Great place to learn Aikido skills with knowledgeable instructor and extremely helpful students. Must at least try and see it for yourself!

Prior to visiting Genshinkan Dojo, I had no experience with martial arts. It is an art, and this dojo is full of a collective pride, pride that encourages individual shine. The people are pleasant and tough - introverts unite! - and creates a space that demands presence each movement Gary moves us through.This is worth a look if you are in the LES - positive vibes here. The first class is complementary too :)

Ive always been intrigued to study a martial art, but Ive never taken any type of formal training. I wanted to find the right one. Aikido was the best fit for me. The ideology of redirecting an attacker’s energy away from me without serious injury was what I was looking to learn however, I had reservations about starting not knowing what to expect. Honestly, the hardest part was getting myself to come to the first class but within the first 15 minutes I was hooked.From the moment I walked in the door I could sense there was something special about this place. It truly is a hidden gem in the middle of a bustling city. Everyone in the dojo is warm, instantly welcoming and happy to explain the practice. All the teachers have a very expansive knowledge-base and are wonderful at demonstrating and guiding students through each technique.Classes are open to all levels, which is great. Ive never thought oh, this class is too advanced, when is the beginners class. They teach you at your speed regardless of whoever else attends. The teachers reinforce proper etiquette, respect for everyone and how to practice Aikido in a safe and joyful way.I am grateful that Ive discovered this place. If youre looking to learn Aikido in NYC, this is THE dojo.

I have been a student of ZAM since they first opened their doors and the most redeeming quality about the school is the openness to beginners. They are extremely patient and everyone is really helpful. No experience is necessary and they just want everyone to enjoy themselves while maintaining a seriousness about the art. I would highly recommend this school to anyone in search of a martial art or a mental/spiritual path.

Ive been studying here since the school opened in 2013. Practicing here is a real privilege. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and highly focused. Deep respect for Martial tradition and the philosophy behind Aikido is strongly emphasized. The head instructor, Wagener Sensei, is highly experienced and gives individual attention to every student. Another striking feature of the schools environment is the lack of ego and competition. The students practice with great sincerity and joy. Anyone looking to study Martial Arts or self-defense in an encouraging setting in NYC should definitely not leave this school off their list.

I was brand new to aikido when I walked onto the mat. I didnt know what to expect, other than that my friend had a strong passion for it. The atmosphere on the mat reflects my sense of wonderment at the techniques, a dedication to learning, and a respect for the community youve joined. All the while having a bit of what you worry is too much of a good time smiling.

If you’re not into my long winded response: If you’re thinking about trying Aikido at all, come here and try it. Even if it’s just once. You’ll know if it’s the place for you. It just takes walking through the door and giving it a try.Before I walked in the door, I was scared to start something new. I was scared that I was too old, and all that. I was scared to look stupid. It took a long time, but one day I finally decided that it was time to get over those fears. They all seemed so silly the minute I stepped inside.Every student is there to help, and they make sure you feel that. The atmosphere of the dojo is friendly, supportive, encouraging and almost like a family. It’s inclusive of all kinds of people who are open to learning Aikido. Wagener Sensei and the other students are just wonderful people.My journey with Aikido started when I did it for a short period when I was 6 or 7 years old, but I didn’t remember much. I stopped by 8. I’m 21 how, and I didn’t think much of Aikido after I “stopped” (took a long break?) until my third year of college, where I’ve fallen in love with it. It’s an art, and I love learning it. I love how it flows, how simple but complex (and hard!) it is. I love the way it’s something people do together, a partnership, and I love the challenge. I love the life lessons it as to offer, and I love how beautiful it is.Genshinkan Dojo as a whole, as well as Wegener Sensei, are dedicated to the art, and the students. This place is a real find. I’m young so I guess I can know for sure, I don’t think something like this just exists very often in a lifetime. It’s a good fit for me. I can’t explain it. But I love my time at Genshinkan Dojo. It’s gone beyond Aikido, friendships, and all that. It’s learning how to breathe.All I know is that it’s right for me, because of the joy it brings. My words are all kind because it’s all I’ve felt from it. Wagener Sensei challenges me to push myself, and it’s something I’m very grateful for.And of course, lastly, there’s Wagener Sensei’s sense of humor, which is like Aikido to me. The joy it brings is unexplainable. Obviously, Aikido training is taken very seriously, but like I said before, if brings joy. But either way it’s a gem that you’d have to experience, rather than me saying anything about it.Bottom line, Aikido means so much to me and I’d never know if I never got over my fear and tried out a class all these years later.

