Northcoast Aikido was founded in 1977 by J. Thomas Read Sensei with formal sanction from Master Michio Hikitsuchi, Read Sensei’s primary teacher during the years he trained in Japan. Since its opening, Northcoast Aikido has gained a reputation as one of the oldest, one of the best, and one of the most unorthodox, Aikido dojos in the country. Read Sensei has always been committed to providing an environment dedicated to the study of the art of Aikido as it was taught to him. In doing so he has been widely recognized for his ability to teach Aikido technique in a concise, clear, and powerful way.
We welcome sincere students of any race, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or ethnic background. We believe that, due to its nature, Aikido is accessible to people of all ages and body types. Aikido practice is empowering, good exercise, fun, and inspiring for everyone - ages 6 & up. Visitors are always welcome.
On November 29th, 2023, Dojo Founder and Chief Instructor John Thomas Read formally passed the position of Chief Instructor and Dojo Cho to Robert Ekholdt, 8th dan Aikido, 8th dan Aikibojitsu.
Tom Read Sensei demonstrates phase-lead and exponential progression in freestyle training at Northcoast Aikido, 1983. Uke: Doug Knox Sensei