History
Framingham Aikikai was established by David Halprin and Barbara Britton, two long time students of Kanai Sensei. It began at 61 Fountain Street in Framingham, then moved to Natick Center in March 2018. Hundreds of students have trained here, and it has hosted seminars given by many high-ranking Aikido instructors. In addition to daily classes at the dojo, Framingham Aikikai has worked with other organizations to extend the opportunity of Aikido practice to a wider audience, for example the Town of Framingham and Wellesley Recreation Departments. It is a member of the Shin Kaze Aikido Alliance.
Specialties
Framingham Aikikai is a traditional Aikido dojo. Aikido is a martial art for adults and children that is practiced cooperatively in a fun and safe environment. It allows students to blend with an attack and neutralize it without using brute force. Aikido has no competitions or tournaments. Instead, students practice cooperatively, alternating roles of attacker and defender in order to master its complex techniques. This helps students improve concentration, awareness, and self confidence while getting fit and having fun. Framingham Aikikai offers introductory classes, daily practices for adults, and youth classes. Classes are being offered virtually during the coronavirus pandemic. The Chief Instructor, David Halprin 7th dan, is a student of Mitsunari Kanai Sensei, 8th dan.