Great atmosphere, great teachers, what more can you ask for!

Expect to find the best environment to learn this amazing martial art. Sensei Wagner (Teacher) has a very practical and forward thinking approach to teaching, grounded in the present and keeping it lean from the unnecessary, while staying true to the philosophy and tradition.In Aikido you learn from your Sensei (Teacher) as much as you learn from your fellow students and here you will find great people from all ranks. It doesnt matter who you practice with, you will learn something different and valuable every time you hit the mat.The Dojo is the one you can see in the pictures, nice, humble, always clean and tidy. However, here you will find that Aikido is a practice that goes beyond the physical aspect, and even beyond the walls of the dojo. You will come to understand that Aikido is a philosophy that touches every aspect of life, that what you learn on the mat can have a very positive influence over your perspective and over how you choose to live it.In short, in this Dojo you will find the essence of Aikido reflected in every aspect of it. So, if you are looking to practice a martial art based on Peace, Harmony and Compassion for the Mind, Body and Spirit, this is your place.Hope to see you on the mat!

Ive been attending classes at Zenshinkai for the last three months and I absolutely love it. Over the years, Id tried various martial arts and yoga schools, but never really found a practice that I connected with and wanted to do on an ongoing basis.That all changed the first time I came to Zenshinkai. I immediately felt welcomed by the warm atmosphere. Time flies by in every class and I always leave with a big smile on my face.Much more than exercise or self-defense, the school is also about with helping you develop as a person. After attending my first class, I expected to be hit with a big pitch to join and buy a karate uniform. Instead they told me Dont worry about a uniform or joining for now. Just keep coming to class if you like it. Theres no contract or anything. If you like it and eventually decide you want to stick with it, its $100 a month. Twelve 2-hour classes per month of world-class, hands-on instruction for a hundred bucks is pretty much the best deal in Manhattan.Each class begins and ends with a brief quote from Aikidos founder, Morihei Ueshiba. This one is one of my favorites: Your heart is full of fertile seeds, waiting to sprout.If you have any interest, call them and set up a time to come in and try a class. You wont regret it.

This dojo has become a grounding force that has nurtured growth on multiple levels. The tilting and listing that can occur in daily life through the hustling and bustling and constant thoughts has been mediated through the experience of physical techniques, breathing exercises, and in the moment awareness philosophy; this is a Zen practice. The energy, charged with sincerity and purposefulness, from all, is an experience in and of itself. Aikido is intense as it is graceful; and though a Budo, gentle enough to facilitate a learn by doing approach, where anyone can jump in and participate. Highly recommended to all, from any walk of life. If you have been searching for something with a little more depth and still want to be able to push your mind and body, and quite probably your spirit, walk up the steps and come visit ZAM. And bring some sweats, you cant make a mistake, youll want to participate.

I started Aikido at the Zenshinkai dojo around 6 weeks ago and are very happy that I found this gem. Everyone is so supportive and patient and always willing to help. This is a group of great people and for me as a German it was an extra bonus to find 3 senior students that share my German language. I do like the meditative aspect combined with a good physical workout. There is so much to learn and Sensei Wagener is making it a joyful experience.

I have been attending this Dojo for almost 4 months. This is my first time to practice martial arts. Instructors and student are very warm, welcoming, and supportive.Particularly, I am a slow learner so that I always struggle to get Katas but everyone there is so patient to teach me. Once, I was the only person to not gain how to use Jo. I thought that okay and I would get it later. But, Sensei knew that I could not get it. So, Sensei showed the way and trained in person and meanwhile, the class was stopped for about 5 mins. I felt so bad to stop the class but I very appreciated the moment that sensei seriously took care of me and the other students cheered me up.Always the senseis and advanced students encourage students to practice different katas and look after student very well. I strongly recommend person who considers to start Aikido to take a trial class in Genshinkan dojo.Additionally, every class is serious but fun!

Before my first class at this dojo, I was on the fence about joining, heck, I was on the fence about committing aikido (versus other martial arts like Jujitsu, judo, karate etc.). I was only slightly curious about Aikido, but my first class here gave me a great essence of this art form. The teacher here is humble, light hearted and makes learning enjoyable. His students are warm, welcoming and very supportive to any newcomers.The teacher here does a great job incorporating the philosophy of aikido with the techniques we learn in the class. Along with self-defense, we are also taught how to harmonize with our physical and mental state, which I find to be extremely useful practice on and off the mat.

