Aikido Daiwa

Aikido Daiwa has been a cornerstone of martial arts education in Burbank and the greater Los Angeles area since 1979. Founded by Jack Arnold, a dedicated practitioner with decades of experience in judo, jiu-jitsu, and aikido, our dojo has trained generations of students in the principles of this modern Japanese martial art. Our chief instructor, John Brinsley, brings over 20 years of direct training under the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, holding the rank of 6th Dan. We are proud to be a member of Birankai North America, an organization recognized by the Hombu Dojo in Japan for maintaining rigorous standards of instruction. Our philosophy emphasizes non-competitiveness, focusing instead on harmonizing with an opponent's energy through throws, joint locks, and pins.

Students develop physical strength, flexibility, and balance alongside mental discipline, awareness, and confidence. The dojo provides structured programs for all ages, from young children to adults, with flexible membership options and a welcoming environment. We offer free introductory lessons for new students to experience our approach firsthand. Safety remains our top priority, with techniques designed to neutralize aggression rather than escalate conflict. Our youth program specifically fosters social development through peer interaction in a supportive setting. With over four decades of continuous operation, we remain committed to preserving the authentic practice of aikido while making it accessible to contemporary practitioners.