Naka Ima Aikido

Specialties

Naka Ima provides Aikido martial arts classes for children and adults.

Aikido is an exciting and dynamic martial arts practice where the focus is on effectively blending with your partner’s energy in a nonconfrontational

way.

At Naka Ima, we work on developing the physical body through vigorous flowing practice as well as on calming the inner self through breathing and continued focus on one’s centre. The immediate benefits include stress relief and an increase in flexibility, stamina and strength.

History

Established in 2004.

Naka Ima Aikikai was informally founded back in December 2003, when Greg Angus returned to Japan to visit his teacher, Endo Shihan, at his dojo in Saku for «O Shogatsu» (New Year celebration). During this visit, Greg asked Endo Shihan, and was given permission, to open a new dojo in Canada.

Once back in Toronto, Greg, along with Ramin Arvin and other members of the local Aikido community, officially launched Naka Ima Aikikai. The Aikido dojo’s first location in Etobicoke opened in 2004, offering beginner and advanced classes to both adults and children starting from 5 years old. Naka Ima has also hosted an annual seminar with Endo Shihan, with participants coming from all over world.

Effective April 2012, Naka Ima is moving to its new location in Toronto at 1643 Dufferin St. (just south of St. Clair).

Meet the Business Owner

Sensei Greg A.

Business Owner

Sensei Greg Angus is a godan (5^th-​degree black belt) and chief instructor at Naka Ima Aikikai. Greg has practised martial arts for over 30 years and is also a yondan (4^th-​degree black belt) in karate. At 13, he began training in Karate, a discipline he pursued throughout his high school and university years. In 1986, upon completing his graduate degree in Fine Arts, Greg travelled to Japan to further his Karate studies. Once there, Greg encountered Aikido and immediately began his practice at the Hombu Dojo in Tokyo. His Aikido training continued throughout his 10 years in Japan, primarily under the direction of Endo Shihan.

Greg is the head instructor of the Naka Ima Aikikai dojo and an active participant in the Aikido community of Toronto. Off the mat, Greg works as an artist whose paintings have been exhibited both locally and internationally.