Im having a great experience here. Superb, vigorous and thoughtful training. The students are committed and the environment is friendly and open. Wagener Sensei teaches both the physical and spiritual. If you are looking for a martial art, you cannot go wrong with Aikido and this is a great dojo.

For ten years I wanted to learn Aikido. Not just any martial art. Aikido. The idea of transferring energy directed at you without having to be big or strong has always seemed like the ultimate way of defense. I did not have the means in my life to start until this year (I actually started on New Years Day) and I am so happy and grateful that I found this dojo with Wagener Sensei and the students here.Although there is much diversity among the students, everyone’s character is essentially the same: welcoming with warm hearts, without ego or judgement. The same is true of Wagener Sensei. He is a wonderful teacher and his sense of humor keeps classes fun and memorable. Wagener Sensei and the students have made my ten year delay in learning Aikido all worth it.I encourage you to come and watch or better yet, come for a trial class and see if this dojo is a fit. That’s how I started. Although I practiced Taekwondo as a child, you do not need to have any experience with martial arts to begin. You can try a class and see how you like Wagener Sensi and the students. There are no hidden or contract fees. If you have the means, begin now.

Genshinkan Dojo offers serious Aikido training in a warm and welcoming environment. While devoted to a rigorous and traditional martial art, this Dojo is infused with compassion and often filled with laugher. Wagener Sensei (Dojo-Cho / Chief Instructor), the other instructors, and their dedicated students have built a true community of practice and learning. I highly recommend.

I was sitting on the train one day and suddenly the thought of doing Aikido came to my mind.Then here I am finding myself here at the dojo every week, without any particular reasons, I simply just want to practice.What do I think of the dojo? Is this an ideal place for anyone whos looking for a place to start doing Aikido?Putting feelings into words, for me, is not really an easy work to do. I dont know how to describe that feelings inside me whenever I come to the dojo, the only thing I can really name is excitement . On Monday morning I long for Sunday, or Monday evening, or any other days of the week that Im sure that I can come for practicing. Then after class, I usually feel sore, great and mostly... relieved ;) .There at the dojo, Ive learnt many things, more than just Aikidos techniques, from not only sensei, but also everyone.In the end, whether the dojo is an ideal, suitable, and joyful choice for you or not. I think it all depends on you and yourself .

This dojo houses the most welcoming and supportive group of people, who treat you like family. The people here, while dedicated to training, will never make you feel bad in any way. None of them are that kind of people. They will take care of you and they will teach you. They will stick by you until you get it. On the mat, all anybody wishes for each other, is to learn the art as best as we can. Thats it. No competition. Just learning. This is a small dojo but is growing rapidly. I can actually see each of us getting better and better and stronger and stronger at each and every class.Most of the members show up to almost every single class, which is extremely encouraging. And even though I am still fairly new to the dojo, it is exciting for me to keep seeing even newer people also keep coming back to every class. I am excited for the growth of this dojo. I also find that most students here are very talented.Before each class, we set up the dojo by laying down the mats and wiping them down, and we put them away after each class. Oddly enough, I love this part of the class just as much as the training. It reminds me of Japan, where almost every days and deeds seem to begin and end with communal cleaning. I think it strengthens the bond between each of us and also with the dojo itself. I had missed that. But I can experience that here again. Honestly, I wouldnt want to learn budo without this.And the training done here is in every bit as authentic as any dojo in Japan, with strong emphasis in community building, personal connections, spiritual growth, and technical mastery. Our sensei, Wagener Sensei really understands the spirit of this art and the tradition, and it is so inspiring to study under someone who embodies these qualities. There is not even an ounce of fakery here. His teaching style is a perfect mixture of, kindness, humor, and toughness. And as with everybody else in this dojo, he really cares about each of us and will go out of his way to help anyone that could use it.This place is the epitome of what a good dojo should be. If you ever thought about starting Aikido, join us here. You will find yourself most welcome!

This is a great dojo--serious without being competitive. The focus is on technique and connection, both with your partner/opponent and with your own center and body. Watching Wagener Sensei and senior students demonstrate techniques is awe-inspiring. The method of teaching is different that Im used to from other schools, and I find it much more understandable. You watch the technique demonstrated, then you partner up and do it. So even as a total Aikido beginner I have an idea of why Im doing things and what Im aiming for. If you are looking to study Aikido, this is a true dojo driven by a love for the art and desire to impart knowledge, rather than ego or plans to make piles of money. Plus, its fun and the classes feel like a team rather than a competition. A real find!!

