Business Details
23 Years
experience
Martial Arts Dojo in Toronto | Aikido & Karate Classes
Founded in 2003, Naka Ima is a Toronto-based martial arts dojo dedicated to fostering physical, mental, and spiritual growth through Aikido and Shotokan Karate. Our practice emphasizes non-confrontational techniques, blending with energy to resolve conflict peacefully. With roots in the Aikido Isshinkai Association and guidance from Japan's Aikido World Headquarters, we offer classes for all ages starting at 10 years old. Our mission is to cultivate presence, community, and interconnectedness through dynamic movement and mindful focus.We prioritize accessibility, offering free trial classes and structured programs that cater to beginners and advanced practitioners alike. By integrating traditional principles with modern practice, we aim to empower individuals to achieve holistic well-being and apply martial arts philosophy to everyday life.
Services
Aikido Classes
Karate Classes
Aikido Weapons Class
Free Trial Class
Membership Fees
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Founded in 2003 with certified instructors from Japan's Aikido World Headquarters
- Offers non-confrontational martial arts focusing on energy harmonization
- Free trial classes available for all experience levels
- Community-driven approach emphasizing mindfulness and interconnectedness
- Structured programs for ages 10+ with progressive skill development
Associations and certifications
- Aikido Isshinkai Association
- Aikido World Headquarters
Services
Aikido Classes
Aikido classes focus on non-confrontational self-defense through energy harmonization. Participants develop physical fitness, stress relief, and mindfulness. Suitable for ages 10+ with progressive levels from beginner to advanced. Practice emphasizes partner-based techniques, circular motion, and centering principles.
Karate Classes
Shotokan Karate instruction follows traditional Japanese methods emphasizing character development. Classes build physical fitness, discipline, and self-control through structured kata and kumite training. Open to all ages with a focus on five guiding principles: character, sincerity, effort, etiquette, and self-control.
Aikido Weapons Class
Specialized Aikido sessions incorporating traditional weapons like bokken and jo. Teaches precision, timing, and spatial awareness while maintaining non-confrontational principles. Enhances understanding of Aikido movements through weapon-based applications and partner drills.
Free Trial Class
Complimentary trial classes allow prospective students to experience Aikido or Karate without commitment. Includes basic techniques, safety protocols, and equipment guidance. Designed for all fitness levels with no prior experience required, providing direct access to our community and teaching methods.
Membership Fees
Structured membership plans provide access to regular classes and special events. Includes annual seminars with international instructors from Japan. Membership benefits extend beyond physical training, offering community engagement opportunities and philosophical development aligned with Aikido's core principles.
People
Greg Angus
Founder
Greg Angus established Naka Ima in 2003 after receiving permission from Endo Shihan in Japan. He leads with traditional Aikido principles while adapting practices for modern Toronto communities. His teaching emphasizes presence, energy connection, and philosophical growth through martial arts.
Ramin Arvin
Co-Founder
Ramin Arvin co-founded Naka Ima with Greg Angus in 2004. He contributes to curriculum development and community building efforts. His approach combines technical precision with accessibility, ensuring martial arts remain approachable for all ages and experience levels.
Questions
What martial arts do you offer?
We offer Aikido and Shotokan Karate classes for ages 10+. Both programs emphasize physical fitness, mental discipline, and non-confrontational conflict resolution techniques.
Do I need prior experience to join?
No prior martial arts experience is required. Our free trial classes and beginner programs welcome all fitness levels with no prerequisites for starting.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothing like a t-shirt, long pants, and mask. We recommend athletic shoes for Karate and bare feet for Aikido during trial classes.
Where are you located?
Our dojo is at 2489 Dufferin St, Toronto, ON M6B 3P9, near Dufferin and Castlefield. Public transit accessible via 29 Dufferin bus routes.
What are your class schedules?
Aikido classes run Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Karate classes occur Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. Specific times range from 6 PM to 12:30 PM across different days.
What benefits does Aikido provide?
Aikido improves flexibility, stamina, and strength while offering stress relief. Our practice develops mental focus, presence, and peaceful conflict resolution skills applicable to daily life.
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Reviews (3)
Kimberly Daley
Jun 27, 2018
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A great place to head to after school. Great for all ages and all skill levels. Great place for children to be active and learn great skills and not just martial skills...teamwork, discipline, kindness, manners...and on and on!
Heather Lawrence-Monassa
Sep 16, 2015
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They are amazing with children! My 4 year old was asking me every morning when she could go to Aikido. The instructors have also inspired me and my husband to take up the martial art. Its a great and warm community.
Mark D.
Jan 16, 2012
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I have 26 years of martial arts experience, in a number of disciplines. I recently concluded a 3-month introductory membership at Naka Ima Aikido and found the instruction to be of the highest quality. The facility in Liberty Village is cozy, and most of the space is given over to the training floor. Those looking for extensive gym and fitness equipment will not find it here... those looking for excellent instruction in Aikido will, however, find that. I was also impressed by the calibre of visiting instructors in regular seminars.
