About
What is Aikido?
Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art founded by one of Japan’s greatest martial artists, Morihei Ueshiba (Ō Sensei), primarily in late 1920s through the 1940s as a synthesis of many of the older martial arts he had mastered. His focus was on the expression of a philosophy of universal peace and reconciliation. Aikido is often translated as “the way of harmonious spirit” and, according to the Founder, its primary goal is to focus on victory over one’s self, rather than cultivating violence or aggression.
Aikido is a dynamic and fluid martial art, that uses precise movements and body placements to use your partners force to generate a throw, pin or submission. Anyone of any age, size or athletic ability is able to benefit from training. These benefits include discipline, self-defense, mindfulness, respect, community, physical coordination and improved physical and mental health. While Aikido can be studied in a very martial and athletic manner, people can also practice at a safe pace for their own capacities. Everyone practices together in a non-competitive and focused environment.
Meet the Students
About the Dojo
Wickwood Aikido Dojo was founded by its chief instructor Andrew D’Angelo Sensei in 2017, at a local LGBTQIA+ community center on the border of Ridegwood, Queens and Bushwick, Brooklyn—hence the name “Wickwood”. It is currently located within Green Fitness Studio in Bushwick, Brooklyn. The dojo is committed to building a community with an all-inclusive environment for everyone of all levels of experience, age, orientation and walk of life. Classes are meant to push people’s mental and physical capacities while staying safe, developing traditional martial arts skills and principles, and learning how to put those principles to use in everyday life. D’Angelo Sensei is dedicated to providing a program focusing on technical excellence and, with a background in Zen alongside his martial arts training, offers the opportunity to look at Aikido practice as a method for training the mind in conjunction with the body. Classes include empty hand Aikido practice, along with Bokken (wooden sword) and Jo (short staff) training.
“D’Angelo Sensei is talented, dedicated, and thoughtful. He has high expectations of his students and training partners. I have learned a lot from him and continue to do so every time we train together.”
— Zach Biesanz
“D’Angelo Sensei is an extremely generous teacher and his passion for Aikido brightens the dojo. Since my first day at the dojo, he has helped me improve with thoughtful and incisive feedback. His technique is always beautifully executed and I’ve learned a lot from watching him. His students are kind and helpful, and I always feel challenged to push myself and keep improving. I am really thankful to have found such a great place to practice.”
- Saki Sato