This school has two distinct elements that make this an excellent place to train.Wagener-sensei is knowledgeable yet humble - a combination that makes studying under him a pleasure.Classes themselves have a heavy etiquette component that may seem daunting at first, I found the etiquette refreshing since I know at all times what is expected of me.Instruction is serious yet lighthearted, a striking contradiction to find in any martial arts class. Youre never made to feel bad if you arent the best, and no one ever gives up on you if youre struggling.There is an air of seriousness to the way classes are conducted that may not be for everyone. However, people who are sincere in their training will find that they are taken seriously in turn. This seriousness comes from the fact that Aikido requires heavy amounts of concentration and focus. Most martial arts do - and aikido is possibly the most unforgiving when it comes to mental lapses.Lastly, the other students. The first thing I noticed is that a large percentage of students take *every* class. Mo, We, Su. I then learned that for the lions share of students at Genshinkan, Aikido is a sincere passion. There is a focus and love for the school and the style that is not accidental. There is a sincere culture of respect here for everyone. Students are always welcoming and everyone wants to help.Genshinkan is an extremely unique dojo, and I am incredibly happy to be a part of it.

I recently began practicing Aikido at Zenshinkai Aikido of Manhattan, and attending class has quickly become one of my favorite parts of the week! Everyone who practices at the dojo is very welcoming and helps make beginners feel comfortable learning in a judgment-free environment. Classes are run very traditionally, emphasizing etiquette and respect for the art form, which I can relate to very well as a classically trained dancer.Its also wonderful to practice in a school that incorporates Zen meditation. Life in New York City can get so crazy, its nice to balance it out with such a rewarding routine.Because it is a small school (about 25 students), the instructors are able to give corrections to all the students. Wagener Sensei, the head instructor, is very invested in every students development. While the atmosphere is very focused throughout class, everyone is encouraged to practice with joy and take good care of each other.What really spoke to me from the very start is how much importance is laid on the connection between the philosophy of Aikido and the physical techniques involved. Class isnt just about learning movements for self-defense purposes. The spirit of harmony and compassion in Aikido is always a major component of the instruction.Im so happy to be practicing at such a wonderful school!

I was recommended to the school by a coworker who has been attending the school since the beginning. I was unsure what to expect having never taken any form of martial arts previously, but was excited about the opportunity. I have now been a member of the ZAM for two months and have enjoyed every second of it.The atmosphere in the dojo makes every class unique and a valuable opportunity to learn from sensei and the other aikidoka. The spirit of each student willing to help another learn and grow is admirable. There is a mutual respect among all students--regardless of time spent on the mat.

About a month ago, I took my first class here and havent been able to stay away from the dojo since. Even packing my gi in the morning (on Mondays and Wednesdays) puts me in a good mood for the rest of the day because it means I have an awesome 2 hours to look forward to in the evening.The best part of this dojo is the community. Since classes arent separated by rank, everyone gets to practice with everyone, regardless of experience, and Wagener Sensei makes it work seamlessly. Ive been blown away by how supportive and humble the advanced students have been with me, and I feel like Ive already learned so much from being around them.While there is tremendous diversity within the dojo (in terms of age/career background/nationality, etc.) which make for awesome conversations before/after class, I always feel a liberating sense of wiping the slate clean so to speak, once the class begins. For the span of two hours, we are simply aikidoka sincerely enjoying and learning the art of aikido. Nothing more, nothing less.

I have been coming to the dojo for a month. I am having so much fun here!Everyone is super friendly and always willing to help. Also, because of the Aikido culture, everyone in the dojo is humble, and not coming here for fight you.Im a slow learner, but it is fine here. Sensei and other students help me all the time with lots of patience.I didnt think I would be keep coming to the dojo, because the dojo is super far away from where I live, and Sundays classes are super early. However, nothing is a problem any more because I love practicing Aikido with these lovely people so much!

Zenshinkai is a gem. With such a warm, welcoming environment, its impossible not to have a great experience. Whether its your first time, or youve been practicing aikido for years, Wagener Sensei conducts classes with respect and compassion. Im definitely a happier person since making Zenshinkai my home dojo.

