Aikido of Bismarck

Aug 2020

I have been a student several years now. The school is run with respect and the needs of the students in mind -- balanced with the commitment to promote excellent quality Aikido.Don't confuse Iwama Aikido with other forms. Iwama Aikido is a tough martial art to learn and extremely practical. I have studied various martial arts for over 20 years. I have also studied and have enrolled my kids at 2 other Bismarck and Mandan schools over the past 5 years. The best quality martial art for the money is to be found at Aikido Bismarck.

Apr 2015

The dojo is a very traditional school. They teach Iwama Aikido and the discipline is in line with what you should expect from a traditional martial art. It is not for everyone. This is not an easy style of Aikido. The physical demands of the art sometimes end up being more than some individuals wish to pursue. The discipline expectations of kids are sometimes more than many are accustomed to. But those who stay for a while with Aikido are transformed by it. Students are allowed to come and go without financial penalty or pressure. Many take breaks and are welcomed back when they are ready. It is a small student body of ages ranging from 8 to 55 years old. The facility is clean, but not fancy. They are working as a non-profit and putting all income back into the purchasing of excellent mats and flooring, training of instructors and bringing high-ranking teachers here for seminars. The dedication to the art of Aikido and what it can bring to a community is what this dojo is all about. Tuition is kept as low as possible and occasional scholarships are offered and funded by other students so that those who can't afford to train, can. If you want to train, but can't afford to, they will do everything they can to make it happen for sincere students. Donations are gladly accepted.

Dec 2012

I have been a student of Austad Sensei's for almost 3 years now. The school is run with respect and the needs of the students in mind -- balanced with the commitment to promote excellent quality Aikido. Don't confuse Iwama Aikido with other soft forms. Iwama Aikido is a tough martial art to learn and extremely practical. I have studied various martial arts for over 20 years. I have also studied and have enrolled my kids at 2 other Bismarck and Mandan schools over the past 5 years. The best quality martial art for the money is to be found at Aikido Bismarck.