Aikido shares a common heritage with Judo and Jujitsu. However Aikido emphasizes internal development of ki (internal energy) over physical techniquesómany of which are in fact derived from Jujitsu. By eliminating the concepts of winning and losing, we develop a relationship based in co-operation rather than competition. While both training styles have inherent benefits, Aikido tends to appeal to those who prefer softer arts such as Tíai Chi and Chi Gung, Yoga, meditation, etc.

Grounded in non-violence, Aikido is the practice of meeting conflict with conscious choice through the development of tools to journey a middle way, between fight and flight, where attacker and defender move together as one cohesive whole, transcending the need for a winner or loser. We focus on basic technique, weapon work, ki development, and mind-body coordination in order to discover ways to unify ourselves with our adversaries, physical or otherwise, thereby dissolving conflict at its root.

About our School

Kaikihara Aikido is a satellite dojo of Berkshire Hills-ryu Aikido under founder Ron Ragusa Sensei. ìKaikiharaî is a translation of ìthe continuous and returning centerî which is a central tenet of Berkshire Hills-ryu. ìAikidoî, often translated as ìthe art of peaceî, literally means ìthe way of harmonious energyî.

Instructor Simon Burke-Lipiczky has been practicing and teaching Aikido for over a decade. He is a certified instructor of Berkshire Hills-ryu Aikido and holds a second-degree black belt.