I was recommended by a friend to try out Aikido at Zenshinkai. I have practiced and experienced other martial arts before, but I was a complete beginner to Aikido. I was excited but also anxious for the first class. Upon entering the dojo, any feeling of anxiousness that I had before completely dissipated. I was greeted by two students of the dojo. They were extremely warm and welcoming and more than willing to answer any questions I had. Every student I was paired with throughout my first class was extremely patient and very helpful. Wagener Sensei walked the room and would step in and help everyone while they were practicing. I took notice that the atmosphere of the class was extremely peaceful, and contained no edge of competitiveness. I thoroughly enjoyed my first class and when it ended my first thought was I cant wait to come back! I have been at the dojo for a month now and feel extremely privileged to be able to practice with such dedicated, and compassionate individuals. If you have been searching for a martial arts school, or want to try something new, I strongly recommend this school.

I started coming to ZAM about two months ago. Id never done any kind of martial art before, but had always wanted to try. Id been searching for a while for a dojo, but had never found one that felt right.Basically as soon as I walked in, I noticed the atmosphere - friendly, relaxed, and welcoming. The guys and girls (yes, the dojo is roughly 50% women!!) I met are all very kind and eager to share the art of Aikido. Ive found that its a wonderful place to learn and to make mistakes, as everyone is very supportive and will help walk you through the tricky movements, no matter if they are an instructor, high ranking student, or a fellow beginner.Though everyone is so friendly and there may be a lot of joking around in the downtime before or after class, the actual instruction and practice is taken very seriously. Proper etiquette is emphasized, as is the real risk of injury that comes with improperly performed technique. Wagener Sensei will often remind the students to take care of each other, as overly eager or overly aggressive movements might result in injury. There is a great respect for the art and for those who practice it in the dojo.Aikido itself is a challenging discipline. The challenge doesnt come from competition, as Aikido is not about besting or defeating an opponent. It comes from learning to link your mind and body through movement and breath... while someone is coming at you. Aikido is as much a challenge for the mind as it is for the body. I have found that increasingly its principles and theories are blending over into my non-dojo life; I am more patient but more confident, for starters.Wagener Sensei has created a supportive and caring, but at the same time, serious and hard-working community. I consider myself very lucky to have found this dojo.

I cant say enough good things about this dojo!Wagener Sensei is incredibly knowledgable, kind, generous, positive and clearly passionate about aikido. He made me feel so welcomed and his good energy is also present in all the students that attend.Everyone at ZAM makes it easy to learn and really encourages you to do your best without creating a competitive environment. You will learn a lot about yourself and get a really great workout.If you are thinking of trying out aikido, I cant recommend a better place.Do yourself a favor and sign up today!!!

I was looking to get into Zen when a friend advised me to consider Aikido instead. It was a surprising suggestion taking into account that Aikido is a martial art. But when I discovered that Aikido literally translates to the way of harmonious spirit, I was really intrigued to find out more about it. I didn’t have much prior experience with any martial art and in-fact Zenshinkai Aikido of Manhattan was the first (and last) school I visited, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.Even before entering the dojo, I was welcomed by some of the students and was given the option of observing or participating in the class. I decided to participate and time just flew by in those 2 hours! The instructor, Wagener Sensei, took time to explain the basic techniques to me and the other two visitors. He also took time at the end of the class to demonstrate some of the more advanced techniques; it gave us a great idea of what Aikido looks like. Also, all the students here took extremely good care of me and the other beginners.My friend had initially suggested me to look out for two things when picking a school:1) The school should teach the art the traditional way (instead of being commercially driven)2) The instructors should display personal interest in the growth of each studentEarly on in the class, Wagener Sensei mentioned that the school is run in accordance with the tradition and etiquette followed by the Hombu Dojo in Tokyo. This was clearly visible in the class. Point #1: check!Throughout the class, Wagener Sensei gave each student improvement suggestions (including us visitors!) in a very patient manner. After the class ended, he and many of the students came around and asked me about my experience and if I had any questions about the school and Aikido in general. Point #2: check!Needless to say, I signed up right away and have been practicing here since. I’m surprised how Aikido has been making an amazing difference in my outlook towards life. The philosophy of creating harmony and compassion that underlies the art is a major draw that keeps me coming back. Also, what really speaks to me about Aikido is the grace and power of the movements. The fact that all the students take genuine interest in supporting each others development creates a very special and focused atmosphere, particularly in a city as fast-paced as New York. As the name of the school suggests, it embodies Zen meditation as a part of practice. So there is a lot of focus on the holistic development of the students.To conclude, anyone seeking to explore the connection between mind, body, and spirit in an exciting way will feel right at home here.