellent instructor. It is amazing to watch and learn from such a skilled aikidoist. Aikido is not only a great martial art for self defense, it is also a good way to get exercise, lose weight, reduce stress, and improve your mental focus and clarity. If you are looking for a traditional martial art that instills discipline, camaraderie, excellent hand to hand and weapons training, then the Aikido of South Florida dojo is for you. I would highly recommend this school. more

It?s not enough to know the type of martial arts and to have the guts to actually learn it. You have to do your research ?coz enrolling in a school can either make or break you. I believe I chose the right Aikido school. Based from my inquiry and observation of the classes before joining, as well as my first-hand experience with Sensei Stephanie and the sempai (higher belters), I can attest that they really know their craft. What?s unique about the school is that I not only learn the open hand techniques (what Aikido is known for) but also the weapon techniques. I didn?t even know that Aikido uses weapons before this. Thus, I got more than I bargained for! What?s more, the atmosphere in the dojo is very welcoming. It?s a fusion of different cultures with people from different walks of life yet sharing that bond known as Aikido. We also get to hang-out after classes. Sometimes have parties at the dojo, so it?s like having an extended family. Which I think is so cool!! Pros: traditional, good camaraderie Cons: if you don't want to learn and have self-discipline more

Aikido of South Florida is the most inherently traditional school of the art in Florida. It's comforting to know that proponents of other schools who will denigrate other establishments in order to promote themselves can hardly spell or properly structure a sentence. Pros: Traditional more

I am sorry for students.But This is not good at all. more

I went to this school but very bad place. more