Framingham Aikikai

Specialties

Framingham Aikikai is a traditional Aikido dojo, founded in January 2000.

Aikido is a traditional 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.

The Chief Instructor, David Halprin 7^th dan, is a student of Mitsunari Kanai Sensei, 8^th dan, and studied with him for twenty-​seven years. Aikido is a great way to improve your strength of body and mind. We look forward to seeing you soon.

History

Established in 2000.

Framingham Aikikai was established by David Halprin and Barbara Britton, two long time students of Kanai Sensei.

It has been at 61 Fountain Street in Framingham for its entire history. During this time, hundreds of students have trained here, it it has been the venue for seminars given by many high-​ranking Aikido instructors.

It is designed to be a traditional Aikido dojo, and it’s authentic and tranquil ambiance is striking to all who visit.

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.

David Halprin is a 6^th degree black belt and was awarded a Shihan rank by Aikido World Headquarters in Japan. The Shihan rank is the highest teaching rank possible.

Barbara Britton is also 6^th degree black belt, was awarded a Shidoin teaching certificate, and is a Director of t

Meet the Business Owner

David H.

Business Owner

David Halprin, Chief Instructor, is a 6^th degree black belt and was awarded a Shihan rank by Aikido World Headquarters in Japan. The Shihan rank is the highest teaching rank possible. He was a student of Kanai Sensei for 27 years and has practiced and taught Aikido through the United States, Canada, South America, Europe and Japan.

Barbara Britton is also 6^th degree black belt, holds a Shidoin teaching certificate, and is a Director of the US Aikido Federation. She was a student of Kanai Sensei for 26 years and is one of the most senior woman Aikido teachers in the United States.