Hikari Dojo – Aikido

Here’s my disclaimer:
I started in martial arts in April of 2001 with Jumonville Sensei, and I remain with him to this day. I plan to stay with him as long as we both can still train, because the teaching he imparts is, quite simply, extraordinary.
I have had the pleasure and privilege of meeting and training with Aikido instructors from around the world. We are, after all, a Community of dedicated individuals. There are some truly amazing Senseis out there, and I would never wish to compare. I will, however, say that at Hikari Dojo, we learn in a way that is traditional yet progressive, disciplined but fun, and group-​oriented while remaining very personalized.
It’s about as Yen and Yang as you can get!
For me personally, the benefits of Aikido have been tremendous. I’m no «spring chicken,» but I am more flexible and in better shape than I was 10 years ago, mentally as well as physically.
I should also mention that the kid’s class is wonderful. I am constantly amazed at how much fun they have while learning the beautiful movements, building confidence and developing the fundamentals of self-​defense.
If you’ve managed to read this far, you should probably consider coming in to check it out. You’re obviously interested in getting into a martial art. This just might be the one for you. Who knows? You just might be my new favorite training partner! I look forward to seeing you on the mat.
Tim P

First of all, a disclaimer of sorts … I am one of the long time students of Sensei Louis Jumonville. I have been training with him for over 10 years and have been enjoying every minute of it.
Louis Sensei is an incredible teacher. He is very detailed, yet sees the big picture. Sensei also finds time to spend with his students, during, before or after class to improve one’s technique. In addition, students, including myself, also have more senior students to provide others with guidance. Hikari Dojo provides a very supportive, safe, and friendly environment to train and make good friends.
Hikari Dojo has a beautiful space conveniently near freeway access. The mats are quite comfortable and clean. We have classes 5 – 6 days a week, allowing folks with challenging work schedules like me, to enjoy class when one can.
Lastly, in choosing aikido as a martial art over others: I have briefly practiced Judo and Tai Chi in the past, but Aikido is one that moves with me as I change through the years. I started practicing aikido as physical exercise, but through the years, as my body and psyche changed, I found that aikido is still as relevant. Hikari Dojo is a very traditional Japanese dojo — which means that your spiritual growth is equally important. Through the years, with aikido’s help, I connect and hear myself better, and I also connect and hear others better … but I still have a long way to go. Aikido is a journey, not a destination, as life itself should be. — Jem S-​W

Louis is a disciplined and energetic teacher. I haven’t been in a class for a while and am looking forward to returning to a more peaceful form of martial arts. The kickboxing with my crew has been fun, but I like the rolling and less aggressive movements I learned at this dojo.